How would you describe something that elicits feelings of sorrow or pity?

The term that best describes something that elicits feelings of sorrow or pity is "ruefully." This word conveys a sense of regret or sorrow, often tinged with a recognition of the circumstances that lead to those feelings. When something is described as rueful, it typically involves an acknowledgment of sadness or poignant emotions linked to a situation, making it closely aligned with the idea of evoking feelings of pity.

Other options do not carry the same emotional weight regarding sorrow. "Joyful" conveys happiness and positivity, while "gleeful" implies a sense of delight or happiness that is far removed from feelings of sorrow. Similarly, "content" refers to a state of satisfaction or peacefulness, lacking the deeper emotional connotation associated with pity or regret. Thus, "ruefully" stands out clearly as the most accurate descriptor for eliciting feelings of sorrow or pity.