compasión

kohm-pah-see-OHN/kompaˈsjon/

“compasión” means “compassion” in Spanish (deep sympathy and concern for suffering).

compassion

Also: pity, mercy

NounfB1

A caring adult gently hugs a small, tearful child sitting on the ground, illustrating deep sympathy and concern.

📝 In Action

Mostró compasión por los prisioneros y les dio agua.

She showed compassion for the prisoners and gave them water.

La compasión nos impulsa a ayudar a los demás.

Compassion drives us to help others.

Es importante tener compasión incluso por nuestros enemigos.

It is important to have compassion even for our enemies.

Word Connections

Synonyms

piedad (piety, compassion)
lástima (pity, shame)
clemencia (clemency, mercy)

Antonyms

crueldad (cruelty)
indiferencia (indifference)

Common Collocations

sentir compasión – to feel compassion
mostrar compasión – to show compassion
un acto de compasión – an act of compassion

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: compasión

Question 1 of 2

Which verb is typically used to say you *possess* the quality of 'compasión'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼

compasivo(compassionate) — Adjective

compadecer(to pity, to feel compassion for) — Verb

🎵 Rhymes▼

canciónatención

📚 Etymology▼

This word comes from the Latin *compassionem*, which is formed from *com-* (meaning 'with' or 'together') and *pati* (meaning 'to suffer'). The word literally means 'to suffer with' someone else.

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: compassionFrench: compassion

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'compasión' a strong word?

Yes, 'compasión' is a strong word. It implies a profound feeling of sympathy that motivates a person to act kindly or help, distinguishing it from simple pity.