Have you ever wanted to show someone that you truly understand their disappointment or frustration? The word commiserate captures that human moment of shared feeling, when you step into another person’s emotional space to acknowledge what they’re going through. It’s a powerful term often used in conversations about empathy, relationships, and social connection.
Commiserate - Origin of the Word
Commiserate comes from the Latin word commiserari, which means “to pity” or “to feel sorrow with.” This Latin root is formed from com- (together) and miserari (to pity), emphasizing the idea of experiencing compassion alongside someone else. The term entered English in the early 17th century, reflecting a growing focus in language on emotional awareness and interpersonal understanding.
Commiserate - Meaning and Definition
To commiserate means to express or feel sympathy with someone who is unhappy or experiencing a setback. It goes beyond simply acknowledging a problem—it involves sharing in the emotional weight of the situation. The word is commonly used in both personal and professional contexts, such as offering support to a friend or showing understanding toward a colleague facing a challenge.
Commiserate - Synonyms
- Sympathize – to show understanding for someone’s feelings or situation.
- Empathize – to emotionally connect with and share another person’s experience.
- Console – to comfort someone who is upset or distressed.
- Comfort – to provide reassurance during a difficult time.
- Pity – to feel sorrow for someone else’s misfortune.
- Support – to stand by someone emotionally or practically.
Commiserate - Antonyms
- Dismiss – to disregard someone’s feelings or concerns.
- Ignore – to pay no attention to another person’s emotional state.
- Celebrate – to express joy, often contrasting with moments of sorrow or loss.
- Criticize – to judge rather than offer understanding or compassion.
Usage in a Sentence
After her project was delayed, her teammates gathered around to commiserate with her and offer encouragement for the next steps.
