It is never easy to know what to say when someone is grieving. Even simple words can feel heavy when you want to offer comfort but are unsure how to express it. Short sympathy messages can make a real difference. They let someone know they are not alone and that their loss is recognised with care.
This article brings together a collection of short, heartfelt sympathy messages you can use in a card, text or online message. Each one is easy to copy or adapt so you can offer support in a way that feels sincere. Whether you are reaching out to a friend, family member or colleague, these sympathy card messages give you a gentle place to begin.
We also have a free guide with even more useful information on what to say when someone dies.
Short sympathy messages
These lines are simple and straightforward, ideal when you want to offer immediate support without searching for the perfect words. They work well in cards, texts or brief notes of condolence.
1. My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
2. I am so sorry for your loss.
3. Sending you love and strength today.
4. Keeping you close in my heart.
5. With my deepest sympathy at this sad time.
6. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
7. Thinking of you and your family.
8. Sending gentle thoughts your way.
Meaningful sympathy messages
These messages offer a little more depth while still being short and easy to use. They are thoughtful without being heavy, making them suitable for cards or when you want to express something more personal.
9. I hope you feel surrounded by care and support today.
10. Your loved one will always be remembered with warmth.
11. Wishing you courage as you face the days ahead.
12. I am here for you whenever you need me.
13. May you find moments of peace when you need them most.
14. Thinking of you as you honour the memory of someone so special.
15. You are in my thoughts during this difficult time.
16. Sending you strength as you navigate the days ahead.
Deepest sympathy messages
When the situation feels especially heavy, these messages offer sincere, steady support. They express care with a little more feeling while staying gentle and respectful.
17. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
18. Sending gentle thoughts as you move through this painful time.
19. I hope you feel the support of everyone who cares for you.
20. Holding you in my thoughts as you grieve.
21. With heartfelt sympathy for your loss.
22. Thinking of you and wishing you comfort and care.
Sympathy card messages for different situations
Every loss is unique, and every relationship is different. These short sympathy messages help you offer support that feels relevant to the person you are writing to. You can use them as they are or adapt the wording to reflect your own voice.
For a family member
Family losses can feel especially painful. These gentle lines acknowledge that shared grief and offer closeness and care.
23. Thinking of you and holding our family in my heart.
24. What a wonderful relationship you had, bringing each other such joy.
25. Keeping you close in my thoughts as we remember someone special.
For a friend
These messages are warm and steady, perfect when you want a friend to know you are there for them.
26. I am here for you and always just a message away.
27. Thinking of you and wishing you comfort today.
28. Holding you in my thoughts and sending you strength.
For a colleague
When you want to express sympathy in a professional or workplace setting, these messages keep your support sincere and respectful.
29. My sincere sympathy to you at this difficult time.
30. Thinking of you and hoping you find moments of peace.
Uplifting or hopeful sympathy messages
These lines offer a sense of gentle hope without diminishing the weight of grief. They are helpful when you want to express care in a calm and comforting way.
31. May you find gentle moments of calm today.
32. I hope you feel supported and cared for as you grieve.
33. Wishing you strength, peace and the kindness of those around you.
Use any of these sympathy messages as they are or shape them to reflect the way you would naturally speak. Even a short line can offer comfort, especially in the early days of grief when people may struggle to absorb longer messages. For more help with choosing the right words, take a look at our guide on what to say when someone dies or explore our collection of poems and readings that offer comfort and reflection.
