Commiserate

To express or feel sympathy or sorrow; to share or show empathy for someone else's troubles, difficulties, or misfortunes. Commiseration involves acknowledging the pain or suffering of another person and often offering words or gestures of comfort and support, though it doesn't necessarily mean actively helping to solve the problem. It is a way of validating someone's feelings and showing them they are not alone in their suffering. The act often involves offering words of solace, a listening ear, or simply being present and showing compassion. The core of commiserating is the sharing of a similar emotional experience.

Commiserate meaning with examples

• After losing his job, Sarah went to commiserate with her friend Mark. Over coffee, she listened as he described his frustrations and offered words of encouragement, helping him feel less isolated and more understood. Their shared empathy strengthened their bond, as she made sure that he didn't face this struggle alone.
• When the community experienced a devastating flood, neighbors came together to commiserate, sharing stories of loss and offering mutual support. They worked together to clean up and rebuilt, providing practical assistance while providing emotional support to one another. The collective grief bonded them.
• Following her team's loss in the championship game, Maria felt compelled to commiserate with her devastated teammates. She reminded them of their season's successes, shared her own disappointment, and encouraged them to stay strong, showing her true understanding and compassion.
• After hearing about the difficulties his sister was experiencing in a new city, John called to commiserate. He listened patiently to her worries about loneliness and feeling lost. His empathy soothed her and comforted her with familiar advice about the similar challenges he had faced.
• The news reported a local family's tragedy, prompting many online to commiserate. Strangers left messages of condolence and offered heartfelt support to the family. This online community served as a virtual source of comfort for the family during this difficult time, showing empathy.
• My deepest sympathies to the victims of the hurricane, I would love to help in any way I can, I’m sorry for your troubles, it's all so heartbreaking!