English–German

“sympathy” in German

German

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈmɪtˌlaɪ̯t/

Example

Die Folgen des Mitleids sind nicht immer positiv.

The consequences of sympathy are not always positive.

Illustration for Mitleid (sympathy)

How to say “sympathy” in German

“Sympathy” in German is Mitleid.

A compassionate observer looks at another person's pain from a certain distance.

Full entry for Mitleid: usage tips, similar words and word origin

Example sentences with Mitleid

Seine Geschichte erregte Mitleid.

His story aroused sympathy.

Tips for using Mitleid

  • German normally uses Mitleid mit jemandem haben, with mit taking the dative, rather than a direct equivalent of 'pity for someone'.

“sympathy” in other languages