extending sympathy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extending sympathy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing compassion or condolences to someone who is experiencing a difficult time or loss. Example: "In times of grief, it is important to reach out to those affected by extending sympathy and support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

We regret his lapses, and we join the Pulitzer board in extending sympathy to those who suffered as a result of the 1932-33 Ukrainian famine".

The New York Times

Beneath this pragmatism lies a deeper understanding that humanity is various, that the changes we work for will never be universally accepted, and the test of our politics is extending sympathy to those who seem to stand in the way.

The New Yorker

"It's not a question extending sympathy [to the players] when you have to administer laws, it's a question of following the process and following the laws properly," Howman said.

The Guardian - Sport

Finding sympathy and extending sympathy is one of the preoccupations of the new novel, which tells the story of three sets of protagonists who all leave Belfast and arrive in Amsterdam for a long weekend.

The Guardian - Books

Innate dispositions such as extending sympathy beyond kin, an unschooled tendency to try helpful behavior, or readiness to punish (see above)—may enhance survival and reproduction in certain social environments.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Blackhawks owner Bill Wirtz issued a written statement extending sympathies to Magnuson's family.

The New York Times - Sports

The class extends sympathy to his family.

Princeton University

Mr. Cooley extended sympathy to the families.

The New York Times

We extend sympathy to his bereaved family.

The New York Times

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

The New York Times

Starmark International extends sympathy to Kerzner International on its loss.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "extending sympathy", be genuine and sincere in your expression. Tailor your words to the specific situation and the individual's needs.

Common error

Avoid using generic or cliché phrases when "extending sympathy". Instead, offer specific and heartfelt words that show you understand and care about the person's situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extending sympathy" functions as a verb phrase, describing the action of expressing compassion or offering condolences. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and suitable for use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "extending sympathy" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of expressing compassion or condolences. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While relatively rare in occurrence, its purpose is to offer comfort and support, typically in neutral to formal settings such as news reports or professional communications. Alternative phrases include "offering condolences" and "expressing compassion". When using the phrase, ensure sincerity and tailor your words to the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offering condolences

Focuses on expressing sorrow specifically for a loss.

conveying sympathy

Similar to expressing, but can imply a more formal or indirect communication of sympathy.

expressing compassion

Emphasizes the feeling of deep sympathy and concern for someone.

showing support

Highlights the act of providing assistance and encouragement.

offering support

Focuses on providing assistance and care during a difficult time.

providing comfort

Focuses on alleviating distress and offering solace.

expressing concern

Highlights the act of showing worry and care about someone's situation.

lending support

Suggests providing practical or emotional help.

sharing grief

Implies joining in the sorrow and mourning with someone.

expressing solidarity

Highlights a feeling of unity and shared interests or emotions with others.

FAQs

How to use "extending sympathy" in a sentence?

You can use "extending sympathy" to describe the act of expressing compassion or condolences. For example, "The organization is "extending sympathy" to the victims of the disaster".

What can I say instead of "extending sympathy"?

You can use alternatives like "offering condolences", "expressing compassion", or "showing support" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "extending sympathy"?

It's appropriate to use "extending sympathy" in situations where someone is experiencing loss, hardship, or distress. It is often used in formal announcements, letters, or speeches to convey condolences.

Which is correct, "extending sympathy" or "extend sympathy"?

"Extending sympathy" is grammatically correct as it uses a gerund form to describe the act of showing sympathy. "Extend sympathy" is also correct as a verb phrase. The choice depends on the sentence structure.