causing feelings of sadness, sympathy, or sometimes lack of respect, especially because a person or an animal is suffering

The refugees were a pathetic sight - starving, frightened and cold. 难民看起来实在可怜——饥寒交迫，担惊受怕。

After the accident he became a pathetic figure, a shadow of his former self. 事故后他成了一个可怜人，与之前判若两人。

See also: pathos

unsuccessful or showing no ability, effort, or bravery, so that people feel no respect

a pathetic attempt/joke/excuse 无用的尝试／差劲的笑话／蹩脚的借口

Are you telling me you're frightened to speak to her? Don't be so pathetic! 你是在说你不敢跟她讲话吗？别太窝囊了！