feel sorry for (someone)
1. To empathize with or feel compassion for another person and their sorrows, problems, or plight. It's infuriating that the CEOs swindled the country for millions of dollars, but I feel especially sorry for the thousands of their employees who are now out of a job. I feel so sorry for Johnny—his addiction has gotten completely out of control. Trish's husband died suddenly last week. I still can hardly believe it—I feel so sorry for her.
2. To pity someone or their situation, especially in a condescending manner. I don't need you or anyone else feeling sorry for me! I must say, I feel sorry for the way you need constant affirmation from other people. You don't need to feel sorry for me, thanks. I don't want any handouts from a trust fund baby like you.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.