sympathie

Sympathie is a noun in German meaning a positive feeling of affinity, liking, or rapport toward someone or something. It encompasses a sense of natural friendliness or attraction that makes social interaction easier and can express approval or support. People may feel sympathy for a person, a group, an idea, or a situation, and may show it through kind words, favorable judgments, or willingness to help.

Etymology: The term derives from late Latin sympathia, via French sympathie and ultimately from Greek sympathia "fellow feeling" (sun + pathos). In German, as in English, the word denotes a positive social attitude rather than a deep emotional understanding.

Usage notes: In everyday language, Sympathie is used to describe how likable or agreeable someone is, or the degree of support one feels for a cause. It is distinct from Mitgefühl (compassion) and Empathie (empathy), which involve more direct sharing of or insight into another's emotions. Antipathie is the opposite of Sympathie, indicating dislike.

In practice, Sympathie can influence interpersonal relations and decisions, such as hiring, voting, or forming alliances, often contributing to first impressions and social cohesion. The corresponding adjective is sympathisch (sympathetic, likable).