Speaking Lessons: Condolences
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When someone experiences the loss of a loved one, it can be hard to know what to say. Expressing condolences in English is an important communication skill, whether you want to comfort a friend, write a condolence message, or even prepare a short condolence speech.
This lesson will provide you with useful condolence phrases in English, examples of expressing sympathy and condolences, and tips for using them effectively.
What Does Condolence Mean?
The word condolence refers to sympathy and sorrow for someone who has lost a loved one or experienced great pain. It can be used in both singular and plural forms, but they are not always used in the same way.
- Condolence (singular): This form is less common and is usually used in set expressions such as “a condolence message”, “a book of condolence”, or “a condolence card.” It refers to one single expression of sympathy.
- Example: He signed the book of condolence at the embassy.
- Condolences (plural): This is the form most often used when speaking directly to someone who is grieving. It refers to the words or feelings of sympathy you offer.
- Example: Please accept my deepest condolences.
- Example: We send our sincere condolences to the family.
👉 In everyday English, when you are expressing sympathy to someone, you should normally use the plural form “condolences.”
Common Phrases for Expressing Condolences in English
These are polite expressions you can use when speaking directly to someone who has suffered a loss.
- I am deeply sorry to hear about the death of …
- I was heartbroken by the sad news.
- Words can’t express the sadness I feel about …
- Words fall short of expressing my sorrow.
- Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
- My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
- We will always remember …
- We will sadly miss …
- Sorry, I am at a loss for words to express my sadness.
Short Condolence Messages
Sometimes the best words are simple and heartfelt. If you want to keep your condolence message short, you can use these expressions:
- Thinking of you in these difficult times.
- Sending love and strength to you and your family.
- With deepest sympathy.
- May his/her soul rest in peace.
- My heart goes out to you and your family.
- You are in my thoughts and prayers.
- Wishing you comfort and peace in the days ahead.
- We share in your grief and send our condolences.
- May you find strength in the love of family and friends.
- Gone but never forgotten.
- Holding you close in my thoughts during this time of sorrow.
- May the memory of [Name] bring you comfort.
- Please know that you are not alone in your grief.
👉 These short condolence phrases are especially useful for sympathy cards, text messages, or quick notes when you want to express support in a respectful way.
Example of a Condolence Speech in English
Sometimes you may need to give a short condolence speech at a funeral, memorial, or gathering. Here is a simple model:
Good morning, everyone. I stand here today with a heavy heart to express my condolences for the passing of [Name]. He/She was a kind and generous person who touched the lives of many. We will always remember his/her smile and the love he/she shared with others. On behalf of my family, I would like to express my deepest sympathy to [Name’s family]. May his/her memory live on in our hearts forever.
Example Sympathy Card Messages
When writing a condolence card, it’s common to use a few short sentences that show sympathy, support, and care. Here are some examples you can adapt:
- Dear [Name], I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. May you find comfort in the love of family and friends.
- In loving memory of [Name]. We will never forget the kindness and warmth he/she brought to our lives. With deepest sympathy.
- Thinking of you in these difficult days. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
- Please know that you are not alone in your grief. Wishing you peace, strength, and comfort during this time.
👉 A sympathy card message should be short, respectful, and sincere. Avoid complicated words or long explanations. The most important thing is to let the grieving person know you are thinking of them.
Condolence Phrases for Colleagues and Formal Situations
When the loss involves a colleague, business partner, or professional contact, your words should remain respectful and formal. Here are some examples you can use in emails, letters, or cards:
- Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your [mother/father/relative].
- On behalf of our team, I extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
- We are saddened to hear of your loss and send you strength during this difficult time.
- Our thoughts are with you and your loved ones. May you find comfort and peace.
- We wish to express our condolences to you and your family. Please let us know if we can be of any assistance.
- With deepest sympathy from all of us at [Company/Organization].
👉 Tip for learners: In professional settings, avoid very personal or emotional language. Keep your message formal, respectful, and supportive.
How to Respond to Condolences
When people offer you condolences, a simple, polite response is enough. You don’t need to say much—just show appreciation for their kindness. Here are some common ways to respond:
- Thank you for your kind words.
- I appreciate your sympathy and support during this difficult time.
- Your condolences mean a lot to me and my family.
- We are grateful for your thoughts and prayers.
- Thank you for being here for us.
- Your message brought us comfort. Thank you.
👉 Tip for learners (responding to condolences):
- In informal situations, you can simply say: “Thanks for your support. It means a lot.”
- In formal situations, keep it respectful: “On behalf of my family, I would like to thank you for your condolences.”
Tips for Expressing Sympathy and Condolences
To write condolence messages for the loss of someone dear, follow these tips:
- Be sincere – keep your words simple and genuine.
- Be respectful – avoid clichés or jokes in such moments.
- Offer support – sometimes saying “I’m here if you need anything” is more comforting than long speeches.
- Adapt your words – depending on whether you are speaking face-to-face, writing a card, or giving a short speech.
Conclusion
Expressing condolences in English can feel difficult, but even simple words can bring comfort. Whether you say “I’m sorry for your loss” or give a longer condolence speech in English, what matters most is showing sympathy and support.
FAQs About Expressing Condolences in English
What is the best condolence message?
There is no single “best” message, but a simple and sincere phrase is always appropriate. For example:
– “I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you.”
– “Please accept my deepest condolences.”
The best message is short, respectful, and comes from the heart.
How do you express condolences?
You can express condolences by:
– Speaking in person – “I’m truly sorry for your loss.”
– Writing a message or card – “With deepest sympathy.”
– Sending a text or email – “Thinking of you during this difficult time.”
Always use kind, supportive words and avoid long explanations or advice.
How to write a short condolence message?
A short condolence message should be clear and heartfelt. Here are examples:
– “With love and sympathy.”
– “We are keeping you in our prayers.”
– “May [Name] rest in peace.”
Just one or two sentences are enough if they are sincere.
How to express condolences in text?
When writing a text message, keep it simple and supportive:
– “I just heard the sad news. I’m so sorry for your loss.”
– “Thinking of you and your family right now.”
– “Sending you strength and comfort.”
Texts should be short and warm, showing that you care, even if you cannot be there in person.
