express condolences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "express condolences" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to convey your sympathy or regret to someone who has experienced a loss or tragedy. For example, "I want to express my condolences for the loss of your beloved grandmother."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Trump scrambles to express condolences to Gold Star families.

The Washington Post

To express condolences, donations to Hospice of Palm Beach County.

The New York Times

We express condolences to Maloney's wife, U.S. Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney.

The New York Times

To express condolences, friends are encouraged to visit www.nelsenfh.com.

The New York Times

You can view his memorial or express condolences to the family online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Cornell University

To express condolences and share memories, please visit Sarah's Memorial Website at: www.quattlebaum.org.org

The New York Times

All you can really do is shake hands and express condolences, but there's no real conversation.

Independent

The usual response is to express condolences and offer no concessions, or to express condolences and promise discussion at an "appropriate" time.

The Guardian

He noted bitterly that none of the country's leaders had called him to express condolences.

The New York Times

If anyone wishes to express condolences online please go to www.copelandfhnp.com.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Condemn the violence, express condolences for the killings and pledge to strengthen security at foreign missions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When expressing condolences, be genuine and sincere. A simple, heartfelt message is often more comforting than elaborate prose.

Common error

Don't use empty phrases or platitudes that lack personal connection. Instead, offer a specific memory or acknowledge the person's unique qualities to make your condolences more meaningful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "express condolences" functions as a verbal expression of sympathy and regret towards someone who has experienced a loss, tragedy, or misfortune. It's a performative utterance that serves to acknowledge another's pain and offer emotional support. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

7%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "express condolences" is a grammatically sound and highly prevalent phrase used to convey sympathy and support, often during times of grief or loss. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is considered correct and suitable for various contexts. Primarily found in news and media, as well as academic settings, the phrase maintains a neutral-to-formal tone. When using "express condolences", ensure sincerity and avoid relying on generic platitudes to make your message meaningful. Consider related phrases like "offer sympathy" or "convey sympathy" to vary your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offer sympathy

Focuses on the act of offering emotional support and understanding during a difficult time.

convey sympathy

Emphasizes the transmission of sympathetic feelings to someone experiencing hardship.

extend heartfelt sympathy

Adds intensity and sincerity to the expression of sympathy, highlighting the depth of feeling.

offer deepest sympathy

Stresses the profoundness of the sympathy being offered, suitable for significant losses.

send thoughts and prayers

A common expression of support, often used in response to widespread tragedies or personal losses.

pass on condolences

Indicates the act of relaying sympathetic messages from oneself or others.

share in your sorrow

Communicates a shared sense of grief and loss with the person experiencing hardship.

grieve with you

Implies active participation in the mourning process alongside the bereaved.

show compassion

Highlights the act of demonstrating care and understanding through actions and words.

bear sorrow

More poetic and emphasizes carrying pain for someone.

FAQs

How can I use "express condolences" in a sentence?

You can use "express condolences" to convey sympathy for someone's loss or misfortune. For example, "I would like to express my condolences for your loss" or "The president called to express condolences to the victims' families."

What are some alternatives to "express condolences"?

Alternatives include "offer sympathy", "convey sympathy", or "extend heartfelt sympathy", depending on the specific context and desired tone.

Is it appropriate to "express condolences" via text message?

While it's generally better to express condolences in person, by phone, or with a card, a text message might be acceptable in certain situations, especially if you cannot immediately communicate in a more personal way. Follow up with a more thoughtful expression of sympathy as soon as possible.

What's the difference between "express condolences" and "offer sympathy"?

"Express condolences" is a more formal and direct way of conveying sympathy, often used in official or public contexts. "Offer sympathy" is generally more personal and can encompass a wider range of supportive actions and gestures.