provide consolation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "provide consolation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when offering comfort or support to someone who is experiencing distress or sadness. Example: "During difficult times, it's important to provide consolation to those who are grieving."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Only cigarettes provide consolation, distraction, a sensation that is something other than painful.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The move may provide consolation for the Nasdaq, which has been criticized for its handling of Facebook's initial public stock offering.

The New York Times

For Amy, the up side of having a staff of friends is that like real family, we provide consolation when things get rough.

The New York Times - Style

This might provide consolation, but it hardly helps to advance our understanding of what "evil" is and how we should think of it.

The Guardian - Opinion

I bumbled my way through the morning, darting in and out of the relatives' room attempting to answer questions and trying – unsuccessfully – to provide consolation.

The Guardian

This should provide consolation for nations eliminated from the men's competition, since the women's semis are India versus New Zealand and England versus Australia.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

All we can expect is more, much more, of what already exists: no wonder sexual power must provide consolations for other, forfeited energies.

The Guardian - Opinion

While LiS is dismayed to lose its long-running bet that the title would be I Told You I'd Be Back – And I Am!, the subtitle does provide consolations with its pleasing similarity to Gary Shteyngart's tale of a plucky immigrant in America, Super Sad True Love Story, but Arnified.

The Guardian - Film

He tells unwelcome truths as well as providing consolation.

The Guardian - Books

Del Valle --especially provided consolafter after her heartbreaking first-round loss and gave her a book of quotations for inspiration.

The New York Times - Sports

And music provided consolation and distraction from the tragedies of the family, about which they were mostly required to remain silent.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provide consolation", consider the specific emotion or situation. Tailor your words and actions to genuinely address the person's needs, rather than offering generic platitudes.

Common error

Avoid using "provide consolation" in a way that feels insincere or forced. Genuine comfort comes from empathy and understanding, not just the right words.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provide consolation" functions as a verb phrase, where "provide" is the main verb and "consolation" is the direct object. It describes the action of offering comfort or support to someone who is distressed. As affirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "provide consolation" is a grammatically sound and neutrally registered verb phrase used to describe the act of offering comfort or support. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. While not exceedingly common, it appears across diverse contexts like News & Media and Science, conveying empathy and emotional support in challenging situations. Alternative phrases such as "offer solace" or "extend comfort" can be used to express similar sentiments. When using the phrase, remember to be authentic and tailor your approach to the specific needs of the individual.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offer solace

Focuses on providing emotional comfort or relief.

extend comfort

Emphasizes the act of reaching out to provide comfort.

lend support

Highlights the act of offering practical or emotional assistance.

bring comfort

Implies the act of actively introducing comfort into a situation.

give encouragement

Focuses on boosting morale and confidence.

ease the pain

Emphasizes the act of alleviating suffering.

alleviate distress

Highlights the act of reducing anxiety or suffering.

soothe the sorrow

Specifically addresses the act of comforting someone grieving.

assuage grief

Focuses on lessening the intensity of sorrow.

uplift spirits

Implies the act of raising someone's mood or emotional state.

FAQs

How can I use "provide consolation" in a sentence?

You can use "provide consolation" to describe the act of offering comfort or support to someone who is experiencing sadness or distress. For example, "During difficult times, friends and family can "provide consolation" to those who are grieving."

What are some alternatives to "provide consolation"?

Some alternatives to "provide consolation" include "offer solace", "extend comfort", or "lend support" depending on the context.

Is it better to "provide consolation" or "offer sympathy"?

"Provide consolation" implies a more active effort to comfort and support, while "offer sympathy" is a more general expression of understanding and concern. The best choice depends on the specific situation and your relationship with the person.

What's the difference between "provide consolation" and "provide reassurance"?

"Provide consolation" focuses on easing emotional pain and grief, whereas "provide reassurance" aims to alleviate anxiety or doubt by offering encouragement and certainty. They address different aspects of emotional support.