At the A1 level, the word Mitgefühl might be a bit advanced, but it is useful to know because it combines two simple words: mit (with) and Gefühl (feeling). You can think of it as 'feeling with someone.' At this stage, you don't need to use it in complex sentences. You might just learn the phrase 'Ich habe Mitgefühl' to say 'I have compassion.' It is a good way to show you are kind and understand others. Even if you cannot explain why you feel this way, using this word shows you have a heart. You will mostly see it in simple stories or hear it when people talk about helping others. It is a 'good person' word. Just remember: it is das Mitgefühl, and you use it like a normal noun. If a friend is sad, you can try to say it to show you care. It is a big word, but the meaning is simple: being nice and understanding when someone is not happy.
At the A2 level, you are starting to build more sentences about feelings and people. Mitgefühl is a great word to add to your vocabulary for describing people's character. You can say 'Er ist ein Mensch mit viel Mitgefühl' (He is a person with a lot of compassion). You are also learning prepositions, so you can practice using für with this word: 'Mitgefühl für Tiere' (compassion for animals). At this level, you should be able to distinguish it from simple 'sadness' (Traurigkeit). While sadness is what you feel, Mitgefühl is what you feel because someone else is sad. You might see this word in short news clips or simple magazine articles about charity. It helps you talk about why people help each other. Try to use it when you talk about your family or friends. It makes your German sound more natural and caring than just using basic words like 'gut' or 'nett.'
At the B1 level, you are expected to talk about abstract topics and express your opinions. Mitgefühl is a key word for this. You should know how to use it with different verbs like zeigen (to show) or empfinden (to feel). For example: 'In dieser Situation muss man Mitgefühl zeigen.' You are also learning about the difference between Mitgefühl and Mitleid. Remember that Mitgefühl is usually more positive and equal, while Mitleid can sometimes sound like you are looking down on someone. You should also be able to use the word in the context of social issues, like discussing refugees or poverty. At B1, you can also start using the related verb mitfühlen, which is a separable verb. For instance: 'Ich fühle mit den Opfern mit.' This level is about moving from simple phrases to expressing genuine emotional depth and social awareness in your conversations and writing.
At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of Mitgefühl. You can use it in formal discussions about ethics, society, and professional behavior. You should be comfortable with phrases like 'ein tief empfundenes Mitgefühl' (a deeply felt compassion) and know how to use the word in various cases. You will encounter Mitgefühl in more complex texts, such as literature, newspaper editorials, and psychological reports. You should also be aware of its role in 'empathische Kommunikation' (empathetic communication). At this stage, you might also learn about 'Selbstmitgefühl' (self-compassion) and be able to discuss its importance for mental health. You should be able to explain the difference between Mitgefühl and related terms like Anteilnahme or Einfühlungsvermögen. Your ability to use this word correctly in both written and spoken German will demonstrate a high level of emotional and linguistic competence, allowing you to engage in sophisticated social interactions.
At the C1 level, you are exploring the philosophical and psychological depths of Mitgefühl. You can discuss the word's etymology and its place in German intellectual history, perhaps referencing authors like Lessing or Schopenhauer who wrote extensively about shared suffering. You should be able to use the word with precision in academic or highly professional contexts. For instance, you might analyze the 'Erosion des Mitgefühls' (erosion of compassion) in modern digital societies. You are expected to master complex grammatical structures involving the word, such as 'Das Mitgefühl, dessen er so dringend bedurfte...' (The compassion he so urgently needed...). You should also be familiar with idiomatic expressions and the subtle shifts in meaning when Mitgefühl is used in different registers. At this level, Mitgefühl is not just a vocabulary item but a concept you can manipulate to express complex theories about human nature and social structures.
At the C2 level, your mastery of Mitgefühl is equivalent to that of a highly educated native speaker. You can use the word to convey the finest shades of meaning in literary or philosophical discourse. You might use it in a critique of a complex novel, discussing how the author evokes Mitgefühl without falling into sentimentality. You are comfortable with archaic or very formal synonyms like Erbarmen or Barmherzigkeit and know exactly when to deploy them for rhetorical effect. You can speak eloquently about the neurological basis of Mitgefühl or its role in global politics. Your usage is effortless, and you can play with the word's connotations in creative writing or high-level debate. For a C2 learner, Mitgefühl is a tool for profound expression, allowing you to navigate the most sensitive and complex human experiences with linguistic grace and precision.

