Condolence vs. Consolation

Condolencenoun

(uncountable) Comfort, support or sympathy.

‘There was not much to do after the accident but offer what condolence I could.’;

Consolationnoun

The act of consoling.

Condolencenoun

An expression of comfort, support, or sympathy offered to the family and friends of somebody who has died.

‘I sent her a card expressing my condolences after her mother passed away.’;

Consolationnoun

The prize or benefit for the loser.

Condolencenoun

Expression of sympathy with another in sorrow or grief.

‘Their congratulations and their condolences.’; ‘A special mission of condolence.’;

Consolationnoun

(sports) A consolation goal.

Condolencenoun

an expression of sympathy with another's grief;

‘they sent their condolences’;

Consolationnoun

The act of consoling; the state of being consoled; allevation of misery or distress of mind; refreshment of spirit; comfort; that which consoles or comforts the spirit.

‘Against such crueltiesWith inward consolations recompensed.’; ‘Are the consolations of God small with thee?’;

Consolationnoun

the comfort you feel when consoled in times of disappointment;

‘second place was no consolation to him’;

Consolationnoun

the act of consoling; giving relief in affliction;

‘his presence was a consolation to her’;

Consolation

Consolation, consolement, and solace are terms referring to psychological comfort given to someone who has suffered severe, upsetting loss, such as the death of a loved one. It is typically provided by expressing shared regret for that loss and highlighting the hope for positive events in the future.