ABA Journal The digital English academy
Sometimes we wish that the people closest to us would remain by our side forever.
However, sooner or later, it’s time to say goodbye. Sadness overwhelms us and we enter a period that in English is known as grieving or mourning.
When someone close to you experiences the passing of a loved one, a hug, a comforting word, and above all, our presence, is an important means of support.
Sending condolence messages isn’t easy. The situation can often be overwhelming and leave us at a loss for words.
In this lesson, we want to teach you some expressions that will be very useful to express your condolences in English to whoever needs them. Do you want to learn them?
Showing empathy
The word “condolence” comes from the Latin “condolere” which means “to suffer together”. Empathy has to do with knowing how to put yourself in each other’s shoes and trying to understand what is happening. Therefore, our condolence message should say that we share their pain or grief.
If you still don’t have a large vocabulary in English, it’s better to use short sentences.
Regardless of whether you are close to the person or barely know them, you can use the following short, heartfelt phrases:
I am (so) sorry for your loss.
My heartfelt condolences.
My deepest sympathies.
I was heartbroken when I heard the sad news.
Sometimes there are no words
You may feel that words are not enough to bring comfort to the bereaved person.
If you want to express this feeling, you can use the following expressions:
Words cannot express my sorrow for your loss.
Words fall short of expressing my sorrow for your loss.
Words can’t express how saddened we are to hear of your loss.
If you feel that it is difficult for you to say this out loud, you can send a condolence message via email, text message, or printed or virtual card. There, you can expand on these words, recalling some of the virtues of the person who has passed away. If you feel confident, you can let them know that they can count on you for any help they might need.
I am here for you if you need anything.
If you need anything, just let me know.
If you need anything, please ask.
If you use our app, you can listen to the podcast “Meditation, dealing with grief” in which we explore some of the thoughts that can help you get through this difficult time.
Saying that you’re going to miss someone
When a person leaves, they leave a lot of behind. When we’re with our family, we can recall some anecdotes that highlight that person’s qualities.
He/She will be missed.
I will never forget when he/she…
You were such a dedicated friend/daughter/brother/sister to…
There are more details that you can use to express your solidarity: a flower arrangement, a call, or a donation. In the end, the most important thing will be your presence and your genuine interest in the other person, who will definitely thank you for it.
We hope that you’ve learnt to easily express your condolences in English.
Keep visiting our blog to find a variety of interesting material that will help you supplement your learning.
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