le mie condoglianze
The English phrase 'my condolences' is translated into Italian as le mie condoglianze.
This phrase is used to express sympathy to someone who has recently experienced the death of a loved one. It can be used as a standalone exclamation, similar to saying 'My condolences!' in English, when greeting someone who is grieving.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'the my condolences' because Italian requires the definite article le (the) before possessive adjectives.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Le mie condoglianze is a formal way to express sympathy. For a more formal and warmer expression, you can use sentite condoglianze, which means 'heartfelt condolences'. If you are in a more informal situation, you can say Mi dispiace tanto, meaning 'I'm so sorry'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word condoglianze is almost always used in its plural form when expressing sympathy.
Did you know?
- In very traditional Italian settings, the phrase le mie condoglianze may be accompanied by the phrase che la terra gli sia lieve, wishing that the earth be light upon the deceased.
- The word condoglianze is derived from the Latin con- (together) and dolere (to suffer), literally meaning to suffer together with another person.
- In many parts of Italy, expressing condolences is often accompanied by a specific physical gesture, such as a light touch on the arm or a firm handshake, to show solidarity.
Examples in context
- Volevo esprimere le mie condoglianze.I wanted to express my condolences.This sentence is useful for expressing the desire to offer condolences.Tatoeba #13984647 by Guybrush88, translation #13950438 by araneo
- Per favore, accetta le mie condoglianze.Please accept my condolences.This sentence is useful for asking someone to accept your condolences.Tatoeba #5795175 by Guybrush88, translation #4495428 by CK
- Le mie condoglianze!My condolences!This sentence is useful for offering condolences as a standalone exclamation.Tatoeba #845870 by Guybrush88, translation #629043 by Eldad
- 8 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Chiara visits Alessandro to offer support after his loss.
- ChiaraTi sono vicina in questo momento difficile.I am close to you in this difficult moment.
- AlessandroGrazie mille per il pensiero.Thank you very much for the thought.
- ChiaraTi porgo le mie condoglianze più sincere.I offer you my most sincere condolences.
- AlessandroTi ringrazio di cuore, Chiara.I thank you from the heart, Chiara.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
