pay condolences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pay condolences" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to express sympathy or condolences in response to a death or other tragedy. For example, "We pay our condolences to the family during this difficult time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"Cizre gave 17 martyrs for Kobane," says Mullah Qassem, an imam who has come to pay condolences.

The Economist

Today, neighbors stopped by to pay condolences, and relatives comforted Mr. Nemorin's wife, Rose-André.

The New York Times

Some 3,000 people gathered on Sunday to pay condolences to the family of a pharmacist shot and killed during a protest on Friday.

Independent

Throngs of relatives have lined up outside their house to pay condolences, as have officials, who are facing mounting criticism for allowing the attack to happen.

The Guardian

They confirm that on 24 January Cameron and four others took a charter flight to Saudi Arabia "to pay condolences following death of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz".

The Guardian

"The visit was to pay condolences following the death of the king, which was attended by heads of state from across the world".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Mr. Tremlett pays a visit to Madrid's official morgue, where lively crowds pay condolence visits in a setting that resembles an airport, with video monitors directing visitors to the right corpse, and a restaurant-bar on hand for refreshment.

The New York Times - Books

11 months later MoI was holding up their license because they didn't pay condolence.

Huffington Post

"They start paying condolences when the mother has a female.

The New York Times

Jerry Rawlings and his wife astonished Ghanaians when they visited and paid condolences to his widow, Mary Adu Boahen.

The Guardian

(Sato replied, defending himself). When Sato and a deputy were making door-to-door visits paying condolences to those who lost loved ones in the tsunami, Makino — notified ahead of time — told them not to come.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pay condolences", consider the context and relationship with the bereaved. A simple, sincere expression is often more meaningful than elaborate language. For example: "I want to pay my condolences for your loss."

Common error

Avoid using clichés or overly formal language that may sound insincere. Instead of saying, "Please accept my deepest condolences at this time of bereavement", a more genuine approach is, "I'm so sorry for your loss. I want to "pay condolences"."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pay condolences" functions as a performative utterance, specifically used to express sympathy and offer comfort in situations of loss or grief. The examples in Ludwig confirm its use in formal and informal contexts to convey sorrow.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pay condolences" is a meaningful way to express sympathy and offer support during times of loss. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and primarily used in News & Media contexts. While there are numerous ways to convey sympathy, such as "express condolences" or "offer sympathy", "pay condolences" strikes a balance between formality and sincerity. When using this phrase, it is essential to avoid clichés and overly formal language, and to ensure your expression is genuine and appropriate for the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

express condolences

Highlights the act of verbally or formally conveying one's sorrow and sympathy.

send condolences

Focuses on the act of delivering or transmitting one's feelings of sympathy.

convey sympathy

Similar to express, but suggests a more formal or indirect communication of sorrow.

extend sympathy

Emphasizes the act of reaching out to someone with compassionate feelings.

offer sympathy

Focuses on offering emotional support and understanding to someone who is grieving.

express sorrow

Directly communicates the feeling of sadness and grief.

give one's sympathy

Similar to offer sympathy, but can imply a more personal connection.

offer one's regrets

Emphasizes the feeling of sorrow or remorse for the loss or misfortune.

share in grief

Highlights the act of participating in and acknowledging another's sorrow.

show compassion

Focuses on demonstrating empathy and care for someone who is suffering.

FAQs

What does it mean to "pay condolences"?

To "pay condolences" means to express sympathy or sorrow to someone who has experienced a loss, typically the death of a loved one. It's a way of offering comfort and support during a difficult time.

How do I "pay condolences" appropriately?

When you "pay condolences", be sincere and respectful. A simple "I am so sorry for your loss" or "My heart goes out to you" can be meaningful. Avoid clichés or offering unsolicited advice.

What can I say instead of "I want to pay my condolences"?

You can use alternatives like "I want to "express condolences"", "I want to "offer sympathy"", or "I am deeply sorry for your loss" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to "pay condolences" in a formal setting?

Yes, it is appropriate to "pay condolences" in formal settings. However, the tone should remain respectful and sincere. You might use phrases like "Please accept my deepest sympathy" or "On behalf of [organization], I extend our heartfelt condolences".