As an English teacher with experience teaching non-native speakers, I know how challenging it can be to find the right words to express empathy or consolation. The phrase “sorry to hear that” is a common go-to, but it’s always good to have a few alternatives up your sleeve.
In today’s post, we’ll explore some other ways to convey sympathy when someone shares disappointing or upsetting news. Not only will this variety help you sound more natural, but it will also allow you to better nuance your response based on the situation.
We’ll look at expressions ranging from heartfelt condolences to more casual commiseration. And of course, we’ll provide plenty of real-world examples to illustrate proper usage.
Whether you’re consoling a friend or acknowledging a difficult situation at work, having these compassionate phrases in your English repertoire will help you connect with others and build stronger relationships.
What To Say Instead of “Sorry to Hear That”
Expressing empathy when someone shares unfortunate news can be done in many ways. Here are ten alternative phrases to “sorry to hear that”:
- “That must be really tough for you.”
- “I can’t imagine how that feels.”
- “My heart goes out to you.”
- “I wish I had the right words, just know I care.”
- “I’m here for you during this difficult time.”
- “That sounds really challenging.”
- “I’m so saddened to hear this news.”
- “This must be so hard for you.”
- “I’m here to support you in any way I can.”
- “I’m thinking of you during this tough time.”
1. That must be really tough for you.
This phrase is a way to acknowledge someone’s struggles and show empathy.
It’s useful when you want to recognize the difficulty of someone’s situation without pretending to understand exactly how they feel.
It’s a way of saying you see the weight of their burden and are sympathetic to it.
This phrase is particularly effective because it validates the other person’s feelings and the severity of their situation without assuming you know exactly what it’s like for them.
Usage examples:
- That must be really tough for you, Jenna. Taking care of three kids and working full-time is no small feat.
- After hearing about Tom’s recent job loss, I told him, “That must be really tough for you. I’m here if you need to talk.”
2. I can’t imagine how that feels.
This expression is a powerful way to show empathy without overstepping.
It acknowledges that everyone’s experiences and feelings are unique, and it’s a humble admission that you can’t fully understand their pain or struggle.
It’s a respectful way to express sympathy and support.
Usage examples:
- Hearing about your diagnosis was heartbreaking. I can’t imagine how that feels, but I want you to know I’m here for you.
- When Sarah told me about the loss of her pet, I said, “I can’t imagine how that feels, but I’m so sorry you’re going through this.”
3. My heart goes out to you.
This phrase conveys deep empathy and concern. It’s a way of saying that you feel for the person and are emotionally moved by their situation.
It implies a sense of compassion and a desire to offer comfort, showing that you’re emotionally invested in their well-being.
Usage examples:
- My heart goes out to you in the wake of your mother’s passing. If there’s anything I can do, please let me know.
- Kevin, my heart goes out to you as you navigate this difficult period of recovery. Remember, you’re not alone.
4. I wish I had the right words, just know I care.
This phrase is perfect for situations where words feel inadequate.
It’s an honest admission that while you might not know exactly what to say to make things better, you deeply care about the person’s well-being.
It emphasizes your emotional support over finding the perfect thing to say.
Usage examples:
- Seeing you so upset is hard, and I wish I had the right words, just know I care deeply and am here for whatever you need.
- After hearing about the accident, I told him, “I wish I had the right words, just know I care and am here to support you in any way.”
5. I’m here for you during this difficult time.
This phrase explicitly offers your presence and support to someone going through a hard time.
It reassures the person that they are not alone and that they have someone willing to be there for them, to listen, and to help in whatever way they can.
Usage examples:
- When Maria was going through her divorce, I made sure to tell her, “I’m here for you during this difficult time. Don’t hesitate to reach out.”
- I’m here for you during this difficult time, Chris. Let’s get together soon. I’d love to help in any way I can, even if it’s just listening.
6. That sounds really challenging.
This phrase is a way to acknowledge the difficulty of someone’s situation without minimizing their experience.
It’s useful for showing that you recognize the complexities and hardships they are facing.
By using this phrase, you’re offering a form of validation and understanding, acknowledging that what they’re going through is indeed tough and complicated.
Usage examples:
- When Lisa described balancing her job with night classes, I responded, “That sounds really challenging. You’re doing an incredible job managing it all.”
- Hearing about your recent health issues, I must say, that sounds really challenging. If there’s any way I can make things easier for you, just let me know.
7. I’m so saddened to hear this news.
This phrase expresses a deep level of personal empathy and sorrow for the other person’s situation.
It’s a way to share in their grief or disappointment, showing that you’re affected by their news as well.
This can be particularly comforting to someone who needs to feel understood and not alone in their sadness.
Usage examples:
- I’m so saddened to hear this news about your grandfather’s passing. He was such a wonderful person, and he will be deeply missed.
- When Paul told me about the fire at his family home, I said, “I’m so saddened to hear this news. If there’s anything I can do to help, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
8. This must be so hard for you.
This expression is another way to validate someone’s feelings and the severity of their situation.
It’s a direct acknowledgment of the hardship they are experiencing, offering sympathy and understanding.
It shows that you’re trying to put yourself in their shoes, even if you can’t fully grasp the extent of their distress.
Usage examples:
- This must be so hard for you, seeing your business go through such tough times. Remember, I’m here to support you however I can.
- This must be so hard for you, dealing with such a significant loss. Please know that I’m just a phone call away if you need someone to talk to.
9. I’m here to support you in any way I can.
This phrase is a clear offer of help and support, showing that you’re willing to be there for the person in whatever capacity they need.
It’s a broad offer that allows the other person to dictate what form of support they find most useful, whether it’s a listening ear, practical help, or just your presence.
Usage examples:
- After her surgery, I told Carol, “I’m here to support you in any way I can. Whether you need help around the house or just someone to chat with, I’m here.”
- When the project was overwhelming him, I made sure to say, “I’m here to support you in any way I can. Let’s tackle this together.”
10. I’m thinking of you during this tough time.
This phrase lets the person know they are in your thoughts, which can be incredibly comforting.
It’s a way to offer emotional support from afar, letting them know they are not forgotten and that they have people who care about their well-being even if they’re not physically present.
Usage examples:
- I’m thinking of you during this tough time, and sending you all my best wishes for a speedy recovery.
- Even though I couldn’t be there in person, I made sure to let her know, “I’m thinking of you during this tough time. If you need anything, I’m just a call away.”