pathetically

But, rather than take it on, many campaigners pathetically fawn at the table, begging for crumbs – spending much of their time and energies in pathetically seeking attention.

Our own worst enemies

Why he stopped playing tournaments, and how his life unraveled so pathetically, is a story one can learn only by seeking out those who actually know Fischer.

Bobby Fischer’s Pathetic Endgame

The smoke curled up pathetically from the Yukon stove-pipe.

In a Far Country

I take issue with the word "pathetically" - what is pathetic about proudly showing off your lists?

Archive 2007-06-01

You don't think it's the fact that the prosecution had what some people have called a pathetically weak case?

CNN Transcript Mar 17, 2005

Trembling with fear, the creature continued to wave its sword pathetically at her from its knees.

The Black Wing

The younger members of the family called pathetically for some short, ready name that would not tax pen or tongue.

Christopher Hibbault, Roadmaker

It calls pathetically for those who know to teach it, and for those who can to lead it.

Freedom In Service Six Essays on Matters Concerning Britain's Safety and Good Government

He seemed to forget the passions and fury of his fierce career and live over the memories of his youth, recalling pathetically its bitter poverty and its fair dreams.

The Clansman An Historical Romance of the Ku Klux Klan

That kind of pathetically ambiguous language is what you expect from dishonest shysters like the pro-life yokels who, when you ask them directly if abortion is murder, will most likely weasel themselves into a coma with a response like, "Well, it's tantamount to murder."

"He'll have a fair trial. THEN we'll hang him."