mes condoléances
In French, "I am sorry for your loss" is expressed as mes condoléances.
The phrase is used to express sympathy to someone whose loved one has died. In formal writing or speech, one often uses the verb présenter (to present/offer) with the phrase, such as Je vous présente mes condoléances.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase mes condoléances literally translates to "my condolences".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In France, the expression Toutes mes condoléances (All my condolences) is common.
How does it change in a sentence?
Adding toutes (all) before mes condoléances is a common way to make the expression feel more heartfelt and complete.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use a literal translation of 'I am sorry for your loss' (Je suis désolé pour votre perte), which sounds unnatural and awkward in French. mes condoléances is the correct idiomatic choice.
Did you know?
- While an English speaker might say 'I am sorry' to express regret, using the adjective désolé in French to express sympathy for a death can mistakenly imply that you are personally at fault for the situation.
- In traditional French funeral etiquette, a bereaved person may receive a formal handwritten card called a faire-part to announce the death, to which they might reply using mes condoléances.
- In very intimate settings, French speakers often avoid the formal mes condoléances and instead use Je suis de tout cœur avec toi, which means 'I am with you with all my heart'.
Examples in context
- Je tiens à t'exprimer mes plus sincères condoléances et toute ma sympathie dans cette épreuve douloureuse.I want to express my sincere condolences and all my sympathy during this painful time.
- Je vous présente mes condoléances.I offer you my condolences.
- Accepte mes condoléances les plus sincères.Please accept my most sincere condolences.
Example conversation
Chloé visits Gabriel at his home after a funeral.
- ChloéJe suis vraiment désolée, Gabriel. Mes condoléances.I am truly sorry, Gabriel. My condolences.
- GabrielMerci beaucoup, Chloé. C'est très gentil.Thank you very much, Chloé. That is very kind.
- ChloéEst-ce que je peux faire quelque chose pour toi ?Is there anything I can do for you?
- GabrielPas pour le moment, mais merci de ta présence.Not right now, but thank you for being here.
