Going through the loss of a loved one is a difficult time in anyone's life, during which one's spiritual beliefs carry great importance. Therefore, when offering comfort to someone close, it is essential to recognize their customs and beliefs.

There are unique expressions present in every language to express condolences. As you can imagine there is no direct translation from one langage to another. The following examples may sound a bit harsh, but this is the way it's expressed in Chinese, and we're trying to provide an "exact" translation for you to fully understand.

Here are some examples to help you select the suitable phrases.

Condolences in Chinese: some examples

First of all 节哀顺变 (I'm sorry for your loss) is the most commonly used Chinese idiom to express condolences. You can make sentences around this idiom as you feel more confortable with. You should also be careful not to use 死 (die), but prefer use 去世/过世 (pass away).

Chinese (Pinyin)	Chinese	English
Zhè tài túránle. Xīwàng nǐ jié'āi	这太突然了。希望你节哀。	This happened too suddenly. Hope you will restrain your grief
Zhè tài túránle. Zhēn tì nǐ hé nǐ de jiārén gǎndào nánguò. Xīwàng nǐmen jié'āi shùnbiàn	这太突然了。真替你和你的家人感到难过。希望你们节哀顺变。	This happened too suddenly. I feel sad for you and your family. I hope that you will restrain your grief and adjust to the change
Xīwàng nǐ jiānqiáng yīdiǎn er.	希望你坚强一点儿。	Hope that you will be strong
Qǐng jiēshōu wǒ zuì zhēnchéng de āidào hé wèiwèn. Xīwàng nǐmen jié'āi shùnbiàn	请接收我最真诚的哀悼和慰问。希望你们节哀顺变	Please accept my sincere mourning and condolences. Hope that you will restrain your grief and adjust to the change.
Rúguǒ yuànyì, yǒu shé me shì dōu kěyǐ hé wǒ shuō	如果愿意，有什么事都可以和我说	If you are willing to talk, I am all ears
Xūyào bāngmáng dì dìfāng, qǐng suíshí gàosù wǒ	需要帮忙的地方，请随时告诉我	Please let me know if you need any help