Basic Details
Word: Empathy
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person.
Synonyms: Compassion, understanding, sympathy
Antonyms: Indifference, apathy, insensitivity
Idioms and Phrases
- Walk a mile in someone else's shoes: To understand someone's situation or feelings by imagining oneself in their position. Example: "Before judging him, remember to walk a mile in someone else's shoes; he's going through a tough time."
- Have a heart: To show kindness and compassion for someone in need. Example: "She really had a heart when she decided to help the homeless shelter."
Usage Examples
Example 1: It takes a lot of empathy to truly understand what your friend is feeling when they are sad.
Example 2: The teacher showed great empathy towards her students, always willing to listen to their concerns.
Example 3: Empathy can help bridge the gap between people and create stronger friendships.
Fun Fact
Did you know that empathy is not only important for human relationships but can also be seen in some animals? For example, elephants have been observed comforting each other in distress, showing empathy towards their fellow herd members.
Famous Quote
"Whenever you feel like criticising any one... just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that youve had." F. Scott Fitzgerald
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "empathy" mean?
a) Complete indifference
b) Understanding the feelings of others
c) Being selfish
d) Ignoring other people's emotions
Answer: b) Understanding the feelings of others
2. Which of these is a synonym of "empathy"?
a) Indifference
b) Sympathy
c) Apathy
d) Disinterest
Answer: b) Sympathy
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "empathy"?
a) Understanding
b) Compassion
c) Insensitivity
d) Care
Answer: c) Insensitivity
4. Which sentence uses "empathy" correctly?
a) His empathy towards others made him a great friend.
b) The empathy ran quickly to the shop.
c) She found empathy under the bed.
d) He painted a wonderful empathy in art class.
Answer: a) His empathy towards others made him a great friend.
5. Which idiom refers to understanding another person's feelings?
a) Walk a mile in someone else's shoes
b) Have a heart
c) Both a and b
d) None of the above
Answer: c) Both a and b
