Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
While gecondoleerd is the standard expression, more formal or deeply felt ways to express sympathy include Mijn medeleven (My sympathy / My heartfelt sympathy) or Mijn innige deelneming (My heartfelt sympathy).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Belgium, particularly in Flemish-speaking areas, Innige deelneming and Oprechte deelneming are preferred expressions, though Gecondoleerd is also used as a generic expression for condolences. In the Netherlands, people often use Veel sterkte to mean "Lots of strength".
How does it change in a sentence?
gecondoleerd is the past participle of the verb condoleren (to offer condolences), and it is used here as a standalone expression.
When do people say it?
When expressing condolences, you may hear or use Veel sterkte (Lots of strength) to offer support during a difficult time.
Did you know?
- The word deelneming in mijn innige deelneming literally means 'participation', suggesting that the speaker is taking part in the other person's grief.
- The phrase ik leef met je mee literally translates to 'I live along with you', implying a shared emotional journey rather than a static feeling.
- In formal Dutch writing, such as on a sympathy card, the phrase innige deelneming is often paired with a black-bordered card to signal the nature of the message immediately.
Examples in context
- Gecondoleerd!My condolences!This is useful for a direct expression of condolences.Tatoeba #7336329 by Micsmithel, translation #629043 by Eldad
- Ik hoorde dat je oma is gestorven, gecondoleerd.I heard that your grandmother passed away, my condolences.This shows how to use gecondoleerd when mentioning the loss of a relative.
- Geachte familie, mijn oprechte condoleances met het verlies van uw dierbare. Ik leef met u mee in deze moeilijke tijd. Moge de mooie herinneringen troost bieden. Mijn gedachten zijn bij u.Dear family, my sincere condolences on the loss of your loved one. I sympathize with you during this difficult time. May the fond memories bring comfort. You are in my thoughts.
- Gecondoleerd met het verlies van je vader.My condolences on the loss of your father.
Example conversation
Noah visits Julia at her home after hearing about her loss.
- NoahGecondoleerd met je verlies, Julia.My condolences on your loss, Julia.
- JuliaDank je wel, Noah.Thank you, Noah.
- NoahIk wens je veel sterkte.I wish you much strength.
- JuliaDat waardeer ik enorm.I appreciate that immensely.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry gecondoleerd, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR, Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
Thank you. You have helped me send a message of condolence.