The difference in meaning is usually explained with some variation of the following: sympathy is when you share the feelings of another; empathy is when you understand the feelings of another but do not necessarily share them.

Is it better to sympathize or empathize?

Sympathy is observation and acceptance of what someone else is going through. Empathy involves taking on someone else's feelings. Empathy is better than sympathy, so it is considered better. ... Empathy and sympathy are both good traits to have because they offer support for people who need it.

What's the difference between empathize and sympathize?

Sympathy involves understanding from your own perspective. Empathy involves putting yourself in the other person's shoes and understanding WHY they may have these particular feelings.