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condolencia

kon-doe-LEN-see-ah/kondoˈlenθja/

“condolencia” means “condolence” in Spanish (expressing sympathy for a death).

condolence

Also: sympathy
NounfB2formal
A simple storybook illustration of one person gently placing a hand on another person's shoulder in a supportive gesture, with a single flower on the ground.

📝 In Action

Quiero expresarle mi más sentida condolencia por su pérdida.

B2

I want to express my deepest sympathy for your loss.

Le enviamos una tarjeta de condolencia a la familia.

B1

We sent a sympathy card to the family.

Acepten nuestras más sinceras condolencias.

A2

Please accept our most sincere condolences.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • pésame (condolences/sympathy)
  • compasión (compassion)

Antonyms

  • felicitación (congratulation)
  • enhorabuena (congratulations)

Common Collocations

  • sentidas condolencias – heartfelt condolences
  • presentar las condolencias – to offer/present condolences
  • nota de condolencia – sympathy note

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "condolencia" in Spanish:

condolence→sympathy→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: condolencia

Question 1 of 3

Which phrase is most common when speaking to a grieving friend?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
doler(to hurt) — Verb
dolor(pain) — Noun
doliente(mourner/suffering) — Noun
condolerse(to sympathize/feel for someone) — Verb
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

From the Latin prefix 'con-' (together/with) and 'dolere' (to suffer or feel pain). It literally means 'to feel pain alongside someone else.'

First recorded: 15th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: condolenceItalian: condoglianzaPortuguese: condolência

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'pésame' and 'condolencia'?

They are very similar. 'Pésame' is more common in spoken Spanish ('Te doy mi pésame'), while 'condolencia' is slightly more formal and often used in writing.

Can I use 'condolencia' for a breakup?

No. It is too heavy for a breakup. For a breakup, it is better to say 'Lo siento mucho' (I'm so sorry) or 'Te acompaño en el sentimiento'.

Is it 'sentida' or 'sentido' condolencia?

Since 'condolencia' is a feminine noun, you must use the feminine adjective 'sentida'.