Mitgefühl 30秒了解

  • Mitgefühl is the German word for compassion and empathy, used to describe the deep emotional connection we feel when others are suffering or in need.
  • Grammatically, it is a neuter noun (das Mitgefühl) and is most commonly used in the singular form with verbs like 'zeigen' or 'empfinden'.
  • It differs from 'Mitleid' (pity) by implying a more equal and shared emotional experience rather than just feeling sorry for someone.
  • In German society, expressing Mitgefühl is considered a vital social skill and is frequently used in both personal relationships and formal public discourse.
The German noun Mitgefühl is a profound and essential term in the German language, representing the capacity to resonate with the emotional states of others. At its core, it is a compound of the preposition mit (with) and the noun Gefühl (feeling), literally translating to 'with-feeling.' This linguistic structure perfectly mirrors the psychological concept of empathy and compassion. In German culture, Mitgefühl is not just a passive emotion; it is often viewed as a moral imperative and a cornerstone of social cohesion. It is used to describe the deep resonance one feels when witnessing another's suffering, joy, or hardship. Unlike the word Mitleid, which can sometimes carry a connotation of pity or looking down upon someone, Mitgefühl implies an equal footing and a genuine shared experience. It is the emotional bridge that connects individuals in times of crisis.
Emotional Resonance
The ability to truly understand and share the feelings of another person, creating a bond of mutual understanding and support.

Sein tiefes Mitgefühl für die Opfer der Katastrophe war in jedem seiner Worte spürbar.

In professional settings, such as healthcare or social work, Mitgefühl is a highly valued trait. It describes the professional distance combined with emotional accessibility that allows a doctor or nurse to care for a patient without being overwhelmed. In personal relationships, it is the foundation of intimacy. When a friend goes through a breakup or loses a job, expressing Mitgefühl is the most appropriate response. It is also a common theme in German literature and philosophy, where thinkers have long debated the role of shared emotion in ethics. From the Enlightenment to modern psychology, the concept has evolved from a simple instinct to a complex cognitive and emotional skill that can be cultivated.
Social Solidarity
The collective expression of compassion that often leads to charitable actions and societal support systems.

Die Gesellschaft zeigte großes Mitgefühl und spendete großzügig für die Bedürftigen.

Linguistic Nuance
Distinguishing between Mitgefühl (empathy) and Mitleid (pity) is crucial for advanced German learners to convey the correct tone.

Ich empfinde kein Mitleid, sondern echtes Mitgefühl für deine Situation.

Ohne Mitgefühl wäre die menschliche Zivilisation längst zusammengebrochen.

Kinder entwickeln oft schon früh ein erstaunliches Maß an Mitgefühl.

In summary, Mitgefühl is a versatile and deeply human word that covers everything from a quiet moment of understanding between friends to a massive national movement of solidarity. Understanding its weight and correct usage is a key step for any B1 learner moving toward fluency.
Using Mitgefühl correctly requires an understanding of its typical grammatical environment. As a noun, it often follows verbs like empfinden (to feel), zeigen (to show), ausdrücken (to express), or haben (to have). One of the most common constructions is Mitgefühl für jemanden haben (to have compassion for someone). This structure is direct and effective. For instance, you might say, 'Ich habe großes Mitgefühl für die Menschen, die ihr Zuhause verloren haben.' Here, the adjective großes amplifies the intensity of the feeling.
Common Verbs
Empfinden (to feel), zeigen (to show), ausdrücken (to express), wecken (to awaken), mangeln (to lack).

Wir möchten Ihnen unser aufrichtiges Mitgefühl aussprechen.

Another frequent usage involves the preposition mit in a different sense: voller Mitgefühl (full of compassion). This acts as an adverbial phrase to describe how an action is performed. 'Er sah sie voller Mitgefühl an' (He looked at her full of compassion). Notice how the word remains in the singular. It is rare to see 'Mitgefühle' in plural form, as the concept is treated as an abstract mass noun. In more formal or literary contexts, you might encounter the phrase jemandem sein Mitgefühl bekunden (to express one's sympathy to someone), which is standard in official letters of condolence.
Prepositional Phrases
Aus Mitgefühl (out of compassion), voller Mitgefühl (full of compassion), mit tiefem Mitgefühl (with deep compassion).

Aus Mitgefühl half er dem alten Mann über die Straße.

Es mangelt ihm völlig an Mitgefühl für seine Mitmenschen.

Die Krankenschwester handelte stets mit großem Mitgefühl.

Ihre Augen waren voller Mitgefühl, als sie die Nachricht hörte.

Additionally, Mitgefühl can be the subject of a sentence to describe its effect: 'Sein Mitgefühl hat mich tief berührt' (His compassion touched me deeply). It can also be used in compound nouns, like Mitgefühlsbekundung (expression of sympathy), though this is more common in bureaucratic or journalistic German. For everyday use, stick to the verb-noun combinations mentioned above. Whether you are comforting a colleague or discussing a news story, these patterns will help you sound natural and precise.
You will encounter Mitgefühl in a wide variety of contexts in modern Germany. One of the most frequent places is in the news, especially during reports on humanitarian crises, natural disasters, or personal tragedies. News anchors often use phrases like 'Die Anteilnahme und das Mitgefühl in der Bevölkerung sind groß' (The sympathy and compassion among the population are great). In these instances, it signifies a collective emotional response from the public. You will also hear it in political speeches, where leaders invoke Mitgefühl to encourage social responsibility or to express the government's stance on social issues.
News & Media
Reporting on disasters, social movements, and human-interest stories where emotional connection is key.

Nach dem Erdbeben war die Welle des Mitgefühls weltweit spürbar.

