condole - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
condole Word Meanings
- to express sympathy during someone's grief
- to offer condolences to someone
- to share in the sorrow of another
condole Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
condole Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈdəʊl/
US
/kənˈdoʊl/
condole Word Etymology
(a) con- (together) + dolere (to feel pain); (b) from Latin ‘condolere’ to feel pain together, passing through Old French; (c) Imagine comforting a friend by sharing their sorrow, symbolized by holding a hand during a moment of loss.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Condole is a formal verb meaning to express sympathy or sorrow when someone is grieving. It is used to offer condolences, usually with the preposition with (condole with someone) or in phrases like condolences to/for someone on a loss. It is more literary or ceremonial than everyday talk, and many English speakers prefer the noun 'condolences' or the verb phrase 'condole with' rather than using the bare verb. In writing, you might see 'We condole with you on the death of your father' or 'Please accept my condolences.' The idea is to share in another person’s pain rather than to comfort them directly. Do not confuse condole with console, which means to lessen sorrow.
Usage Reminders
- Use condole with, not towards; often paired with on/for a loss or with someone; reserve for formal writing or speech; do not confuse with console; keep it singular when using the verb; you can use the noun condolences for a related form
Common Misconceptions
- It is informal and common in casual speech
- It means to comfort someone directly
- It can be used with 'towards' rather than 'with'
- It replaces 'condolences' as the noun
- It is the same as 'console' in meaning
Thinking Differences
In English, condole is formal and often used with 'with' and a specific loss; many learners mistake it for comforting or assume it's used in casual chat. It contrasts with the noun condolences and with console, which aims to lessen sorrow rather than express sympathy.
Learning Tips
- Remember condole is formal; use in writing or speeches
- Pair it with with and a loss (condole with you on the death of...)
- Know the related noun: condolences
- Do not confuse with console, which is about comforting
- Use in contexts of death or serious illness
- Practice with varied losses (death of a relative, pet, etc.)
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'condole'?
A.To celebrate someone's achievement
B.To express sympathy or sorrow
C.To question someone's actions
D.To ignore someone's feelings
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'condole' correctly?
A.I condole at the festival last week.
B.She went to condole the family after their loss.
C.We always condole when someone is happy.
D.He decided to condole his team for winning.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'condole'?
A.Celebrate
B.Ignore
C.Sympathize
D.Laugh
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'condole'?
A.Sympathize
B.Mourn
C.Rejoice
D.Comfort
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where one might 'condole'?
A.When someone is feeling joyful about a promotion
B.During a wedding ceremony
C.After someone loses a loved one
D.While celebrating a birthday party
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