condoglianze
The Italian word for condolences is condoglianze.
condoglianze is used as a funeral expression. A very common and standard way to express this sympathy is to say sentite condoglianze, which means heartfelt condolences. When offering your sympathy, it is common to precede the word with a definite article or a possessive, such as Le mie condoglianze (My condolences).
Meaning: funeral expression (intj)
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
To increase the level of formality and convey a greater depth of sympathy in a formal context, you can use the superlative form sentitissime condoglianze (deepest condolences).
How does it change in a sentence?
condoglianze is a feminine plural noun.
Did you know?
- While 'condoglianze' is the standard term, in very formal settings, people might use the phrase partecipare al lutto, which literally means 'to participate in the mourning'.
- The adjective sentite, often paired with condoglianze, comes from the verb sentire, which can mean 'to hear', 'to feel', or even 'to smell', adding a sensory depth to the expression of sympathy.
- In many parts of Italy, instead of just words, the act of offering condoglianze is traditionally accompanied by a specific physical gesture, such as a firm handshake or a brief touch on the arm, depending on the closeness of the relationship.
Examples in context
- Volevo esprimere le mie condoglianze.I wanted to express my condolences.This sentence is useful for showing how to express your condolences.Tatoeba #13984647 by Guybrush88, translation #13950438 by araneo
- Il sindaco mi fece le sue condoglianze.The mayor gave me his condolences.This sentence illustrates how someone else can offer their condolences to you.Tatoeba #3857593 by Guybrush88, translation #3857588 by Amastan
- Per favore, accetta le mie condoglianze.Please accept my condolences.This sentence is a way to ask someone to accept your condolences.Tatoeba #5795175 by Guybrush88, translation #4495428 by CK
- Le porgo le mie più sentite condoglianze.I offer you my deepest condolences.
- Desidero esprimerle la mia più sincera solidarietà.I wish to express my sincere solidarity.
- La prego di accettare le mie parole di conforto.Please accept my words of comfort.
- Sono profondamente addolorato/a per la sua perdita.I am deeply saddened by your loss.
- Mi dispiace tanto per la tua perdita.I am really sorry for your loss.
- Sono vicino/a a te in questo triste momento.I am by your side in this sad moment.
- Mi unisco al tuo dolore e sono qui per te.I share your pain and I am here for you.
- 14 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Matteo and Sofia meet at a funeral service.
- MatteoSofia, sentite condoglianze per la tua perdita.Sofia, my deepest condolences for your loss.
- SofiaGrazie, Matteo, sei molto gentile.Thank you, Matteo, you are very kind.
- MatteoTi sono vicino in questo momento difficile.I am with you in this difficult moment.
- SofiaApprezzo molto il tuo supporto.I really appreciate your support.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry condoglianze, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
