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pitiful

adjective

/ˈpɪt ɪ fəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of pitiful

Evoking strong feelings of sympathy, compassion, or sorrow due to their unfortunate, distressing, or pathetic state.
"After losing his job, John found himself in a pitiful state of financial distress."

Detailed meaning of pitiful

When we encounter something pitiful, it elicits a sense of deep empathy or sadness within us. It implies a situation or individual that is deserving of pity or mercy, often because they are in a woeful condition, experiencing hardship, or facing overwhelming challenges. The pitiful nature of a person or thing can be characterized by their vulnerability, helplessness, or extreme suffering, causing observers to feel compelled to offer assistance or support. The word "pitiful" captures the essence of a deeply unfortunate circumstance or individual, stirring our emotions and prompting us to extend our kindness and understanding.

Example sentences containing pitiful

1. The abandoned puppy had a pitiful look in its eyes, begging for someone to rescue it.
2. The dilapidated house stood as a pitiful reminder of neglect and decay.
3. Despite his best efforts, the street performer's pitiful attempt at juggling garnered little applause.
4. The beggar's torn and dirty clothes painted a pitiful picture of his unfortunate circumstances.
5. The orphaned children's pitiful cries echoed through the empty hallways of the shelter.
6. Jane's pitiful attempts at cooking resulted in a burnt and inedible dinner.

History and etymology of pitiful

The adjective 'pitiful' has its etymological origins in the Middle English word 'pitous,' which was derived from the Old French term 'piteus.' This Old French word, in turn, can be traced back to the Latin 'pietatem,' meaning 'piety' or 'compassion.' 'Pietatem' was formed from the Latin adjective 'pius,' signifying a sense of duty, devotion, or compassion. Thus, the etymology of 'pitiful' shares a common root with 'piety' and 'compassion,' emphasizing the idea of evoking strong feelings of sympathy, compassion, or sorrow due to one's unfortunate, distressing, or pathetic state. This linguistic history highlights the connection between the word 'pitiful' and the expression of deep empathy and sorrow in response to the suffering of others.

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Further usage examples of pitiful

1. The injured bird fluttered its wings in a pitiful attempt to fly, but it could barely lift off the ground.
2. The pitiful sight of the homeless man huddled in the cold alleyway tugged at the passerby's heartstrings.
3. The once grand palace now stood in ruins, a pitiful shadow of its former glory.
4. The frail old woman's pitiful cough echoed through the quiet room, signaling her declining health.
5. The pitiful performance of the team left their coach deeply disappointed and searching for answers.
6. The pitiful expression on the stray dog's face tugged at my heartstrings.
7. His pitiful attempt at singing was met with a kind, supportive audience.
8. The pitiful sight of the orphaned children left me deeply moved.
9. Her pitiful cries for help echoed through the desolate alleyway.
10. Witnessing the pitiful state of the abandoned building filled me with sadness.
11. The pitiful condition of the starving animals spurred us into action.
12. Their pitiful living conditions highlighted the need for social reform.
13. He made a pitiful attempt to repair the broken toy, but it was beyond saving.
14. The pitiful state of the elderly woman's health concerned her family.
15. Her pitiful circumstances inspired her to seek a fresh start in a new city.
16. The pitiful state of the war-torn region called for international aid.
17. His pitiful pleas for forgiveness struck a chord with those he had wronged.
18. The pitiful state of the polluted river urged environmental conservation.
19. We couldn't ignore the pitiful sobs of the grieving widow.
20. Her pitiful story of loss and resilience touched many hearts.
21. The pitiful state of the dilapidated school demanded immediate renovation.
22. Witnessing the pitiful condition of the injured bird made us call a vet.
23. His pitiful financial situation prompted us to offer financial assistance.
24. The pitiful sight of the homeless man on the street evoked sympathy.
25. The pitiful state of the neglected park cried out for restoration.