Adjectival form of 'pathos'

When describing rhetorical appeals, 'ethos' can become 'ethical,' and 'logos' can become 'logical.' But what about 'pathos'? The closest I can come up with is 'pathetic,' but some research tells me that using the word pathetic to mean 'relating to emotions' is an archaic definition. I was also considering using 'pathetical' to differentiate from the piteous connotation of 'pathetic'. Is there a more fitting word that I could use?

Solution 1:

I'm reading The Rhetorical Tradition textbook and they've just used 'pathetical' in context with ethical and logical. It threw me off for a second, but it makes sense.

Solution 2:

Yes, unfortunately, that is what "pathos" becomes, "pathetic".

It may have a more negative sound, but they both do mean the same thing: a show evoking pity and gloom.

Solution 3:

Empathetic:

• showing empathy or ready comprehension of others' states; "a sensitive and empathetic school counselor"

or sympathetic may suggest the idea: (from TFD)

• Of, expressing, feeling, or resulting from sympathy: a sympathetic glance.

• characterised by, feeling, or showing sympathy; understanding