we are sympathetic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are sympathetic" 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 struggles, we are sympathetic to her situation and want to offer our support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

And we are sympathetic because she is frail and vulnerable.

The New Yorker

"We understand their position, and we are sympathetic with them.

The New York Times

Though we are sympathetic to this moral argument, this Article takes a different approach.

Harvard University

As a result, we are sympathetic to the desire to strengthen our nation's security processes.

The Washington Post

"We are sympathetic to the demands placed on a modern banking chief executive.

The Guardian - Business

We are sympathetic to the very difficult situation of the contractor in the article.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

"Then we got a boatload of mail from Democrats saying that we were sympathetic to Republicans".

The New York Times

"We're sympathetic to Mr. Horan and his family, but we just believe this case is without merit," he said.

The New York Times

In "The Sopranos," we were in therapy; in "Significant Others," we're sympathetic witnesses to the ridiculousness of it all.

The New Yorker

So we're sympathetic to anyone who's trying to get at the truth and punish the guilty parties.

The New York Times

Aoyama can't help but evoke ambivalence; though we're sympathetic to his plight, he has done the wrong thing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Tailor your expression of sympathy to the specific situation and relationship with the person involved. A formal setting may require a more measured response than a casual conversation.

Common error

Avoid using "we are sympathetic" as a mere formality without genuine empathy. Ensure your words are backed by sincere understanding and a willingness to help if possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are sympathetic" functions as an expression of empathy or understanding towards someone's situation or feelings. As Ludwig AI exemplifies, it's often used to acknowledge difficulties and show compassion. It's a straightforward way to convey that you recognize and understand someone's distress.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are sympathetic" serves as a clear and common expression of understanding and compassion. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and well-suited for various situations, particularly in news, academic, and business contexts. While it's a standard way to show empathy, remember that genuineness and sincerity are essential for it to be effective. Alternatives like "we understand" or "we empathize" offer slightly different nuances, but the key is to ensure your words are supported by actions that demonstrate genuine care and support.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we empathize

Highlights a shared feeling or understanding of someone else's emotions.

we understand

Expresses comprehension rather than necessarily feeling the same emotions.

we feel for you

Emphasizes the emotional connection and shared suffering.

our hearts go out to you

A more emotional and heartfelt expression of sympathy.

we share your sorrow

Specifically addresses shared grief or sadness.

we are saddened by

Highlights the speaker's feeling of sadness in response to a situation.

we are concerned

Focuses on worry and apprehension regarding someone's situation.

we acknowledge your pain

Formally recognizes and validates the other person's suffering.

we are mindful of

Highlights awareness and consideration of someone's situation.

we are aware of

Indicates knowledge of a difficult situation without necessarily implying an emotional connection.

FAQs

How can I use "we are sympathetic" in a sentence?

You can use "we are sympathetic" to express understanding or compassion, such as, "We are sympathetic to the challenges you face during this difficult time."

What's a more formal alternative to "we are sympathetic"?

In a formal context, you might say "we empathize with your situation" or "we express our understanding of the difficulties". Consider also "we acknowledge your pain".

How does "we are sympathetic" differ from "we are empathetic"?

"We are sympathetic" implies understanding and concern for someone's situation, while "we are empathetic" suggests a deeper, shared feeling of their emotions. Empathy involves feeling what another person is feeling.

Can "we are sympathetic" be used in a business context?

Yes, but use it judiciously. For example, "We are sympathetic to the impact this disruption has on your operations and are working to resolve it quickly." Be mindful of sincerity.