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 South African President Cyril Ramaphosa offered his condolences to the affected families in a statement. Michelle Gumede, Los Angeles Times, 11 June 2025 But nothing can overshadow Wilson’s true legacy of masterful songwriting and immaculate production, both of which changed rock and pop music forever, which is why so many stars are now flooding social media to share messages of grief and condolences and discuss his impact on music and culture. Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 11 June 2025 And, condolences to those who would have wanted Lizzie to end up with one of her best pals in Gordo (Lamberg), but Hurwitz revealed that the two wouldn't end up together in the reboot. Mekishana Pierre Published, EW.com, 11 June 2025 Our heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends and everyone who knew him and loved him. Becca Longmire, People.com, 3 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for condolence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for condolence
Noun
  • Ironically, this was the one episode where viewers were beginning to feel some sympathy for Ralphie, as his son got critically injured while roleplaying Lord of the Rings.
    Skyler Trepel, People.com, 10 June 2025
  • Communism was never discussed at meetings, but secret sympathies were difficult to sniff out.
    Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 June 2025
Noun
  • The story is set against a tragic event that unlocks a series of secrets, lies and regrets.
    Nancy Tartaglione, Deadline, 18 June 2025
  • His contrition and regret were evident both through his words and his body language.
    Luke Smith, New York Times, 16 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Condolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/condolence. Accessed 28 Jun. 2025.

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