condolence

noun

Definition of condolencenext
as in sympathy
a feeling or expression of care and sadness especially when someone is suffering because of the death of a family member, a friend, etc. The governor issued a statement of condolence to the victims' families. a letter of condolence

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the noun condolence contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of condolence are commiseration, compassion, pity, and sympathy. While all these words mean "the act or capacity for sharing the painful feelings of another," condolence applies chiefly to formal expression of grief to one who has suffered loss.

expressed their condolences to the widow

When can commiseration be used instead of condolence?

In some situations, the words commiseration and condolence are roughly equivalent. However, commiseration suggests pity expressed outwardly in exclamations, tears, or words of comfort.

murmurs of commiseration filled the loser's headquarters

When would compassion be a good substitute for condolence?

The meanings of compassion and condolence largely overlap; however, compassion implies pity coupled with an urgent desire to aid or to spare.

treats the homeless with great compassion

In what contexts can pity take the place of condolence?

While in some cases nearly identical to condolence, pity implies tender or sometimes slightly contemptuous sorrow for one in misery or distress.

felt pity for the captives

When could sympathy be used to replace condolence?

The words sympathy and condolence can be used in similar contexts, but sympathy often suggests a tender concern but can also imply a power to enter into another's emotional experience of any sort.

went to my best friend for sympathy
in sympathy with her desire to locate her natural parents

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of condolence In the replies, fans expressed their excitement for the episode as well as their condolences. —David Faris, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Apr. 2025 The Jet Set club issued a statement on Tuesday morning, sharing condolences to the families of those killed and injured in the roof collapse. —Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 9 Apr. 2025 There is nothing inviting about the way his aunt looks at her, but Farah approaches, bends low, and offers her condolences. —David Bezmozgis, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2025 Our nation today expresses its condolences, respect, and gratitude to the entire American people. —Meredith Kile, People.com, 4 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for condolence

Browse Nearby Words

condoled (with)
condolence
condoles
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Cite this Entry

“Condolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/condolence. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

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