what does condolences mean

“Condolences” means expressing sympathy to someone who is grieving or going through a painful loss, especially after a death.

Basic meaning

• To “offer condolences” is to say you are sorry for what they are going through and that you share in their sadness.

• The word comes from Latin roots meaning “to suffer together,” so it’s about showing emotional support, not just saying polite words.

• People usually say things like “my condolences” or “please accept my condolences” in messages, cards, or in person after someone has died.

Condolence vs. sympathy

• Sympathy is the feeling of care and sorrow you have for someone who is hurting.

• A condolence is the expression of that feeling, such as a text, card, letter, or spoken message.

Simple example

If a friend’s grandmother dies, you might say:

“I’m so sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family.”

That short message is you offering your condolences—sharing their pain and letting them know they’re not alone.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.