Translation guide
Expressing sympathy or understanding for someone's situation or feelings in Japanese. The approach depends on the relationship and context.
To show that you feel for someone's hardship or misfortune.
A common, neutral way to express sympathy, like 'That must be tough.'
Working overtime every day must be tough.
Sympathizing with a past difficult experience.
I heard you were in an accident. That must have been awful.
A more formal expression of sympathy, often used for serious misfortunes.
I heard your family member passed away. My condolences.
Expresses pity, often for someone in a pitiable situation. Can sound condescending if used inappropriately.
Use with care; can imply looking down on the person.
You walked home in the rain? Poor thing.
To convey that you understand and share the person's emotional state.
Simply means 'I understand,' and is very common for sympathizing.
I understand how you feel.
More explicitly 'I understand your feelings.'
Direct translation of 'sympathize,' but sounds stiff and is rarely used in casual conversation.
I sympathize with your situation.
To comfort someone and perhaps encourage them after a setback.
Asking 'Are you okay?' shows concern and sympathy.
You look pale. Are you okay?
Means 'Do your best' or 'Hang in there,' often used to encourage someone facing a challenge.
Good luck on your exam.
Tells someone not to overdo it, showing concern for their well-being.
If you still have a fever, don't push yourself.
The verb 同情する (どうじょうする) is formal and can sound distant or judgmental. In most everyday situations, use phrases like 大変ですね or わかります instead.
Japanese often expresses empathy (understanding feelings) rather than sympathy (feeling pity). 気持ちがわかります (I understand your feelings) is more common than 同情します (I sympathize).
I understand how tough work can be.