1
as in benevolent
having or marked by sympathy and consideration for others
a compassionate person by nature
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in sympathetic
having or showing the capacity for sharing the feelings of another
a compassionate smile made the refugees feel a little better
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in to pity
to have sympathy for
a gentle soul who could compassionate even the most reprobate of scoundrels and villains
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of compassionate
Zach Helfand, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026
The family of a West Chester University student killed in a weekend crash is remembering him as a compassionate young man who always put others first.
—Madeleine Wright, CBS News, 15 Apr. 2026
Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 27 Aug. 2025
Yet while 67% of white people who are eligible for PrEP are on it, only 8% eligible Black people are, often citing lack of access to healthcare or to compassionate healthcare.
—Annalisa Merelli, Quartz, 20 Apr. 2023
See All Example Sentences for compassionate
Adjective
Cole recollected that Linda seemed compassionate.
—Zach Helfand, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026
The family of a West Chester University student killed in a weekend crash is remembering him as a compassionate young man who always put others first.
—Madeleine Wright, CBS News, 15 Apr. 2026
Verb
The solution is to shift from empathy to compassionate accountability: Instead of feeling with the person, focus on walking beside them while holding the line.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 27 Aug. 2025
Yet while 67% of white people who are eligible for PrEP are on it, only 8% eligible Black people are, often citing lack of access to healthcare or to compassionate healthcare.
—Annalisa Merelli, Quartz, 20 Apr. 2023
See All Example Sentences for compassionate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compassionate
Adjective
-
But statement that seems so benevolent can be anything but.—
Kathy and Ross Petrass,
CNBC,
24 Apr. 2026
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With the eventual blessing of his benevolent landlords, Grattan has completely transformed the rental unit— widening doorways, upgrading electrical systems, and reimagining every wall and ceiling.—
Sam Cochran,
Architectural Digest,
15 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
Bahrain revoked citizenship from 69 individuals accused of being sympathetic to Iran.—
Dominic Dudley,
semafor.com,
28 Apr. 2026
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Several justices seemed sympathetic to the company’s argument that it can’t be sued under state law because federal regulators have found Roundup likely doesn’t cause cancer.—
ABC News,
ABC News,
27 Apr. 2026
Verb
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Or, even better, don’t pity Carlson.—
David A. Graham,
The Atlantic,
23 Apr. 2026
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Having failed to secure a ticket, I was taunted with pitying one-upmanship by acquaintances who had had more success.—
Anthony Lane,
New Yorker,
13 Apr. 2026
Adjective
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The only thing keeping them from the bottom is the Boston Red Sox, who still play at a stadium not known to be kind to pitchers, Fenway Park.—
Mac Engel
April 30,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
30 Apr. 2026
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The story behind the brand is the kind foodies love.—
Charlotte Observer,
Charlotte Observer,
30 Apr. 2026
Adjective
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The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation, but told USA TODAY the FBI has found other writings by Allen that authorities are now reviewing, some of which expressed empathetic views on transgender issues.—
Christopher Cann,
USA Today,
27 Apr. 2026
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This documentary captures the challenges of connection amidst conflict, highlighting Fatma’s faith and aspirations while serving as a poignant reminder of the humanity of Palestinians, resulting in an empathetic portrayal of identity and hope.—
Patrick Hipes,
Deadline,
23 Apr. 2026
Adjective
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Gerry Byrne, vice chairman of Variety parent company PMC and a longtime media business executive, will be recognized by his alma mater, New York’s Fordham University, with an honorary doctorate of humane letters at the school’s commencement ceremony on May 16.—
William Earl,
Variety,
29 Apr. 2026
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In an interview with The Times, Kiley said his vote was about common sense and being humane.—
Andrea Castillo,
Los Angeles Times,
28 Apr. 2026
Adjective
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School for Defectors, with its endearing cast of students and empathic educators, is also resonating with audiences, to judge from the response at True/False.—
Matthew Carey,
Deadline,
8 Mar. 2026
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Caleb and Tarim's relationship is both incredibly sexy in very overt ways, but wraps that into the concept of Betazed's open sexuality and empathic ability.—
Matthew Razak,
Space.com,
28 Feb. 2026
Adjective
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Most importantly, playing prominent roles alongside a respected veteran and thoughtful mentor in Zibanejad really seemed to propel the young wingers, who finished the season by combining for 43 points (24 for Lafrenière and 19 for Perreault) in the final 23 games.—
Vincent Z. Mercogliano,
New York Times,
27 Apr. 2026
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August 23 – September 22 One thoughtful move today creates real momentum.—
Tarot.com,
Hartford Courant,
26 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Compassionate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compassionate. Accessed 2 May. 2026.
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