I've come across the word simpatico and it aroused my curiosity, so I looked it up in the Oxford dictionary:
- Having or characterized by shared attributes or interests; compatible
The usage examples include the word relationship after simpatico, which slightly perplexes me. Is this always the case?
Plus, based on the definition, I would assume simpatico is synonymous with the word same. Am I right?
Consider the following examples. Is simpatico used correctly here?
The two companies have simpatico ideas for some products that can trump a myriad number of others and cause them to be out of business.
We had a simpatico relationship and we were the epitome of a perfect couple as we were like-minded.
Best Answer
No 'simpatico' is not a synonym of 'same'. If you replace 'same' with 'sympatico' or the other way around, you will give a very different impression.
Their definitions seem to have something in common, but with 'simpatico' the emphasis is with a mutually endearing relationship, like between friends or colleagues that like each other. Similarity might be present, or just as well not.
'Same' means all (or most) of their properties are shared.
'Simpatico' means they work well together, which would more likely imply they fill in gaps the others don't, rather than being similar.
Also, 'same' is a very common and very basic word with very simple semantics. 'Simpatico' is much rarer, is a bit slangy/informal (sounds like two gangsters might share a sub sandwich in New Jersey: "Let me pay for the check", "Fuggeddaboutit. We're sympatico").