In daily life, you might hear it in conversations about relationships or parenting. For example, a teacher might talk about the importance of fostering Mitgefühl in the classroom to prevent bullying. In the workplace, HR departments often discuss 'empathische Führung' (empathetic leadership), where Mitgefühl for employees' personal situations is seen as a key to productivity and retention. Furthermore, the word is a staple in the self-help and psychological discourse in Germany. Podcasts, books, and seminars frequently discuss 'Selbstmitgefühl' (self-compassion), a concept gaining popularity as a tool for mental health. This involves treating oneself with the same kindness and understanding one would offer a friend.
Psychology & Self-Help
Focusing on emotional intelligence, self-care, and therapeutic practices involving empathy.

Es ist wichtig, auch Mitgefühl mit sich selbst zu haben.

Der Film weckte tiefes Mitgefühl für die Protagonisten.

In der Politik wird oft an das Mitgefühl der Bürger appelliert.

Ohne ein gewisses Maß an Mitgefühl kann man kein guter Arzt sein.

Finally, in literature and the arts, Mitgefühl is a central theme. From the classic dramas of Schiller and Goethe to modern German cinema like 'The Lives of Others' (Das Leben der Anderen), the struggle to find or maintain compassion in difficult circumstances is a recurring motif. Whether you are reading a high-brow novel or a tabloid newspaper, Mitgefühl will appear as a vital indicator of human character and societal health.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using Mitgefühl is confusing it with Mitleid (pity). While they are related, Mitleid can sometimes imply a certain superiority—you feel sorry for someone 'down there.' Mitgefühl, however, is more about 'feeling with' them on an equal level. Using Mitleid when you mean Mitgefühl can occasionally come across as patronizing. Another common error is grammatical: using the wrong preposition. In English, we often say 'compassion for' or 'empathy with.' In German, while für is common, learners often forget that mit is used when the feeling is directed toward oneself (Mitgefühl mit sich selbst) or in the adverbial sense (voller Mitgefühl).
Pity vs. Empathy
Mistaking Mitleid (pity) for Mitgefühl (compassion/empathy) can change the emotional tone of your sentence.

Falsch: Ich habe Mitleid mit dir (can sound like 'I pity you'). Richtig: Ich empfinde tiefes Mitgefühl für dich.

Gender and pluralization are other stumbling blocks. Mitgefühl is neuter (das), but learners sometimes use the masculine der because many abstract nouns in other languages are masculine. Furthermore, trying to pluralize it into 'Mitgefühle' is a mistake. While grammatically possible in very specific poetic contexts, it sounds very unnatural in standard German. It is treated as an uncountable concept. Additionally, learners often struggle with the verb mitfühlen (to empathize). While Mitgefühl is the noun, the verb is mitfühlen, and it is a separable verb (Ich fühle mit dir mit). Mixing up the noun and verb forms or forgetting the separable prefix is a common B1-level error.
Verb Usage
Confusing the noun Mitgefühl with the separable verb mitfühlen.

Falsch: Ich mitfühle mit dir. Richtig: Ich fühle mit dir mit.

Falsch: Das ist ein großes Mitgefühl. Richtig: Das ist ein Zeichen von großem Mitgefühl.

Falsch: Er hat viele Mitgefühle. Richtig: Er hat viel Mitgefühl.

Falsch: Ich zeige Mitgefühl zu ihm. Richtig: Ich zeige Mitgefühl für ihn.

Finally, avoid overusing the word. While it is a beautiful term, in very casual settings among close friends, Germans might simply say 'Ich verstehe dich' (I understand you) or 'Das tut mir leid' (I'm sorry about that). Saving Mitgefühl for moments of genuine emotional significance ensures it retains its power.
German is rich with words related to emotional sharing, and knowing the differences between them is key to reaching a higher CEFR level. The most common alternative is Mitleid. As discussed, Mitleid (literally 'with-suffering') is often translated as pity. It focuses purely on the pain of the other person. Mitgefühl is broader and more positive, focusing on the shared emotional state. Another important word is Empathie. This is a direct loanword from English/Greek and is used increasingly in scientific, psychological, and modern corporate contexts. While Mitgefühl feels more 'German' and traditional, Empathie is often used to describe the cognitive ability to take another's perspective.
Comparisons
Mitgefühl (compassion) vs. Mitleid (pity) vs. Empathie (empathy) vs. Anteilnahme (sympathy/condolence).

Während Mitleid oft passiv ist, führt Mitgefühl oft zu aktivem Handeln.

Anteilnahme is another close relative. It literally means 'taking a part' in someone's situation. It is the standard word for 'sympathy' in the context of bereavement. When someone dies, you express your herzliche Anteilnahme. Using Mitgefühl in this context is also correct, but Anteilnahme is the more conventional choice for formal condolences. Then there is Barmherzigkeit (mercy/charity), which has a strong religious or historical connotation. It implies a virtuous kind of compassion, often from a position of power or divinity. For example, a king might show Barmherzigkeit to a prisoner.
Formal Alternatives
Kondolenz (condolence), Erbarmen (mercy), Warmherzigkeit (warm-heartedness).

