mes condoléances
mes condoléances is the French way to say "my condolences".
This phrase is used to express sympathy to someone who has experienced the death of a loved one. When discussing the act of giving condolences, French speakers typically use the verb présenter (to present or offer).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
While mes condoléances is standard, adding the word Toutes to the beginning to form Toutes mes condoléances is a common way to make the expression more formal and complete, especially in an official setting or when writing a sympathy card.
How does it change in a sentence?
In French, the phrase is always used in the plural form.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using the singular form mon condoléance. In French, condoléances must always be plural.
Did you know?
- While mes condoléances is the direct translation, French speakers often use the phrase je suis de tout cœur avec vous to convey a deeper, more emotional connection of 'being with someone with all one's heart'.
- In traditional French funeral etiquette, it is common to shake hands with the bereaved family while saying mes condoléances, but a kiss on the cheek is generally avoided unless the relationship is very close.
- The word mes in mes condoléances descends from the Latin meōs, meī and meās, which were used to indicate possession.
Examples in context
- Je vous exprime mes condoléances.You have my condolences.This sentence is useful for practicing how to express your condolences to someone.Tatoeba #3563544 by sacredceltic, translation #5082707 by AlanF_US
- Veuillez accepter mes condoléances.Please accept my condolences.This sentence is useful for practicing how to ask someone to accept your condolences.Tatoeba #11594076 by Adrien_FR, translation #4495428 by CK
- Veuillez accepter mes condoléances !Please accept my condolences!This sentence is useful for practicing how to express your condolences with emphasis.Tatoeba #1118143 by sacredceltic, translation #2679426 by _undertoad
- Je vous présente mes sincères condoléances.I offer you my sincere condolences.
- Nous partageons votre peine en ces moments difficiles.We share your sorrow in these difficult times.
- Je suis profondément désolé(e) pour votre perte.I am deeply sorry for your loss.
- Je partage ta peine.I share your sorrow.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Gabriel meets Emma at a funeral reception.
- GabrielEmma, toutes mes condoléances.Emma, my deepest condolences.
- EmmaMerci beaucoup, Gabriel.Thank you very much, Gabriel.
- GabrielJe suis vraiment désolé pour ta perte.I am truly sorry for your loss.
- EmmaC'est très gentil de ta part.That is very kind of you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mes, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
