condolence

Everyday

1. Condolences are words or messages of sympathy you give to someone when a person they love has died. tree →
2. Condolence is the feeling of sympathy shown at such a time. tree →

In the lessons

Used when someone dies: people send cards of condolence, sign a book of condolence, or say «My condolences». It is a respectful and gentle word. Phrases: «my condolences», «offer condolences», «a letter of condolence», «book of condolence».

Examples

• We sent a card of condolence to our neighbours. tree →
• Please accept my condolences on the loss of your grandmother. tree →
• The class wrote condolences to their teacher when her father died. tree →
• Hundreds of people signed the book of condolence. tree →
• He offered his condolences at the funeral. tree →
• A short, kind message of condolence can mean a lot. tree →
• Expressions of condolence and thanks were exchanged between them, and then they all sat down to a luxurious feast and entertained the monkey as the guest of honor. tree →

Note

Usually plural: «condolences». You «offer», «send» or «express» condolences. Used for a death (or sometimes a big loss), not for small problems. Similar phrase: «I'm so sorry for your loss».