Condolences thoughts and prayers7/31/2023 For example, many people say to one person, “please accept my condolences.” But somewhere in the development of the word, the plural form stuck for the singular usage too. It’s not clear why we always use the plural of the word “condolence” to express sorrow to one person. How to Send ‘Deepest Condolences’ to a Recipient and Their Family Know that it is one of the most formal ways you can express your sympathies to someone. In summary, yes, it is acceptable to express your deepest condolences to someone who recently lost a loved one. ![]() Rebellion: "Foreign Princes addressed their condolences to him." The OED labels this phrasing as a "formal declaration or expression of sympathy." An example of this (according to the OED) can be found in Clarendon's Hist. The current use of the plural form of the word began in the early 1700s. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the term was used in 1683 in the following manner: "A complement of condolence to your friend upon the death of his wife." The word "condolence" has been in use since the early 1600s as a noun meaning "sympathetic grief sorrowing with and for others." The word soon after came to be used as an outward expression of sympathy. Yes, it is OK to say "my deepest condolences." However, the longer and more formal phrase may be, "Please accept my deepest condolences." It Is OK to Say 'My Deepest Condolences?' Here's how to honor your unique loved one. For example, "I called to offer condolences for the Chiefs' loss last night."Įven though the word is sometimes used in other situations, when someone says they are offering "their deepest condolences," they are most likely giving a formal, heartfelt expression of sympathy to someone mourning the death of a loved one. Some use the phrase "my condolences" in an attempt at humor. It can sometimes be used as a modifier, as in "the queen will pay a condolence call to the family of the victims." ("The family received condolences when their child was born with a life-threatening disease.") Most of the time, the word "condolence" is used when someone dies, but it can also refer to other situations perceived as unfortunate. The word "condolence" means "sympathy with another in sorrow." Additionally, it is defined as "an expression of sympathy." The dictionary reminds us that it is usually used in the plural form and is often followed by a possessive word such as "my" or "our."Īlthough other words are named synonyms for condolence (pity, compassion, commiseration, sympathy), condolence is labeled a "formal expression of grief to one who has suffered a loss." If you're unsure what to say on a memorial page, the messages provided below can help. A memorial page is a useful tool for sharing funeral or memorial information, as well as giving a touching tribute to the departed. Tip: It's quickly becoming the norm for families to set up memorial pages in honor of their loved ones who have passed away. Here are some alternatives to the phrase “deepest condolences.” We don’t blame you as the word does sound particularly formal, and it may be used too often. In fact, we love that the word comes from the Latin word condolens, which means “to suffer with another.” What you are really saying to your friend when you offer condolences is that “we are suffering together.” Isn’t that nice?Īs perfect as the word “condolences” is, you may be trying to find an alternative to the word. This, of course, is entirely appropriate. Many people turn to formal language and offer a condolence message to the friend.
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