French Conversation · Level 125
55 words
French word
pitoyable
Pronunciation
IPA/pitwajabl/
Meaning
- adjectivepathetic
Example
C'est vraiment pitoyable de sa part.
It's really pathetic of him.
More examples
Il a présenté une excuse pitoyable.
He presented a pathetic excuse.
Core concept
A visibly failed person or effort that invites pity while also looking contemptible.
Common phrases
c'est pitoyable de sa part
It's pathetic of him
se sentir pitoyable
feel miserable
Similar words
pathétique: Arousing sympathy and stirring the emotions.
ridicule: So laughable that it invites mockery.
misérable: Looking shabby, unhappy, and deeply unfortunate.
lamentable: Disappointing and falling well short of expectations.
Definition in French
Qui paraît lamentable et suscite une réaction de pitié mêlée de mépris.
Word origin
French pitoyable was formed from pitié with the suffix -able, giving the sense of something that arouses pity.
Usage tips
- Pitoyable is a harsh judgment, so triste or regrettable can soften criticism when contempt is not intended.