pity - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
pity Word Meanings
- a feeling of sorrow for someone else's misfortune
- to feel sympathy for someone
- to regard with compassion or sadness
pity Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
pity Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpɪti/
US
/ˈpɪti/
pity Word Etymology
The word 'pity' breaks down to 'pit' (a sense of sadness) + '-y' (adjective-forming suffix). It originates from Latin 'pietas' meaning piety or duty, passing through Old French before entering English. Imagine a person with a heavy heart witnessing a friend in trouble, feeling that deep well of sadness.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I pause and set my coffee down, then lean toward a friend who is hobbling after a long run. I watch the corner of their mouth flicker back to a smile but their step keeps faltering, and I shift my gaze to a steady, quiet presence. A soft weight rises in my chest, a feeling of pity that doesn’t pull them up but nudges me to stand by and listen. I hold the space between us, let the moment guide what I offer next time.
Real Context
Pity is a feeling of sorrow or sympathy for someone else’s misfortune. It sits between mild sadness and compassion, and it can carry a hint of distance or judgment, unlike the warmer sense of sympathy or empathy. You can say 'pity for someone' or 'pity someone for' regularly: 'She felt pity for the lost dog' or 'I pity him for his mistake.' The verb form 'to pity' is common, though in some contexts it can sound condescending, especially if you say 'I pity you' to someone in trouble. The adjective 'pitiable' describes something that arouses pity. In everyday speech, many people prefer 'sympathy' or 'compassion' when they want to express care without a negative edge.
Usage Reminders
- - Pity is a feeling, not an action.
- - Use with 'for' or 'of': pity for someone, pity someone.
- - It can be mild or condescending depending on tone.
- - Distinguish pity from sympathy and compassion.
- - 'Pitiable' describes something arousing pity.
Common Misconceptions
- Pity and sympathy are the same; they are not.
- Saying 'I pity you' always comes across as insulting.
- Pity means you admire the person’s strength; it doesn’t.
- Pity is never used with people you know well.
- Pity and self-pity are the same idea.
Thinking Differences
Pity in English often carries a subtle distance or condescension, which can confuse learners who want warmth or support.
Learning Tips
- Identify the subtle difference between pity, sympathy, and compassion.
- Note that pity can feel distant or condescending in some contexts.
- Use 'pity for' someone or 'pity someone' rather than overusing it.
- Learn related forms: pitiable, pitiful, pitying.
- Avoid using pity about yourself; use self-pity to describe excessive self-complaint.
- Practice with varied contexts to hear natural tone.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'pity'?
A.Joy
B.Anger
C.Sympathy
D.Confusion
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'pity' used correctly?
A.She laughed at him with pity.
B.She looked at him with pity as he struggled.
C.She admired him with pity.
D.She ignored him with pity.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'pity'?
A.Contempt
B.Happiness
C.Empathy
D.Jealousy
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'pity'?
A.Resentment
B.Compassion
C.Indifference
D.Spite
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'pity' in a real-life situation?
A.Showing off to attract attention.
B.Laughing at someone's misfortune.
C.Ignoring a homeless person on the street.
D.Expressing sympathy towards a friend who failed an exam.
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