The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

condolence

IPA:

Dictionary definition of condolence

An expression of sympathy or sorrow for someone who is experiencing grief or loss.
"The church sent a message of condolence to the grieving community."

Detailed meaning of condolence

It is an act of offering sympathy and support to someone who is going through a difficult time. It can be expressed through words, actions, or gestures, and it is intended to offer comfort and support to the person who is grieving.
Condolence can take many forms, such as a heartfelt letter, a phone call, a visit, or a gesture of support. It can also be expressed through religious or spiritual rituals or ceremonies. Condolence can be offered to someone who has lost a loved one, a pet, a job, or any other significant aspect of their life.
It can also be used as a noun, condolence message, which is a message or letter expressing sympathy, often sent to the family of a deceased person, or in any other situation where a person or a group of people are going through a difficult time.
In general, condolence refers to an expression of sympathy or sorrow for someone who is experiencing grief or loss, it is an act of offering sympathy and support to someone who is going through a difficult time and it can take many forms, from words to actions or gestures.

Example sentences containing condolence

1. I offer my deepest condolences for your loss.
2. She wrote a beautiful letter of condolence to the family.
3. The condolence cards were overflowing with heartfelt messages.
4. The President offered his condolences to the families of the victims.
5. The funeral home provided a book of condolence for visitors to sign.
6. We expressed our condolences by sending a sympathy basket.

History and etymology of condolence

The noun 'condolence' has an etymology rooted in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'condolentia,' which is formed by combining 'con-' meaning 'with' or 'together,' and 'dolens,' the present participle of 'dolere,' which translates to 'to grieve' or 'to feel sorrow.' Thus, the etymology of 'condolence' encapsulates the notion of coming together with someone who is experiencing grief or loss, sharing in their sorrow, and expressing sympathy or empathy. It emphasizes the communal aspect of offering solace and support during times of emotional distress, as conveyed by its linguistic origins.

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Further usage examples of condolence

1. The news of the tragedy elicited an outpouring of condolence from the public.
2. She received many messages of condolence from her colleagues at work.
3. The bereaved family appreciated the outpouring of condolence and support.
4. I struggled to find the right words of condolence to offer my friend.
5. The company sent a letter of condolence to the family of the deceased employee.
6. Their heartfelt condolences offered solace in the midst of grief.
7. An outpouring of condolences from near and far lifted their spirits.
8. Expressing condolences is a compassionate way to share the burden of loss.
9. He extended his deepest condolences with a handwritten letter.
10. Condolences from friends, family, and acquaintances poured in.
11. Condolence messages convey empathy and support during difficult times.
12. The pastor delivered comforting condolences during the memorial service.
13. Writing a sympathy card is a thoughtful way to express condolences.
14. Offering condolences is a way to pay tribute to the memory of the departed.
15. The community's condolences reflected their shared sorrow and unity.
16. Condolences are a testament to the impact the person had on others.
17. The grieving family found solace in the kind words of condolences.
18. Condolences serve as a bridge between sorrow and the path to healing.
19. She offered her heartfelt condolences with a warm and comforting hug.
20. Condolences help those in mourning know they are not alone.
21. The sincere condolences offered by colleagues were deeply appreciated.
22. Condolences offer a sense of closure in the face of loss.
23. The president offered his condolences to the nation during the tragedy.
24. Sharing condolences brings comfort and solace in times of sorrow.
25. Condolences are a universal language of compassion and support.