Word: Commiserate
Definition:
The verb "commiserate" means to feel or express sympathy or compassion for someone who is experiencing sadness or misfortune. When you commiserate, you show that you understand someone else's pain or problems and you care about how they feel.
Usage Instructions:
- You can use "commiserate" when talking about comforting a friend who is going through a tough time. - It is often used in more formal or literary contexts, but it's also perfectly acceptable in everyday conversation.
Example:
- "When Sarah lost her job, her friends gathered to commiserate with her and offer support."
(This means Sarah's friends came together to express sympathy for her situation.)
Advanced Usage:
- You might see "commiserate" used in sentences that highlight the act of sharing sadness. For example, "The two old friends sat together, commiserating over their lost opportunities."
Word Variants:
- Commiseration (noun): The act of expressing sympathy.
- Example: "His commiseration helped her feel better about her situation."
Different Meanings:
While "commiserate" primarily means to express sympathy, it does not have other common meanings in English. It is quite specific to feelings of compassion for others' troubles.
Synonyms:
- Sympathize - Console - Comfort - Empathize - Feel for
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There aren't any specific idioms or phrasal verbs that use "commiserate," but you might use phrases like: - "Share a burden" (which means to help someone with their problems). - "Shoulder someone's sorrow" (to take on the emotional pain of someone else, showing support).
In Summary:
"Commiserate" is a kind and empathetic word used to describe the act of sharing in someone else's sadness or misfortune.