condolence
Noun
Hard difficulty
What does “condolence” mean?
noun.an expression of sympathy, especially on the occasion of a death.
SAT Usage
This term often appears in contexts related to loss, grief, or support during difficult times, emphasizing the importance of empathy and human connection in response to tragedy. It differs from similar words like "sympathy," as it specifically denotes a formal expression of sorrow, often conveyed through messages or gestures, rather than a general feeling of compassion.
Common Confusions
Condolence implies a formal expression of sympathy, usually in response to death, while empathy usually suggests a more general understanding and sharing of feelings without the specific context of loss.
Example Sentences
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He offered sincere condolences to the grieving family.
Word Parts: How to Remember “condolence”
Break “condolence” into its parts: co- (together, with). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.
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Prefix:
co-together, with (Latin)