Ihre Warmherzigkeit und ihr Mitgefühl machten sie zu einer beliebten Lehrerin.

Er bat um Erbarmen, doch er erhielt nur kaltes Schweigen.

Die Empathie ist eine Schlüsselqualifikation in der modernen Arbeitswelt.

Wir danken Ihnen für Ihre aufrichtige Anteilnahme.

Lastly, Verständnis (understanding) can be a milder alternative. Sometimes, when you don't want to sound too emotional, you can say 'Ich habe volles Verständnis für Ihre Situation' (I have full understanding of your situation). This is particularly useful in business emails where Mitgefühl might sound too personal. By mastering these nuances, you can tailor your German to any emotional landscape.

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

Before 'Mitgefühl' became common, the word 'Mitleid' was used for almost all forms of shared suffering. 'Mitgefühl' was introduced to provide a more neutral and noble alternative.

发音指南

UK /ˈmɪtɡəfyːl/
US /ˈmɪtɡəfyl/
The primary stress is on the first syllable: MIT-gefühl.
押韵词
Gefühl Gewühl Kühl Spül Bestühl Pfuhl Stuhl Schwül
常见错误
  • Pronouncing 'ü' like 'u' (moot-ge-fool).
  • Stress on the second syllable (mit-GE-fühl).
  • Making the 'g' sound too soft like a 'j'.
  • Dropping the 'h' in 'fühl'.
  • Pronouncing the final 'l' too darkly like in English 'ball'.

难度评级

阅读 3/5

Easy to recognize because of its compound parts 'mit' and 'Gefühl'.

写作 4/5

Requires knowledge of the correct preposition 'für' and neuter gender.

口语 4/5

The 'ü' sound in 'fühl' can be tricky for English speakers.

听力 3/5

Distinctive sound, usually easy to hear in context.

接下来学什么

前置知识

das Gefühl mit fühlen zeigen haben

接下来学习

die Anteilnahme die Empathie das Mitleid mitfühlen barmherzig

高级

das Erbarmen die Zivilcourage die Nächstenliebe die Humanität das Einfühlungsvermögen

需要掌握的语法

Neuter Nouns

Das Mitgefühl ist eine Tugend.

Preposition 'für' with Accusative

Mitgefühl für den Freund (accusative).

Compound Nouns

Das Selbstmitgefühl (Selbst + Mit + Gefühl).

Separable Verbs (mitfühlen)

Ich fühle mit dir mit.

Adjective Endings after 'kein'

Er hat kein echtes Mitgefühl.

按水平分级的例句

1

Ich habe Mitgefühl.

I have compassion.

Simple subject-verb-object.

2

Hast du Mitgefühl?

Do you have compassion?

Question form.

3

Er zeigt Mitgefühl.

He shows compassion.

Verb 'zeigen' in present tense.

4

Das ist Mitgefühl.

That is compassion.

Using 'das' as a demonstrative pronoun.

5

Kein Mitgefühl.

No compassion.

Negative 'kein' with a noun.

6

Wir brauchen Mitgefühl.

We need compassion.

Verb 'brauchen' with a noun.

7

Sie fühlt Mitgefühl.

She feels compassion.

Verb 'fühlen' in present tense.

8

Mitgefühl ist gut.

Compassion is good.

Simple adjective predicate.

1

Er hat viel Mitgefühl für Tiere.

He has a lot of compassion for animals.

Using 'viel' as a quantifier.

2

Sie ist ein Mensch mit Mitgefühl.

She is a person with compassion.

Prepositional phrase with 'mit'.

3

Wir zeigen Mitgefühl für die Armen.

We show compassion for the poor.

Dative plural 'den Armen'.

4

Warum hast du kein Mitgefühl?

Why do you have no compassion?

Question word 'warum'.

5

Sein Mitgefühl macht ihn freundlich.

His compassion makes him friendly.

Possessive pronoun 'sein'.

6

Ich empfinde Mitgefühl für dich.

I feel compassion for you.

Verb 'empfinden' is more formal than 'fühlen'.

7

Kleine Kinder haben oft Mitgefühl.

Small children often have compassion.

Adjective 'kleine' in plural.

8

Ohne Mitgefühl ist man einsam.

Without compassion, one is lonely.

Preposition 'ohne' with accusative.

1

Es ist wichtig, Mitgefühl zu zeigen.

It is important to show compassion.

Infinitive clause with 'zu'.

2

Ich habe großes Mitgefühl für deine Situation.

I have great compassion for your situation.

Adjective ending '-es' for neuter accusative.

3

Sie drückte ihr tiefes Mitgefühl aus.

She expressed her deep compassion.

Separable verb 'ausdrücken'.

4

In der Krise zeigte die Stadt viel Mitgefühl.

In the crisis, the city showed a lot of compassion.

Prepositional phrase 'In der Krise'.

5

Man kann Mitgefühl lernen.

One can learn compassion.

