extend sympathy

USAGE SUMMARY

"extend sympathy" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You would use this phrase when expressing sympathy or condolences to another person. For example: "We extend our deepest sympathy to the family in their time of sorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

We extend sympathy to his bereaved family.

The New York Times

We extend sympathy to Edith, Michael, Stewart and Lorraine.

The New York Times

The Ellis Island Restoration Commission mourns the passing of our President Philip Lax and extend sympathy to his family.

The New York Times

The quadriplegic asks you not to extend sympathy to her; she's happy, even if her form of pain is more visible than yours.

The New York Times

We extend sympathy to Mike, son Stratis Kakadelis; daughter-in-law Regina; granddaughters Michelle and Christina of Towson, MD; and sister Irene Moshos of Arlington, VA.

The New York Times

It is, of course, very hard to extend sympathy to someone in King's position without seeming to overlook, or to condone, offences against minors.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

We mourn the death of our cherished member Thelma Fatt and extend sympathies to her family.

The New York Times

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key also used the memorial to extend sympathies to Japan.

BBC

The class extends sympathy to his family.

Princeton University

Mr. Cooley extended sympathy to the families.

The New York Times

Starmark International extends sympathy to Kerzner International on its loss.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "extend sympathy", follow it with a clear indication of to whom the sympathy is being extended (e.g., "to the family", "to the bereaved").

Common error

While "extend sympathy" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using more personal and heartfelt expressions in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extend sympathy" functions as a performative utterance, where the act of saying it performs the action of expressing sympathy. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "extend sympathy" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to convey condolences and support during times of loss or hardship. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While generally neutral to formal in tone, it is prevalent in "News & Media", as highlighted by Ludwig's analysis of source data. Alternative phrases like "offer condolences" or "express sympathy" can be used for similar effect, while more informal situations may warrant more personal expressions of sorrow.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Express sympathy

Similar to the original phrase, but uses 'express' instead of 'extend'.

Convey our deepest sympathy

Emphasizes the depth of the sympathy being expressed.

Offer condolences

Focuses on the act of giving condolences, which are expressions of sympathy.

Send our heartfelt condolences

Highlights the sincerity and emotional depth of the condolences.

Offer a message of sympathy

More formal and emphasizes the communication of sympathy.

Share in your sorrow

Emphasizes empathy and shared grief.

Pass on our sympathies

A slightly more informal way of conveying sympathy.

Express compassion

Focuses on the feeling of compassion rather than the act of expressing sympathy specifically.

Offer support

Broader term that implies offering help and comfort during a difficult time.

Keep you in our thoughts

A more personal and less formal way of expressing sympathy.

FAQs

How do I use "extend sympathy" in a sentence?

You can use "extend sympathy" to express your condolences, for example, "We "extend sympathy" to the family during this difficult time."

What is a more informal alternative to "extend sympathy"?

Instead of "extend sympathy", you might say "I'm so sorry for your loss" or "My heart goes out to you" for a more personal touch.

Is it appropriate to use "extend sympathy" in a business email?

Yes, "extend sympathy" is suitable for business emails when conveying condolences, for example, regarding the loss of a colleague or client.

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

"Extend sympathy" is a broader expression of support, while "offer condolences" specifically refers to expressing sorrow for a loss.