Basic Details
Word: Sympathetic
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Showing kindness and understanding towards someone else's feelings or problems.
Synonyms: Caring, compassionate, understanding
Antonyms: Unsympathetic, indifferent, unfeeling
Idioms and Phrases
- Sympathetic ear: Someone who listens to your problems or worries with understanding. Example: "Whenever I'm feeling down, I know I can count on her to offer a sympathetic ear."
- In someone's shoes: To understand or empathise with someone by imagining oneself in their situation. Example: "Before you judge him, try to see things from his perspective and put yourself in his shoes."
Usage Examples
Example 1: After hearing about her friend's loss, she offered a sympathetic hug to show her support.
Example 2: The teacher was sympathetic towards the students who were struggling with the difficult topic.
Example 3: He shared his worries with a sympathetic colleague, who listened attentively.
Fun Fact
The word "sympathetic" comes from the Greek word "sympatheia," which means "having a common feeling." This reflects the idea that when we are sympathetic, we are sharing or understanding another person's emotional experience.
Famous Quote
"Whenever you are about to find fault with someone, ask yourself the following question: What fault of mine most nearly resembles the one I am about to criticize?" Marcus Aurelius
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "sympathetic" mean?
a) Not caring
b) Showing kindness and understanding
c) Feeling happy all the time
d) Ignoring others
Answer: b) Showing kindness and understanding
2. Which of these is a synonym of "sympathetic"?
a) Unsympathetic
b) Indifferent
c) Compassionate
d) Unfeeling
Answer: c) Compassionate
3. Which word is an antonym of "sympathetic"?
a) Warm-hearted
b) Caring
c) Indifferent
d) Understanding
Answer: c) Indifferent
4. Which sentence uses "sympathetic" correctly?
a) Her sympathetic nature helped her to connect with others.
b) The sympathetic dog barked at the mailman.
c) The sympathetic clock kept perfect time.
d) The sympathetic book was very entertaining.
Answer: a) Her sympathetic nature helped her to connect with others.
5. What does "having a sympathetic ear" mean?
a) Someone who listens carefully to your problems.
b) Someone who ignores what you say.
c) Someone who talks a lot.
d) Someone who is always happy.
Answer: a) Someone who listens carefully to your problems.
