Another Word for Condolence – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples
The word condolence is used to express sympathy to someone who is experiencing grief or loss. To make your English sound more varied and heartfelt, learning another word for condolence will help. Using synonyms allows you to convey different levels of support and feeling.
What is Another Word for Condolence?
A great synonym for condolence is sympathy. Condolence means an expression of sympathy, especially on the occasion of death. Sympathy means feelings of pity and sorrow for someone else’s misfortune. Both words describe the act of sharing or acknowledging someone else’s pain. Learning words like sympathy helps you describe the general feeling of care, while condolence is usually the formal expression of that feeling.
Meaning of “Condolence”
Condolence means an expression of sympathy with a person who is suffering sorrow, misfortune, or grief, especially on the death of a person.
We use it when offering formal comfort and sharing in someone’s sadness. For example, “We sent the family a card to offer our condolences.”
Synonyms for “Condolence”
Here are some common ways to say condolence:
- Sympathy: Feelings of pity and sorrow for someone else’s misfortune. The most common general alternative.
- Pity: The feeling of sorrow and compassion caused by the suffering of others. Can sometimes sound less formal or more intense.
- Comfort: The state of physical ease and freedom from pain or constraint; or, a soothing thing. Focuses on providing ease during distress.
- Support: The action of helping someone in difficulty. Emphasizes practical or emotional assistance.
- Sorrow: A feeling of deep distress caused by loss, disappointment, or misfortune suffered by oneself or others. Used when referring to the shared grief.
Example Sentences
- The entire community offered sympathy to the victims of the storm.
- The children felt pity for the lost dog wandering the streets.
- I tried to offer words of comfort to my friend after she lost her wallet.
- The organization provided financial support to the families in need.
- It was a time of deep sorrow for everyone who knew the famous artist.
Mini Dialogue
Sam: “I heard your neighbor’s grandfather passed away.”
Mia: “Yes, it’s very sad. I plan to visit them soon to offer my condolences.”
Sam: “That’s very thoughtful of you.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t say: I sent my condolence to the funeral. (The condolence is sent to the person or family.)
✅ Do say: I sent my condolences to the family. (Use the plural form when referring to the expression.)
Let’s Practice!
Which synonym best fits this sentence? “The company set up a fund to provide immediate __________ for employees affected by the factory fire.” (Answer: Support – This synonym works best because it refers specifically to the practical action or assistance given to someone in difficulty.)
Practice Tip
Use one new synonym for condolence in your next message or conversation today.
Final Note
Knowing what is another word for condolence and practicing synonyms like sympathy and comfort will help you express care during difficult times. Keep learning—you are developing a more thoughtful vocabulary!