Modal verb 'kann'.

6

Sein Mitgefühl hat mich sehr berührt.

His compassion touched me very much.

Perfect tense 'hat berührt'.

7

Wir sollten mehr Mitgefühl füreinander haben.

We should have more compassion for each other.

Modal verb 'sollten' and pronoun 'füreinander'.

8

Aus Mitgefühl hat er ihr geholfen.

Out of compassion, he helped her.

Preposition 'aus' indicating reason.

1

Das Mitgefühl der Bevölkerung war überwältigend.

The compassion of the population was overwhelming.

Genitive case 'der Bevölkerung'.

2

Sie handelte aus reinem Mitgefühl.

She acted out of pure compassion.

Adjective 'reinem' in dative after 'aus'.

3

Es mangelt der Gesellschaft an Mitgefühl.

The society lacks compassion.

Verb 'mangeln' with dative object and 'an'.

4

Das Buch weckt das Mitgefühl des Lesers.

The book awakens the reader's compassion.

Genitive 'des Lesers'.

5

Er sprach voller Mitgefühl über das Schicksal der Flüchtlinge.

He spoke full of compassion about the fate of the refugees.

Phrase 'voller Mitgefühl'.

6

Mitgefühl ist eine Grundvoraussetzung für soziale Berufe.

Compassion is a basic requirement for social professions.

Compound noun 'Grundvoraussetzung'.

7

Trotz seines Mitgefühls konnte er nicht helfen.

Despite his compassion, he could not help.

Preposition 'trotz' with genitive.

8

Ihr Mitgefühl kannte keine Grenzen.

Her compassion knew no bounds.

Idiomatic expression 'kannte keine Grenzen'.

1

Die Erosion des Mitgefühls ist ein besorgniserregender Trend.

The erosion of compassion is a worrying trend.

Abstract noun phrase with genitive.

2

In seiner Rede appellierte er an das kollektive Mitgefühl.

In his speech, he appealed to collective compassion.

Verb 'appellieren an' with accusative.

3

Das Mitgefühl, das sie empfand, war fast schmerzhaft.

The compassion she felt was almost painful.

Relative clause.

4

Er untersuchte die philosophischen Grundlagen des Mitgefühls.

He investigated the philosophical foundations of compassion.

Complex noun phrase.

5

Ohne Mitgefühl verkommt die Justiz zur reinen Vergeltung.

Without compassion, justice degenerates into pure retribution.

Verb 'verkommen zu'.

6

Sie pflegte ein tiefes Mitgefühl für alle Lebewesen.

She cultivated a deep compassion for all living beings.

Verb 'pflegen' in the sense of 'to cultivate/maintain'.

7

Die Tat war ein Beweis für sein mangelndes Mitgefühl.

The act was proof of his lack of compassion.

Participle adjective 'mangelndes'.

8

Mitgefühl erfordert die Fähigkeit zur Perspektivenübernahme.

Compassion requires the ability to take another's perspective.

Complex compound noun 'Perspektivenübernahme'.

1

Das transzendentale Mitgefühl ist ein zentraler Begriff in seiner Lehre.

Transcendental compassion is a central concept in his teaching.

Highly academic terminology.

2

Er reflektierte über die Paradoxie des Mitgefühls in Kriegszeiten.

He reflected on the paradox of compassion in times of war.

Verb 'reflektieren über'.

3

Das Mitgefühl fungiert hier als ethisches Korrektiv.

Compassion functions here as an ethical corrective.

Formal verb 'fungieren'.

4

Sie sezierte die psychologischen Mechanismen, die Mitgefühl verhindern.

She dissected the psychological mechanisms that prevent compassion.

Metaphorical use of 'sezieren'.

5

In der literarischen Darstellung wird Mitgefühl oft idealisiert.

In literary representation, compassion is often idealized.

Passive voice.

6

Die Unfähigkeit zum Mitgefühl wird oft als Pathologie gedeutet.

The inability to feel compassion is often interpreted as a pathology.

Nominalization 'Unfähigkeit zum Mitgefühl'.

7

Sein Werk ist eine einzige Hommage an das menschliche Mitgefühl.

His work is a single homage to human compassion.

Rhetorical emphasis.

8

Mitgefühl ist das Band, das die fragile Menschheit zusammenhält.

Compassion is the bond that holds fragile humanity together.

Metaphorical relative clause.

常见搭配

großes Mitgefühl
tiefes Mitgefühl
Mitgefühl empfinden
Mitgefühl zeigen
aus Mitgefühl
voller Mitgefühl
kein Mitgefühl haben
Mitgefühl wecken
mangelndes Mitgefühl
Mitgefühl ausdrücken

常用短语

Mein herzliches Mitgefühl.

— A standard way to express condolences when someone has died.

Mein herzliches Mitgefühl zum Tod Ihres Vaters.

Mitgefühl für jemanden haben.

— To feel compassion for someone.

Ich habe Mitgefühl für seine schwierige Lage.

Mitgefühl mit sich selbst haben.

— To practice self-compassion.

