sympathize
UK: /ˈsɪm.pə.θaɪz/ | US: /ˈsɪm.pə.θaɪz/
vi. to feel or express compassion or sorrow for someone’s suffering
vi. to agree with or support an idea, opinion, or cause
sympathize = sym<together> + path<feeling> + ize<verb suffix>
- sym<together>: From Greek syn- (with, together), indicating shared experience.
- path<feeling>: From Greek pathos (suffering, emotion), denoting emotional connection.
- ize<verb suffix>: A productive English suffix forming verbs meaning "to make or become."
Etymology Origin:
The word sympathize originates from Greek sympatheia (shared feeling), combining syn- (together) and pathos (emotion). It entered English via Late Latin sympathizare, evolving to mean "to share another’s emotions." The suffix -ize was added in Early Modern English to verbalize the concept, reflecting a linguistic trend of forming action-oriented terms. The logic mirrors physical resonance (e.g., vibrating strings) metaphorically extended to emotional harmony.
She could sympathize with his struggles after experiencing similar hardships.
Many voters sympathize with the environmental movement’s goals.
Though he disagreed, he tried to sympathize with her perspective.
The novel’s protagonist sympathizes deeply with the oppressed.
Doctors must learn to sympathize without becoming emotionally overwhelmed.