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日本語
sympathy in Japanese: 同情
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Guess the translation for
sympathy
胃
家具
法案
ソース
同情
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neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers use 同情 in various contexts, particularly when discussing personal emotions or shared experiences. For instance, during a conversation about a friend going through a tough time, someone might express their 同情 by saying they understand their feelings. It is also commonly used in media, such as news reports, when covering stories of tragedy or hardship, conveying a sense of collective empathy.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for 同情 is 共感 (kyoukan), which means 'empathy.' While 同情 tends to imply a more passive feeling of compassion, 共感 conveys a deeper, more active understanding of another's emotions. You would choose 同情 when expressing sympathy towards someone’s situation, whereas 共感 is more appropriate when you can relate personally to their feelings.
Culture
The word 同情 (doujou) is derived from two kanji: 同 (same) and 情 (emotion), literally meaning 'same emotion.' This reflects a deep-rooted cultural emphasis on empathy and community in Japan, where showing understanding for others' feelings is a valued trait. Interestingly, in Japanese culture, expressing 同情 can be seen as both an acknowledgment of someone's pain and an invitation for connection.
FAQ
