condolence

Synonym Chooser

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 Johnson offered his condolences for Catholics around the world who are mourning the loss of their leader. Filip Timotija, The Hill, 25 Apr. 2025 Following the news of his death, a wave of Latin artists shared their condolences on social media. Jessica Roiz, Billboard, 21 Apr. 2025 Extra points Vrabel began his presser by sending condolences to the Hasselbeck family on the passing of former Patriots tight end Don Hasselbeck. Doug Kyed, Boston Herald, 15 Apr. 2025 With the release of the records as ordered by the First Judicial District Court, Santa Fe County, sheriffs extended their appreciation to first responders, and offered sincere condolences to the Hackman family in their time of loss. Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 15 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for condolence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for condolence
Noun
  • Dutton's hardline rhetoric, including sympathy for Trump's style of politics and calls for closer ties with like-minded nationalist leaders, has unnerved moderate voters.
    Mohammed Soliman, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Apr. 2025
  • Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued a statement expressing sympathy with the victims and their families.
    Jim Morris and Rob Gilles, Christian Science Monitor, 27 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Even if a Super Bowl never came for the duo of Martin and Smith, something both acknowledged as their only regret from their respective careers, each played a pivotal role in maintaining the storied tradition of the Dallas offensive line.
    Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Apr. 2025
  • The challenge is ensuring this vibe doesn’t tip into financial regret.
    Jack Kelly, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Condolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/condolence. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on condolence

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