compassion
Definitions
Deep sympathy for the suffering of others, together with a desire to help
同情心，怜悯（并希望帮助）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedcom- (together) + pass (suffer) + -ion (state) = 'suffering together with' someone. This is the Latin-built twin of the Greek-built sympathy (syn- + pathos). Compassion leans more toward mercy and a wish to relieve the suffering.
Root path still carries 58 more wordsWhy It Means This
Compassion and sympathy are the same word built in two languages: Latin com- + pati ('suffer with') mirrors Greek syn- + pathos. The difference English keeps is tone. Sympathy can be a passing feeling; compassion is deeper and tends toward action — 'have compassion on someone' implies you'll do something to ease their pain.
Common Collocations
- 1.deep compassion深深的同情
- 2.have compassion for对...表示同情
Example Sentences
- 1.
She treated even her enemies with compassion.
- 2.
The judge showed compassion and reduced the sentence.
- 3.
He felt a wave of compassion for the stranded travelers.