Definitions

empathy

[em-puh-thee] / ˈɛm pə θi /

NOUN

understanding

Synonyms

STRONGEST

affinity compassion identification insight pity rapport understanding warmth

STRONG

concord responsiveness soul sympathy

WEAK

being on same wavelength being there for someone good vibrations hitting it off

Antonyms

STRONGEST

incompatibility indifference insensitivity mercilessness unfeelingness

STRONG

disagreement disdain disunity hatred

WEAK

apathy discord misunderstanding

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Empathy for the four million people from all walks of life who have chosen to build their lives in this unusual city?

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 2026

Empathy is the bedrock of what it means to have a society.

From Slate • Jan. 9, 2026

Empathy is often confused with sympathy, which is more about feeling without sharing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 21, 2025

Empathy connects us to others in the hope of creating something bigger and better.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 16, 2025

Empathy isn’t as hard as it sounds because people have a lot of the same feelings.

From "Mockingbird" by Kathryn Erskine

Vocabulary lists containing empathy

100 Top "SAT" Words

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Giving Words

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Advanced English Words

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!