utmost sympathy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utmost sympathy" is correct and usable in written English.
When used in a sentence, it conveys the idea that someone has deep sympathy or compassion. For example: "He expressed his utmost sympathy for those affected by the tragedy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Fifa expressed "utmost sympathy".

The Guardian - Sport

"I firstly want to reassure you that I believe this attack on Victoria Ayling to be unwarranted, and have the utmost sympathy with her.

The Guardian

He said the society had been in touch with his family, who live near Salisbury, and had offered "our utmost sympathy".

The Guardian

As a pregnant woman myself, I have the utmost sympathy for the affected women struggling with the impact of this disease on their children.

The Guardian - Opinion

So it is with the utmost sympathy that the diary passes on Monday's news from his team Movistar: Dowsett is too ill to ride.

BBC

"Any appeal against an adjudication by the SPL would be heard by the Scottish FA. "While the SPL and Scottish FA have the utmost sympathy for any player who is not being paid, it would be entirely inappropriate to meet with the players of any football club.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

We extend our utmost sympathies to Bob's beloved wife Clarice, to their children David Bruce Smith and Michelle Smith, to their grandchildren, and to Bob's sister, Arlene R. Kogod.

The New York Times

"I had no intention of causing any kind of distress as a result of my interview and I offer my utmost sympathies to anyone affected by sexual offences and paedophilia".

Independent

We have the utmost respect and sympathy for the Cuban people with whom we share a common heritage".

The Guardian

Yet she comes down, finally, on the side of clean water, asserting that the French authorities are "using their utmost powers of imagination and sympathy to devise ways of freeing a community that was clearly stuck and unhappy".

The New Yorker

The fact is that Ghomeshi has spent the last three days doing his utmost to gain the public's sympathy and pity.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When conveying "utmost sympathy", consider the recipient's emotional state and tailor your message to be supportive and comforting. Avoid clichés and offer genuine words of encouragement or understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "utmost sympathy" in situations that require solutions or actions. While it's important to express compassion, ensure your response also includes concrete steps to address the issue at hand to avoid appearing insincere.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "utmost sympathy" is to act as a noun phrase expressing a high degree of compassion or sorrow. Ludwig examples show it used in contexts where condolences or support are being offered. It describes the intensity of the feeling being conveyed.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

13%

Opinion

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Utmost sympathy" is a phrase used to convey a deep feeling of compassion and sorrow, particularly in situations of loss or hardship. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides real-world examples from reputable sources like The Guardian, BBC, and The New York Times. While the phrase is generally formal and respectful, it's important to use it genuinely and consider the context. Alternatives like "heartfelt sympathy" or "deepest condolences" can be used depending on the specific situation. Remember to tailor your message to offer genuine support and avoid clichés. The frequency of usage is uncommon, but is appropriate in many contexts, especially in news, media and formal business communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heartfelt sympathy

This option highlights the sincerity and emotional depth of the sympathy being offered.

deepest condolences

This alternative conveys a formal expression of grief and sorrow, emphasizing the depth of feeling.

my heart goes out to

This alternative is a more personal and emotional expression of sympathy.

empathetic concern

This combines empathy, the ability to understand another's feelings, with genuine concern for their situation.

sincere compassion

This phrase focuses on the genuine feeling of caring and concern for someone's suffering.

compassionate support

This emphasizes the active provision of comfort and assistance alongside sympathy.

profound sorrow

This indicates a deep and intense feeling of sadness or regret, often for someone's loss.

understanding and care

This highlights empathy and concern for someone's well-being, implying a sympathetic attitude.

deepest regrets

This expresses sorrow or disappointment, often used in formal apologies or acknowledgements of unfortunate events.

warmest regards

While less direct, this can imply sympathy in a broader context of support and care.

FAQs

How can I use "utmost sympathy" in a sentence?

You can use "utmost sympathy" to express deep compassion for someone's suffering, for example, "We extend our "utmost sympathy" to the victims of the disaster".

What's the difference between "utmost sympathy" and "deepest condolences"?

"Utmost sympathy" is a general expression of compassion, while "deepest condolences" is typically used to express sorrow for someone's loss, often in a formal setting.

Are there any situations where it's inappropriate to use "utmost sympathy"?

While generally appropriate in situations involving suffering or loss, using "utmost sympathy" might be perceived as insincere if not accompanied by genuine concern or action. It's also important to consider the context and avoid using it in situations that require practical solutions rather than emotional expressions.

What are some alternative phrases to express "utmost sympathy"?

Alternatives include "heartfelt sympathy", "sincere compassion", or "my heart goes out to", depending on the desired tone and context.