“I am sorry for your loss.”
Sometimes this can be such an empty refrain.
At some point in our lives, we will all have to offer our condolences to someone. And just what will you say? The same old thing? Or something a little different, with more meaning? Something that is a little more personal and authentic?
You want to say something to the grieving person that means a little more than this much-repeated phrase.
Read on and you can learn to give better support to your grieving family members or friends with 10 alternative (and better) things to say than “I’m sorry for your loss.”
Sorry for Your Loss
But first, let’s make this clear: There is nothing wrong with saying “I’m sorry for your loss.” Because it’s true; they lost someone, and you are sorry that it happened.
Don’t worry about it if that’s what you choose to say. Or maybe this is something you’ve said a lot in the past, or it just slips out when you’re not prepared to say something better. That’s ok! It’s not a hurtful thing to say. It’s simply a well-worn phrase that has become a little overused.
So with that said, let’s think through more thoughtful condolence phrases to use instead.
10 Things To Say Instead of “I’m Sorry for Your Loss”
I am so sorry to learn about John’s passing.
Always remember that someone loved this person.
Make it personal by mentioning their loved one’s name.
My heart breaks with you at the loss of your daughter, Bethany.
Remember, when someone dies, they are a son, daughter, spouse, aunt, uncle, sister, brother and so many other things to so many people.
Make it personal by giving them a title.
Your mom lived a long life! What a beautiful legacy she is leaving behind!
It is always so heartwarming to see a family bond at the time of a death. Make sure those left behind know that you see the support they are offering each other.
Make it personal by acknowledging their family legacy.
No words I can offer will make this hurt go away. Know that I am here for you at this devastating time.
Don’t tell someone you “know” how they feel. You don’t. Even if you have been through the “same type of loss” you don’t know exactly how they are feeling.
Still, you want to show your sympathy and support. So tell them that your friendship remains strong and deep even in the tough times.
Make it personal by acknowledging their unique pain and grief, and by offering your support.
Related: 22 Tips on How to Help Someone Who is Grieving
Even though we can’t be together during this difficult time, I am holding you close in my heart.
It’s not always possible to travel to get to a funeral, but you can still express how much you care for them.
Make it personal by being there however you can, even if it’s just by text, a phone call, or sending a sympathy gift.
Please let me offer you my compassion at this time.
Almost offering your condolences, but a little softer.
Make it personal by thinking through each word you say.
Such a tragic loss. I am so sorry. Tim was a wonderful friend.
The use of the word “tragic” lets the family know how deeply this has affected you. The family may not be aware of how well you knew their loved one; this is an opportunity to share some aspects of the person’s life that they didn’t know about.
Make it personal by telling them how deeply you have been affected.
We never have enough time.
This phrase is better used when someone loses a parent or even perhaps a spouse. It is also appropriate if there was an expected death.
Make it personal by acknowledging the loss of potential.
What you are going through is unimaginable. Know that my thoughts are with you at this sudden loss.
Let people know that you are surprised or shocked, but regardless, you are standing with them.
Often, when the loss is unexpected, people don’t know what to say and therefore don’t say anything. When this happens, the grieving person feels even more alone in the pain and confusion.
Make it personal by simply saying something.
He/She was in so much pain. This was the only way they could see to stop it. I am here for you, always.
This is something you would say to a family that has lost someone to suicide. This is always so tragic. Some families will never mention the “S” word because of the stigma. Just stand beside the family. Let them know that regardless of the circumstances, the death is a loss to everyone.
Make it personal by (compassionately) overlooking the stigma of tragedy.
More “I’m Sorry for Your Loss” Messages
- I am at a loss for words during this tragic time for you and your family. I will never forget [insert name]. Please know that I am praying for your peace and comfort.
- [Insert name] was such a light, and it’s hard to comprehend that they are gone. My heart is with you during this unexpected time of loss.
- Nothing I say can ease the pain that you must be enduring right now, and no one could ever take his/her place. Not ever. But I am here for you, now and always, when you need someone to lean on.
- Someone as special as [insert name] won’t ever fade from our hearts and memories. They lived with such passion and everyone who knew them, myself included, was blessed by their presence.
- How I wish to be there for you throughout this devastating time. He/she will be so sorely missed. I am with you in spirit, as are my thoughts and prayers.
- It’s hard to imagine a world without [insert name]. They were an incredible friend and my heart aches with you.
- I am deeply grieved at the loss you and your family have encountered. I hope the comfort of faith and family will help to ease your pain, even if just slightly.
- Words, no matter how kind, will always fall short. They may not be able to relieve the heartache, but those who care for you pray for your peace and comfort daily. We love you.
- It was with great sorrow that we learned of [insert name]’s passing. They were the most wonderful friend/spouse/ father/mother/relationship title, and will be missed by so many. Our hearts are with you.
- So many fond memories of [insert name] come to mind. They left an amazing mark on those whose lives they touched. May your special memories of them help you through this sorrowful time.
Non-Verbal Ways to Say “I’m Sorry for Your Loss”
These are just a few of the ways to change up your expressions of sympathy and support. There are many more ways to say “I’m sorry for your loss”; we’ve collected 101 condolence messages that you are free to use and adapt.
Keep in mind that everyone handles a death differently. Sometimes no words need to be spoken. A hug, a holding of hands, a gentle pat on the shoulder will convey more than words ever could.
- Drop off a hot meal for the family.
- As appropriate to your relationship, use comforting touch. If you’re unsure, simply ask – “Would you like a hug right now?”
- Send flowers or a gift; it can be anything from a personalized memorial to a beverage from their favorite coffee shop, a succulent to a self-care spa gift set.
- A sympathy card may be your way of offering your thoughts in written form. Some use beautiful artwork, others use poems or Scripture verses, and still others use humor. You can personalize it by adding a remark of your own.
- You can shoot someone a text to let them know you are thinking of them at this time. Here are some examples of condolence text messages.
- Post a feeling of sympathy/condolences on Facebook.
- Go to the funeral home website and offer your feelings.
If you don’t learn of the death for a few days or perhaps weeks, it is never too late to offer your sympathies. Grieving families will appreciate your thoughts and concerns.
Always keep in mind that someone loved this person. This was a husband or wife, a son or daughter, an aunt or uncle, a brother, sister, father, mother, or simply a beloved friend.
Read next: 50 Best Sympathy Gifts for Someone Who Is Grieving
