Pity

Definition

Pity primarily denotes a feeling of compassion and sorrow for someone's misfortune, but can also be used as a verb to express such feelings.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɪti/
• Respelling: PIT-ee (with "PIT" as in "pit," and "ee" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɪti/
• Respelling: PIT-ee (similar to American English, with "PIT" as in "pit," and "ee" as in "see")

In both dialects, "pity" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "PIT." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of the short "i" sound in "PIT" followed by the "ee" sound.

Etymology

The term "pity" originates from Old French "pitie" and from Latin "pietas" meaning faithfulness, loyalty, duty, and divine duty. The sense of "compassion for another's suffering" emerges in late Old English.

Derivatives

• Piteous
• Pitiable
• Pitying
• Piteously
• Pitiless

Synonyms

• Compassion
• Sympathy
• Empathy

Antonyms

• Indifference
• Cruelty
• Heartlessness

Usage

"Pity" is employed to express feelings of compassion, usually towards someone in a less fortunate situation. While it's predominantly used in a sincere and empathetic context, it can also be utilized sarcastically to indicate the trivial nature of a complaint or problem.

Related Terms

• Mercy
• Leniency
• Understanding
• Kind-heartedness
• Tenderness

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A feeling of sorrow and compassion for the suffering or misfortune of others.
• Example: "They had great pity for the victims of the disaster."

• A cause for regret or disappointment.
• Example: "It's a pity she can't attend the event."

Verb

• To feel sorrow and compassion for due to their suffering or misfortune.
• Example: "She pitied him for his loss."

• To regard with compassion, to have sympathy with.
• Example: "He does not deserve to be pitied, yet I still pity him."

• To make an object of pity; to treat with contempt.
• Example: "You pity the very people who mock you."