Du musst auch Mitgefühl mit dir selbst haben.

Ein Zeichen von Mitgefühl.

— A sign or gesture of compassion.

Die Spende war ein Zeichen von Mitgefühl.

Von Mitgefühl getrieben.

— Motivated or driven by compassion.

Er handelte, von Mitgefühl getrieben.

Ein Mangel an Mitgefühl.

— A lack of compassion.

Es herrscht ein Mangel an Mitgefühl in der Welt.

In tiefem Mitgefühl.

— Used as a closing in letters of condolence.

In tiefem Mitgefühl, Ihre Familie Schmidt.

Mitgefühl wecken für...

— To evoke compassion for a specific cause or group.

Wir wollen Mitgefühl für Obdachlose wecken.

Jemandem sein Mitgefühl bekunden.

— To formally express one's sympathy to someone.

Der Präsident bekundete den Opfern sein Mitgefühl.

Sich von Mitgefühl leiten lassen.

— To let oneself be guided by compassion.

Lass dich bei deiner Entscheidung von Mitgefühl leiten.

容易混淆的词

Mitgefühl vs Mitleid

Mitleid is pity; Mitgefühl is compassion/empathy. Mitgefühl is generally preferred as it is more respectful.

Mitgefühl vs Anteilnahme

Anteilnahme is specifically for sympathy in cases of death/bereavement.

Mitgefühl vs Empathie

Empathie is the psychological ability; Mitgefühl is the emotional feeling and action.

习语与表达

"Ein Herz aus Stein haben."

— To have no compassion or feelings at all.

Er hat ein Herz aus Stein und zeigt kein Mitgefühl.

Informal
"Mit jemandem mitfühlen."

— To feel exactly what someone else is feeling (related verb idiom).

Ich fühle wirklich mit dir mit.

Neutral
"Den Schmerz teilen."

— To share the pain of another (an expression of Mitgefühl).

Wir teilen Ihren Schmerz in dieser schweren Zeit.

Formal
"Sich in jemanden hineinversetzen."

— To put oneself in someone else's shoes.

Man muss sich in sie hineinversetzen, um Mitgefühl zu haben.

Neutral
"Ein offenes Ohr haben."

— To be willing to listen, often as an act of compassion.

Sie hat immer ein offenes Ohr und viel Mitgefühl.

Informal
"Jemanden nicht im Regen stehen lassen."

— To not leave someone alone in a difficult situation.

Aus Mitgefühl ließ er ihn nicht im Regen stehen.

Informal
"Das Herz auf dem rechten Fleck haben."

— To have one's heart in the right place (be a compassionate person).

Trotz seiner rauen Art hat er das Herz auf dem rechten Fleck.

Informal
"Mitleid schinden."

— To try to provoke pity/compassion in a manipulative way.

Er versucht nur, Mitleid zu schinden.

Informal/Negative
"In Sack und Asche gehen."

— To show extreme mourning or regret (historical/literary context).

Sie gingen in Sack und Asche, um ihr Mitgefühl zu zeigen.

Archaic
"Über den eigenen Schatten springen."

— To overcome one's own limitations to show compassion.

Er musste über seinen Schatten springen, um Mitgefühl zu zeigen.

Neutral

容易混淆

Mitgefühl vs Mitleid

Both translate to 'pity' or 'compassion' in English.

Mitleid focuses on the suffering; Mitgefühl focuses on the shared feeling and equal standing.

Ich habe Mitgefühl für seine Träume, aber Mitleid mit seinem Versagen.

Mitgefühl vs Sympathie

Sounds like 'sympathy'.

In German, Sympathie usually means 'liking someone' (likability).

Er ist mir sympathisch (I like him), aber ich habe kein Mitgefühl für ihn.

Mitgefühl vs Gefühl

It's the root word.

Gefühl is any feeling; Mitgefühl is specifically compassion.

Ich habe ein schlechtes Gefühl, aber kein Mitgefühl.

Mitgefühl vs Empfinden

Both relate to feeling.

Empfinden is often a verb or a general sensation; Mitgefühl is the specific social emotion.

Mein Empfinden sagt mir, dass er Mitgefühl braucht.

Mitgefühl vs Einfühlung

Very similar meaning.

Einfühlung is more technical/psychological (empathy); Mitgefühl is more common/warm (compassion).

Durch Einfühlung entsteht echtes Mitgefühl.

句型

A1

Ich habe [Noun].

Ich habe Mitgefühl.

A2

Er hat Mitgefühl für [Person].

Er hat Mitgefühl für seine Mutter.

B1

Es ist wichtig, [Noun] zu zeigen.

Es ist wichtig, Mitgefühl zu zeigen.

B2

Aus [Noun] [Verb] er.

Aus Mitgefühl half er ihr.

C1

Das [Noun], das er empfand, war [Adjective].

Das Mitgefühl, das er empfand, war grenzenlos.

C1

Sein [Adjective] [Noun] berührte mich.

Sein tiefes Mitgefühl berührte mich.

C2

Das [Noun] fungiert als [Noun].

