sympathetic remarks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sympathetic remarks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing understanding or compassion towards someone's situation or feelings. Example: "After hearing about her loss, I offered her some sympathetic remarks to show my support during this difficult time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The cyclist was sympathetic.

The New Yorker

And yet he can startle all-white Republican audiences full of women in pearls with sympathetic remarks about Mexican immigrants.

The New York Times

Ms. Dunst won for her role in the end-of-the-world tale "Melancholia," whose director, Denmark's Lars von Trier, was banned from the festival after sympathetic remarks for Adolf Hitler at a news conference.

The New York Times

Though Egypt at the time rejected the widespread condemnation of the verdict as interference in its internal affairs, Sisi, now president, has since made sympathetic remarks about the imprisoned journalists, saying he wished they had been deported and not put on trial.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The most sympathetic remark about California was made by a senator from North Dakota who said, at one point, "I think they're still part of the union".

The New York Times

And then the young doctor to his left made a passing but sympathetic remark about Howard Dean, the 2004 Presidential candidate; she said that he had been unfairly treated in the American media.

The New Yorker

When Liz puts on a sympathetic tone and remarks that being a famous actress must have its drawbacks, Davis says that being a nobody has its drawbacks.

The New York Times

Lynch and the Patrolmen's Benevolent Association have quickly developed a fraught relationship with de Blasio, whose support for court-issued NYPD reforms and remarks sympathetic to racially-charged policing have been deemed betrayal.

Vice

One of Gillilan's specialties was light verse, and a sympathetic reader will remark on how the poem, brief as it is, formally does what good light verse typically does: with its unlikely rhyme, it smoothes seeming clumsiness ("Had 'em") into antic dexterity.

The New Yorker

It was unfunny, offensive and as meanspirited as Mr. Foxworthy's monologue remarks can be sympathetic.

The New York Times - Arts

The new head of Labour policy, Jon Cruddas, is likely to be sympathetic to many of these remarks.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sympathetic remarks", ensure the context genuinely calls for empathy and understanding. Avoid using it sarcastically or insincerely.

Common error

Avoid using "sympathetic remarks" in situations that require objective feedback or critical analysis. It's best suited for scenarios involving emotional support.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "sympathetic remarks" is to act as a noun phrase, where 'sympathetic' modifies 'remarks'. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with multiple examples showing it describing the nature of comments made.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sympathetic remarks" is a noun phrase used to describe comments expressing empathy and understanding. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and well-suited for contexts where showing compassion is important, particularly in news and media. While not overly common, its usage is straightforward, and its meaning is consistently understood. When writing, ensure that the use of "sympathetic remarks" aligns with the context's need for genuine empathy and avoid using it sarcastically or inappropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compassionate statements

Emphasizes the feeling of compassion behind the words.

empathetic comments

Focuses on the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

understanding words

Highlights the comprehension and acceptance conveyed.

supportive comments

Indicates remarks that offer encouragement and help.

kind words

Stresses the gentle and benevolent nature of the remarks.

comforting words

Focuses on the ability of the remarks to ease distress.

reassuring statements

Highlights the aspect of providing confidence and security.

favorable remarks

Implies approval or positive opinion.

agreeable comments

Indicates remarks that show agreement or consensus.

well-wishing words

Expresses good wishes and positive intent.

FAQs

How can I use "sympathetic remarks" in a sentence?

You can use "sympathetic remarks" to describe comments that show understanding and compassion for someone's situation. For example, "After hearing about her challenges, he offered some "sympathetic remarks" to show his support."

What are some alternatives to "sympathetic remarks"?

Alternatives include "compassionate statements", "empathetic comments", or "understanding words", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "sympathetic remarks" in a formal setting?

Yes, "sympathetic remarks" can be appropriate in formal settings where showing empathy is necessary, such as addressing someone's personal challenges or acknowledging a difficult situation. However, ensure the tone remains professional and sincere.

What is the difference between "sympathetic remarks" and "supportive comments"?

"Sympathetic remarks" focus on understanding and sharing someone's feelings, while "supportive comments" emphasize providing encouragement and help. The former is more about emotional connection, while the latter is about offering assistance.