take pity on

USAGE SUMMARY

"take pity on" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express sympathy or compassion for someone in a difficult situation. For example, "We should take pity on the victims of the storm and do what we can to help them rebuild their lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Others, and I was one, take pity on a tomato bleeding under a light, short and dull blade and reach for ever heavier, longer, sharper knives.

The New York Times - Magazine

I headed to Soldier Field, hoping a peaceful, loving Deadhead would take pity on me and sell me one.

Huffington Post

"Take pity on these children".

The New Yorker

"Take pity on this nation," he said.

The New Yorker

Take pity on your pal precisely once.

The New York Times

Ilia: Take pity on me.

The Guardian - Music

Take pity on our foreign policy wonks.

The New York Times - Books

Sometimes flight attendants take pity on me.

The New York Times

It's in everyone's interest to take pity on these creatures.

The New York Times - Books

I want to step back, to take pity on Ward.

The New York Times - Books

He did not take pity on his mentor, Patrick Ewing.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take pity on" when you want to express a sense of compassion or leniency towards someone or something facing hardship. For instance, "We should take pity on those affected by the economic downturn and offer support."

Common error

Avoid using "take pity on" in a way that suggests superiority or condescension. Ensure the context reflects genuine empathy rather than a patronizing attitude. For instance, saying "I take pity on you because you're not as successful as me" is inappropriate and conveys arrogance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take pity on" functions as a verb phrase expressing compassion or leniency towards someone or something. It signifies a decision to show mercy or offer help due to the unfortunate circumstances of the subject. Ludwig provides examples from various contexts demonstrating its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Wiki

10%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take pity on" is a widely recognized and grammatically sound phrase used to express compassion or leniency. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples of its usage across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While generally neutral in register, it's important to avoid using it condescendingly. Consider alternatives like "show compassion for" or ""have mercy on"" for more formal situations, and be mindful of the potential for misinterpreting pity as condescension. Remember that the goal is to convey genuine empathy and support.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feel sorry for

Expresses sadness and sympathy for someone's situation.

show compassion for

Focuses on demonstrating empathy and understanding.

be sympathetic to

Highlights an understanding and sharing of feelings.

have mercy on

Implies a power dynamic and a decision to withhold punishment.

empathize with

Highlights the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

offer solace to

Suggests providing comfort or consolation.

extend grace to

Suggests forgiveness or leniency.

be charitable towards

Implies generosity and kindness in response to someone's need.

lend a helping hand to

Emphasizes the act of providing assistance.

comfort

Focuses on easing someone's distress.

FAQs

How can I use "take pity on" in a sentence?

You can use "take pity on" to express compassion or leniency towards someone or something. For example, "The teacher decided to "have mercy on" the students and extended the deadline" or "We should "feel sorry for" the animals affected by the forest fire and provide them with aid."

What's a more formal way to say "take pity on"?

More formal alternatives to "take pity on" include "show compassion for", "exercise leniency towards", or "extend mercy to". These options are suitable for professional or academic contexts.

When is it inappropriate to use "take pity on"?

It's inappropriate to use "take pity on" when the situation calls for respect, admiration, or encouragement rather than sympathy. Avoid using it in contexts where it might sound condescending or patronizing.

What is the difference between "take pity on" and ""feel sorry for""?

"Take pity on" often implies a willingness to help or show leniency, whereas ""feel sorry for"" primarily expresses sympathy or sadness about someone's situation. "Take pity on" suggests action, while ""feel sorry for"" is more passive.