Home Blog What To Write In A Sympathy Card For Someone You Don't Know Well - 30+ examples

What To Write In A Sympathy Card For Someone You Don't Know Well - 30+ examples

Photo of Valentin Hinov Valentin Hinov 24 January 2023
A bunch of pink roses

The passing of someone close to you is a tragedy. Everyone knows this. But when it comes time to write a sympathy card for someone you don’t know well, many people struggle to find the right words. It’s a delicate and sad situation all around.

The key to solving this conundrum is empathy. Imagine what kind of messages you would want to read in such a situation. You would expect sensitivity and a degree of formality. There is a particular gravity to these circumstances.

Not everyone is an expert writer, but you don’t have to be. Since we specialise in personalised cards at Thankbox, you should follow our tips on what to write in a sympathy card for someone you don’t know well.

What Is A Sympathy Card?

Sympathy cards are the best way to express condolences and offer support after someone loses a loved one. They are supposed to provide comfort during difficult occasions.

No matter how little you know someone, it’s only polite that you offer your condolences after someone near and dear to them passes away. Use a sympathy card to let them know you are keeping them in your thoughts. 

Why You Need To Get The Sympathy Card Right

Simplicity Is Key

A simple message shows sincerity. If you don’t know the recipient well, then it might not make sense to send them a lengthy sympathy message. A few words that express your condolences, and that you’re keeping them in your thoughts can be enough. 

Infuse Meaning

While it’s important to deal with this topic with sensitivity, that doesn’t mean you can’t let your personality shine through in the sympathy card. Just remember to be respectful. You could add a quote or passage from a book that you find meaningful and might comfort the recipient. That’s a great way to make your message stand out in a sea of “my deepest condolences”.

Offer Your Support

You shouldn’t just say that you know it’s hard. That’s putting the focus on you. You should probably add something else, like “don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you need anything”. 

Curating a card full of sympathy messages is a great way to let someone know that others share their pain. Offering condolences as a group will show that you’re all there in their time of need.

What To Remember Before You Write Your Condolences Card Message

Remember that above all, you should show empathy, not just sympathy. In some cases, empathy can mean that you don’t know the person well, so they would not feel comfortable seeing you go out of their way to talk about their family. In other cases, that might mean offering your full support.

In general, you should err on the side of caution with condolence messages. The most important thing is that you show you care.

PROMO

31 Sympathy Message Examples To Write In Your Condolences Card

11 Simple Condolence Card Messages

  • During this challenging time, I want you to know that we are all thinking about you and your family.

  • We wish you as much peace and comfort as possible while you cope with this loss.

  • I am extremely saddened to hear of your loss. Let me know if you need anything.

  • We are all standing behind you as you grieve and heal. 

  • Sorry for your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you while you heal.

  • With a heavy heart, I write to you hoping you take all the time you need to heal from your loss.

  • My deepest condolences during this time of sorrow.

  • During this trying time, I hope that you find strength in those that surround you.

  • Wishing you strength and comfort in this trying time.

  • Though they may be gone from this world, they will forever live in your memories and in your heart. Please accept my warmest condolences. 

  • Loss is a heavy burden to bear, but remember you have others around you who can make it easier to carry.

 10 Sympathy Messages For A Coworker Or Acquaintance

  • We are very sorry for your loss. I feel fortunate to know you and I am saddened that this has happened to you.

  • Sending you lots of love as you heal from this loss. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

  • Healing after loss can be difficult, but just remember, the whole team is here for you!

  • As you negotiate through this challenging period, please know that we are all behind you. Reach out to me if you need support.

  • I hope that you spend this time surrounded by your family and friends. Let me know if you need anything as you heal.

  • Please accept my sincerest condolences for your loss. I hope that you find solace in the fact that many people around you support you during this time.

  • Sorry for your loss! You’re in the thoughts and hearts of everyone here at the office. 

  • Sending love during these difficult times! Take as much time as you need to process everything.

  • Focus on healing and make sure work is the furthest thing from your mind. We’ll keep things tied down here until the time you return to us.

  • We’re sorry for your loss! Take as much time as you need, and remember that we’re here to help when you’re back.

10 Sympathy Messages To Mourn The Loss Of Family

  • I can’t imagine how difficult this period is for you. To lose someone who has been such a consistent force in your life must be heartbreaking. I hope you heal in due time.

  • Everyone carries their family in their hearts. Keep your family close to you – it’s the only thing we truly have. My sincerest condolences.

  • I was devastated to hear that you lost your family member. Please know that we all care about you and that you can reach out to me if you need anything.

  • I’m keeping you in my thoughts as you deal with this heartbreaking loss. My heart goes out to you as you cope.

  • I am sure that your loved one was incredibly lucky to have known you. Best wishes to you throughout the grieving process.

  • I offer you my condolences. We all support you and hope you find the strength to overcome these difficult circumstances.

  • A light was lost, but it will live on in you. My deepest sympathy for your loss. 

  • Losing family is always difficult, but they’ll live on in your memories and the stories you tell. I’m here if you want to share some of those memories. 

  • There are no words that will make this difficult process any easier. Just know, I’m always here to support you, with whatever you need. 

  • Losing family is hard, but just remember, you don’t have to go through it alone. All your family and friends are here for you. We’re here if you need to talk. 

Get It Right With Thankbox

If you’re assembling a group sympathy card for your team, then everyone must have a chance to contribute their message. Thankbox allows you to create a customisable card and let the entire team contribute virtually.

Adding notes, pictures, videos, and more to Thankbox is easy. It’s especially helpful to use visual content when you aren’t sure how to put your thoughts into writing.

PROMO


Photo by Valeriia Miller: Pexels