feel for

1. feel for someone . Sympathize with or feel sorry for someone, as in Tom was so upset that I felt for him . This usage was put as feel with by Shakespeare: “It resounds as if it felt with Scotland” ( Macbeth , 4:3). Both senses of feel for are present in the somewhat sarcastic I feel for you but I can't quite reach you , meaning “Too bad, but I don't really feel sorry for you.”

2. Grope, reach for with one's hands, as in It was pitch dark, and I felt for the doorknob . [Early 1700s]

Example Sentences

“She has a right to her privacy, and we respect her choices,” McDonnell said, “but we also understand the concern loved ones feel for her; a simple message could reassure those she cares about.”

From Los Angeles Times

Maddin explained that he started creating the characters "from a point of sheer contempt", but as the film progresses and more ludicrous things start to happen "you feel for them a little bit".

From BBC

When you’re 20-something and this comes to you, that may be a bit more challenging, so I feel for them and I also want to encourage them: It’s OK to not.

From New York Times

I feel for the dog, but if he can actually speak, let’s get him an agent and send him out on tour so the pup can raise a fortune for his cause.

From Los Angeles Times

"I don’t know if I enjoyed that. I've got to feel for Mike. I didn't think I was in the game, but I know I can always switch that gear," Littler told Sky Sports.

From BBC

Related Words

• approach
• attain
• contact
• end
• go
• join
• lead
• make
• pass
• stand
• strike