Das Mitgefühl fungiert als soziales Bindemittel.

C2

Ein Appell an das [Adjective] [Noun].

Ein Appell an das kollektive Mitgefühl.

词族

名词

das Gefühl
das Mitleid
die Einfühlung
das Mitfühlen

动词

mitfühlen
fühlen
empfinden
mitempfinden

形容词

mitfühlend
gefühlvoll
gefühllos
empathisch

相关

die Empathie
die Sympathie
die Anteilnahme
die Barmherzigkeit
das Erbarmen

如何使用

frequency

Common in media, psychology, and social discourse.

常见错误
  • Ich habe Mitgefühl zu dir. Ich habe Mitgefühl für dich.

    The preposition 'für' is standard for expressing compassion toward someone.

  • Der Mitgefühl ist wichtig. Das Mitgefühl ist wichtig.

    Mitgefühl is neuter, not masculine.

  • Ich habe viele Mitgefühle. Ich habe viel Mitgefühl.

    Mitgefühl is an uncountable noun and rarely used in the plural.

  • Ich mitfühle mit dir. Ich fühle mit dir mit.

    The verb 'mitfühlen' is separable, so the prefix 'mit' must move to the end.

  • Er ist ein mitleidiger Mensch. Er ist ein mitfühlender Mensch.

    'Mitleidig' can sometimes sound like 'pitiful' or 'pitying' in a negative way; 'mitfühlend' is the positive trait.

小贴士

Neuter Article

Always remember 'das Mitgefühl'. Abstract nouns based on 'Gefühl' are always neuter.

Avoid Mitleid

In modern German, 'Mitgefühl' is almost always a better choice than 'Mitleid' to avoid sounding patronizing.

The 'Ü' Sound

Practice the 'ü' in 'fühl' by making an 'o' shape with your lips and trying to say 'e'.

Condolences

Use 'Mein herzliches Mitgefühl' as a standard, polite phrase for expressing sympathy.

Compound Power

Break the word into 'mit' (with) and 'Gefühl' (feeling) to remember its meaning easily.

Self-Compassion

Learn 'Selbstmitgefühl' to talk about modern psychological concepts of self-care.

Separable Verb

Remember that the related verb 'mitfühlen' separates: 'Ich fühle mit'.

Mitfühlend

Use the adjective 'mitfühlend' to describe people's character traits.

Social Issues

Use 'Mitgefühl' when discussing news stories about humanitarian aid.

Reading Tip

When you see 'Mitgefühl' in books, it often signals a turning point in a character's development.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of 'Mit' as 'MEET' and 'Gefühl' as 'FEEL'. You 'meet' someone's 'feelings' halfway. Meet-Gefühl.

视觉联想

Imagine two hearts connected by a bridge. The bridge is the 'Mit' (with) that connects the two 'Gefühle' (feelings).

Word Web

Herz Tränen Hilfe Freundschaft Liebe Verständnis Trost Menschlichkeit

挑战

Try to use the word 'Mitgefühl' in three different sentences today: one about a friend, one about a news story, and one about yourself.

词源

The word 'Mitgefühl' is a direct translation (calque) of the Latin 'compassio', which itself comes from the Greek 'sympatheia'. It was popularized in the 18th century during the Age of Enlightenment.

原始含义: The literal meaning is 'feeling with' (mit + Gefühl).

Germanic, specifically High German.

文化背景

Be careful not to confuse it with 'Mitleid' in contexts where you want to show respect and equality, as 'Mitleid' can sometimes imply pity.

English speakers often use 'empathy' and 'compassion' interchangeably, but 'Mitgefühl' is the most direct and common equivalent for both in everyday German.

Arthur Schopenhauer's philosophy of 'Mitleid' (often interpreted as Mitgefühl). Gotthold Ephraim Lessing's theory of tragedy based on 'Mitleid'. The Dalai Lama's teachings on 'Mitgefühl', which are very popular in Germany.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Bereavement

  • Mein herzliches Mitgefühl.
  • In tiefem Mitgefühl.
  • Unser aufrichtiges Mitgefühl.
  • Wir teilen Ihr Mitgefühl.

Charity

  • Aus Mitgefühl spenden.
  • Mitgefühl für die Armen.
  • Ein Akt des Mitgefühls.
  • Mitgefühl wecken.

Relationships

  • Mehr Mitgefühl zeigen.
  • Kein Mitgefühl haben.
  • Mitgefühl empfinden.
  • Voller Mitgefühl sein.

Professional

  • Empathie und Mitgefühl.
  • Professionelles Mitgefühl.
  • Mangel an Mitgefühl.
  • Mitgefühl im Team.

News/Politics

  • Nationales Mitgefühl.
  • Welle des Mitgefühls.
  • Appell an das Mitgefühl.
  • Öffentliches Mitgefühl.

对话开场白

"Wie wichtig ist Mitgefühl in unserer heutigen Gesellschaft?"

"Hast du schon einmal tiefes Mitgefühl für einen Fremden empfunden?"

