Definition
English phrasal verb – “feel for (someone)” 😞
This phrasal verb means to feel sympathy for someone because they are very unhappy, or in a difficult situation.
For example – I really feel for her because she’s been under so much stress at work recently.
Clip 1
Until We Meet Again – (2022)
Clip 2
Bombshell – (2019)
In this scene from Bombshell (2019), Kayla (Margot Robbie) is in an elevator with Faye, an older woman who works at Fox News. Kayla is feeling uncomfortable as she starts to realize how difficult the work environment is, especially with the harassment. Faye notices this and says, “I feel for you,” showing sympathy.
Faye says this because she understands how tough it is for someone new at Fox News. She’s worked there for a long time and has probably gotten used to the toxic atmosphere. Her tone sounds lighthearted because she’s trying to make Kayla feel more at ease, while still offering support. Faye has likely adapted to the difficult situation, so she says it in a way that feels casual, even though the issue is serious.
By saying “I feel for you,” Faye is showing compassion for Kayla’s struggles, but her tone reflects that she’s already learned to handle it with a bit of humor or lightness. It shows how different women at Fox News respond in their own ways to the same challenges.
Clip 3
Chicago Fire – Season 11 Episode 22 (2023)
In this scene, Violet is talking about Sylvie Brett, who is going through a tough time. She’s dealing with the heartbreak from her breakup with Dylan and the disappointment over not being able to adopt a baby also.
Violet uses the phrase “I feel for her” to show sympathy for Brett. It means that Violet understands how hard things are for her friend and feels bad about everything Brett is going through.
Clip 4
Irrational Man – (2015)
In this scene, the character Carol is sitting in a diner. Carol is struggling with a tough custody battle over her children. Her ex-husband’s lawyer is connected to the judge, which makes the case unfairly difficult for her.
The woman next to Carol says, “I feel for you Carol, I do,” as a way of showing sympathy. She understands the emotional toll Carol is going through with the custody battle and other personal struggles, and her words express empathy for Carol’s situation.