Pathetically - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Pathetically is an adverb meaning in a manner that evokes pity, sadness, or contempt due to weakness, inadequacy, or failure. It often describes actions or situations that are disappointingly ineffective or pitiable.
Definition:
In a manner arousing pity, often due to inadequacy or sadness.
Synonyms:
pitifully, sadly, miserably, lamentably
Part of Speech:
adverb
Antonyms:
impressively, admirably
Common Collocations:
cry pathetically, fail pathetically, beg pathetically
Derivatives:
pathetic, pathetical (rare), pathetics (rare)
Usage Tips:
Use to describe actions or situations that evoke pity or contempt due to weakness or inadequacy.
Common Phrases:
pathetically weak, pathetically small, pathetically desperate
Etymology:
Derived from Greek "pathētikos" (capable of feeling), via Late Latin "patheticus."
Examples:
- 1. He sighed pathetically after losing the game again.
- 2. The puppy whined pathetically when left alone in the dark room.
- 3. She tried to sing but failed pathetically in front of the crowd.
- 4. His excuse sounded pathetically weak and unconvincing to everyone present.
- 5. The old man begged pathetically for help on the cold street corner.