What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "my sincere condolences", where mes is "my", sincères is "sincere" and condoléances is "condolences".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
mes sincères condoléances is a formal expression. It is appropriate for use in written cards, official letters or formal spoken interactions. You can make the expression even more formal by using full sentences such as Je vous présente mes sincères condoléances (I offer you my sincere condolences), J'adresse mes sincères condoléances à vous et à votre famille (I extend my sincere condolences to you and your family) or Permettez-moi de vous présenter mes plus sincères condoléances (Allow me to offer you my most sincere condolences).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, Canada, it is common to hear the phrase Mes sympathies instead of Mes condoléances.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word condoléances is a feminine noun that is almost always used in its plural form in this context.
Did you know?
- The word condoléances comes from the Latin 'con-' meaning 'with' and 'dolēre' meaning 'to grieve', literally translating to the act of grieving with another person.
- In France, it is traditional to write condolences on a 'carte de condoléances' using black or dark blue ink, as bright colors are considered inappropriate for the occasion.
- While condoléances is a formal term, French speakers often use the word deuil to describe the entire state of mourning, which is a concept that has no single-word equivalent in English.
Examples in context
- Mes sincères condoléances !My sincere condolences!This example shows the use of mes sincères condoléances as a standalone exclamation.Tatoeba #3563554 by sacredceltic, translation #12566938 by rul
- Je vous présente mes sincères condoléances.I offer you my sincere condolences.
- Recevez mes sincères condoléances pour votre perte.Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss.
Example conversation
Nathan visits Manon at her home after the passing of her father.
- NathanManon, je suis vraiment désolé pour ton père.Manon, I am truly sorry about your father.
- ManonMerci, Nathan, c'est un moment très difficile.Thank you, Nathan, it is a very difficult time.
- NathanJe t'adresse mes sincères condoléances.I offer you my sincere condolences.
- ManonC'est très gentil de ta part.That is very kind of you.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