"Kann man Mitgefühl lernen oder wird man damit geboren?"

"In welchen Berufen ist Mitgefühl am wichtigsten?"

"Wie zeigst du dein Mitgefühl, wenn ein Freund eine schwere Zeit durchmacht?"

日记主题

Schreibe über eine Situation, in der du großes Mitgefühl für jemanden empfunden hast.

Warum ist Selbstmitgefühl genauso wichtig wie Mitgefühl für andere?

Diskutiere den Unterschied zwischen Mitgefühl und Mitleid aus deiner Sicht.

Wie hat sich das Mitgefühl in der Gesellschaft durch das Internet verändert?

Beschreibe eine Person, die für dich ein Vorbild an Mitgefühl ist.

常见问题

10 个问题

Mitgefühl is neuter. It is 'das Mitgefühl'. This is consistent with many abstract nouns ending in '-gefühl'.

Technically, 'die Mitgefühle' exists, but it is extremely rare and sounds unnatural in 99% of contexts. Stick to the singular.

Mitgefühl is 'feeling with' (empathy/compassion) and is seen as more positive. Mitleid is 'suffering with' (pity) and can sometimes sound patronizing.

You wouldn't say 'I'm sorry' directly with it, but you can say 'Mein herzliches Mitgefühl' to express sympathy for a loss.

Usually 'für' (for). For example: 'Mitgefühl für die Opfer'. You can also use 'mit' when talking about oneself: 'Mitgefühl mit sich selbst'.

Yes, 'mitfühlen' is separable. In a sentence: 'Ich fühle mit dir mit.' The 'mit' goes to the end.

Use 'Anteilnahme' specifically for formal condolences, such as in a funeral card or a formal letter after someone's death.

Yes, it is very common in news, literature, and daily conversations about social issues and personal relationships.

In German, you can certainly say 'Tiere zeigen Mitgefühl' to describe animals showing empathy for each other.

Yes, the adjective is 'mitfühlend' (compassionate/empathetic). For example: 'eine mitfühlende Person'.

自我测试 180 个问题

writing

Write a sentence using 'Mitgefühl' and 'zeigen'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Express your sympathy for a friend who lost their pet.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a formal condolence sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Explain why Mitgefühl is important in one sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'aus Mitgefühl' in a sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe a compassionate person using the adjective 'mitfühlend'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a sentence using 'kein Mitgefühl'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'voller Mitgefühl' in a sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a sentence about 'Selbstmitgefühl'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'empfinden' with 'Mitgefühl'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a sentence about Mitgefühl in the news.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Ask someone if they have compassion.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use the plural 'Menschen' and 'Mitgefühl'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a short note of sympathy.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'mangelnd' with 'Mitgefühl'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write about Mitgefühl in the workplace.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'wecken' with 'Mitgefühl'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Compare Mitgefühl and Mitleid briefly.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a sentence using 'tiefes Mitgefühl'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'ohne' with 'Mitgefühl'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Explain 'Mitgefühl' in your own words in German.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you show compassion to a friend?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Is compassion important in your job? Why?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Describe a time you felt Mitgefühl.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Can you learn Mitgefühl? How?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

What happens in a world without Mitgefühl?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Do animals have Mitgefühl? Give an example.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Why is self-compassion important?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say 'I express my deepest sympathy' in German.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you teach children Mitgefühl?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Is Mitgefühl a sign of weakness? Why or why not?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

What is the difference between Mitgefühl and Mitleid?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Talk about a movie that evoked Mitgefühl in you.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How does Mitgefühl help in a conflict?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

What is 'Anteilnahme' and when do you use it?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Do you think the internet reduces Mitgefühl?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Who is a person you admire for their Mitgefühl?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

How do you feel when someone shows you Mitgefühl?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Can there be too much Mitgefühl?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Use 'aus Mitgefühl' in a short story.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'Mein herzliches Mitgefühl zum Tod Ihres Mannes.' What is the occasion?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Ich habe echt kein Mitgefühl für Leute, die immer nur lügen.' How does the speaker feel?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Die Welle des Mitgefühls war riesig.' Was the response small or large?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Er handelte aus reinem Mitgefühl.' Why did he act?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Es mangelt ihm an Mitgefühl.' Does he have compassion?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Zeig doch mal ein bisschen Mitgefühl!' Is this a request or a statement?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Voller Mitgefühl blickte sie in die Kamera.' How did she look?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Selbstmitgefühl ist wichtig für die Seele.' What is good for the soul?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Sein Mitgefühl hat mich tief berührt.' How did the listener feel?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Wir drücken unser tiefstes Mitgefühl aus.' Is this formal or informal?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Ein Zeichen von Mitgefühl.' What was shown?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Ohne Mitgefühl ist kein Frieden möglich.' What is needed for peace?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Hast du Mitgefühl für die Armen?' Who is the compassion for?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'Ein mitfühlender Mensch hilft anderen.' What does a compassionate person do?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: 'In tiefem Mitgefühl, Ihre Familie Müller.' Where would you read this?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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