In Milan Kundera's "The Unbearable Lightness of Being," the concept of compassion is explored through its linguistic roots. All languages that come from Latin create the term for compassion by merging a prefix that signifies "with" or "together" with a root that relates to "suffering." This illustrates how compassion inherently involves a connection to the suffering of others, emphasizing empathy and solidarity in human experiences.

The etymology of compassion reveals the deep relationship between understanding and shared suffering. By highlighting this linguistic connection, Kundera underscores the profound nature of compassion, suggesting that it is not just a passive feeling but an active engagement with the pain of others. This insight invites readers to reflect on the significance of empathy in their own lives and relationships.