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Pitiful Definition & Meaning

pitiful
adjective
  1. inspiring mixed contempt and pity; "their efforts were pathetic"; "pitiable lack of character"; "pitiful exhibition of cowardice"
  2. bad; unfortunate; "my finances were in a deplorable state"; "a lamentable decision"; "her clothes were in sad shape"; "a sorry state of affairs"
  3. deserving or inciting pity; "a hapless victim"; "miserable victims of war"; "the shabby room struck her as extraordinarily pathetic"- Galsworthy; "piteous appeals for help"; "pitiable homeless children"; "a pitiful fate"; "Oh, you poor thing"; "his poor distorted limbs"; "a wretched life"

"Pitiful" in song lyrics

See how pitiful is used in real songs:

  • "But residentials as individuals sad as pitiful"
    Above the Law f/ Kokane, Tone Loc — Who Ryde?
  • "Ain't it pitiful?"
    Bishop Lamont — Rappers Wanna Sing
  • "You think that my bud is to soft, I see you cryin' pitiful"
    Bizzy Bone — All in Together

Usage tips for "pitiful"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "pitiful" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for pitiful to find words that pair well.

Use "pitiful" in a verse

Now that you know what "pitiful" means, try using it in your own lyrics:

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Frequently asked questions

What does pitiful mean?
inspiring mixed contempt and pity; "their efforts were pathetic"; "pitiable lack of character"; "pitiful exhibition of cowardice" bad; unfortunate; "my finances were in a deplorable state"; "a lamentable decision"; "her clothes were in sad shape"; "a sorry state of affairs" deserving or inciting pity; "a hapless victim"; "miserable victims of war"; "the shabby room struck her as extraordinarily pathetic"- Galsworthy; "piteous appeals for help"; "pitiable homeless children"; "a pitiful fate
What part of speech is pitiful?
Pitiful is an adjective.
How many definitions does pitiful have?
Pitiful has 3 definitions across 1 part of speech (adjective).

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