What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is derived from the adjective かわいそう (kawaisou), which means "pitiful" or "poor thing".
Which one should you use?
Depending on the situation and level of politeness, other expressions may be more appropriate. 大変だね is an informal expression that conveys empathy and understanding by acknowledging a person is going through a tough situation. お気の毒です is a polite expression for showing sympathy often used in formal situations. ご愁傷様です is often used at funerals or when expressing condolences to someone who has experienced a significant loss.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
かわいそうに is used in casual or semi-formal settings. However, be aware that using this phrase toward an adult can sometimes carry a nuance of looking down on them or treating them like a child and it can sound patronizing if used toward a social superior.
How do you pronounce it?
kawaisou ni
Did you know?
- The root word かわいい in かわいそう originally meant 'pitiful' or 'pathetic' rather than 'cute'. Over time, the meaning shifted so that the feeling of wanting to protect something small and weak became the modern word for 'cute'.
- While かわいそうに expresses pity, Japanese speakers often use the phrase お疲れ様 (otsukaresama) to acknowledge someone's hardship. This shifts the focus from the person being 'pitiful' to the person being 'hard-working'.
- The adjective in かわいそう is often written with the kanji 可哀想, which literally translates to 'it is difficult to see or bear'.
Examples in context
- かわいそうに、一人ぼっちだね。Kawaisou ni, hitoribocchi dane.I feel sorry for you, being all alone.
- かわいそうに、そんなに泣かないで。Kawaisou ni, sonna ni nakanaide.I feel sorry for you, please don't cry like that.
- かわいそうに、試験に落ちちゃったんだね。Kawaisou ni, shiken ni ochichatta ndane.I feel sorry for you, you failed the exam.
Example conversation
Misaki is comforting Kenta after he lost his wallet.
- 美咲 Misaki財布を失くしたの？かわいそうに。Saifu o nakushita no? Kawaisou ni.You lost your wallet? I feel sorry for you.
- 健太 Kentaうん、とても困っているよ。Un, totemo komatte iru yo.Yeah, I'm in a real bind.
- 美咲 Misaki何か手伝えることはある？Nanika tetsudaeru koto wa aru?Is there anything I can do to help?
- 健太 Kentaありがとう、美咲。助かるよ。Arigatou, Misaki. Tasukaru yo.Thanks, Misaki. That helps a lot.
