Alternatives to “Sorry to Hear That”: A Comprehensive Guide
Expressing sympathy is a crucial part of effective communication. When someone shares bad news, responding with empathy and understanding is essential.
While “Sorry to hear that” is a common phrase, it can sometimes feel repetitive or insufficient. This article explores a wide range of alternative expressions, providing you with the tools to offer more nuanced and heartfelt condolences.
Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply looking to improve your communication skills, understanding these alternatives will enhance your ability to connect with others and offer genuine support.
This guide breaks down various ways to express sympathy, categorizing them by formality, intensity, and specific contexts. By understanding the nuances of each phrase, you can choose the most appropriate response for any situation.
We’ll also cover common mistakes to avoid and provide practice exercises to solidify your understanding. Mastering these alternatives will enable you to communicate more effectively and empathetically, strengthening your relationships and fostering deeper connections.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition: Expressing Sympathy
- Structural Breakdown of Sympathetic Phrases
- Types and Categories of Sympathetic Expressions
- Examples of Sympathetic Phrases
- Usage Rules for Expressing Sympathy
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics in Expressing Sympathy
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Definition: Expressing Sympathy
Expressing sympathy involves conveying feelings of compassion, understanding, and support to someone who is experiencing hardship, sorrow, or misfortune. It’s a way to acknowledge their pain and offer comfort during a difficult time.
The act of expressing sympathy can range from simple verbal condolences to more involved actions, such as offering practical assistance or simply being present to listen.
The function of expressing sympathy is multifaceted. Primarily, it aims to provide emotional support and validation to the person suffering.
It also serves to strengthen social bonds and reinforce the idea that the individual is not alone in their struggles. Effective expressions of sympathy are genuine, appropriate for the context, and tailored to the individual’s needs.
The context in which sympathy is expressed significantly affects the choice of words and actions. For instance, a formal setting, such as a workplace, might require a more reserved and professional approach, while a close friendship allows for more informal and personal expressions.
Understanding these contextual nuances is crucial for delivering a message that is both supportive and respectful.
Structural Breakdown of Sympathetic Phrases
Sympathetic phrases are typically structured around a few key elements: an expression of regret or sorrow, an acknowledgment of the person’s feelings, and potentially an offer of support or a comforting sentiment. The specific arrangement and emphasis of these elements can vary depending on the desired tone and context.
Common structures include:
- “I’m so sorry to hear about [the situation].” This structure directly expresses regret and identifies the cause of the sorrow.
- “That’s terrible news. How are you holding up?” This combines an acknowledgment of the severity of the news with a question showing concern for the person’s well-being.
- “My heart goes out to you and your family.” This expresses deep empathy and extends sympathy to the person’s loved ones.
- “If there’s anything I can do, please don’t hesitate to ask.” This offers practical support and reinforces the person’s ability to seek help.
The choice of vocabulary also plays a crucial role. Strong verbs like “grieve,” “mourn,” and “lament” can convey deeper empathy, while gentler words like “sad,” “unfortunate,” and “difficult” are suitable for less severe situations.
Adjectives like “devastating,” “heartbreaking,” and “tragic” can emphasize the gravity of the situation, while “challenging,” “tough,” and “trying” suggest resilience and hope.
Types and Categories of Sympathetic Expressions
General Sympathy
These are common, versatile expressions suitable for a wide range of situations. They are generally safe and appropriate for most contexts, whether formal or informal.
The key is to deliver them with sincerity.
Empathetic Statements
These phrases aim to show that you understand and share the person’s feelings. They demonstrate that you are trying to put yourself in their shoes and acknowledge their emotional experience.
Empathetic statements often involve using “I” statements to connect with the person’s feelings.
Offers of Support
These expressions go beyond simple condolences and offer practical or emotional assistance. They let the person know that you are willing to help in any way you can.
Offers of support can be particularly meaningful during difficult times, as they provide concrete assistance and reduce feelings of isolation.
Acknowledging Loss
These phrases are specifically designed for situations involving loss, such as the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or the loss of a job. They directly address the sense of grief and sadness associated with the loss and offer comfort during the bereavement process.
Formal Expressions
These expressions are suitable for professional settings or when addressing someone you don’t know well. They are typically more reserved and avoid overly emotional language.
Formal expressions are often used in written communication, such as emails or letters.
Informal Expressions
These phrases are appropriate for close friends, family members, or colleagues with whom you have a comfortable relationship. They allow for more personal and emotional language.
Informal expressions often include slang or colloquialisms.
Examples of Sympathetic Phrases
The following tables provide a comprehensive list of alternative phrases to “Sorry to hear that,” categorized by the types discussed above. Each table includes a variety of options, ranging from simple condolences to more detailed expressions of support.
The goal is to equip you with a diverse vocabulary for expressing sympathy in different contexts.
General Sympathy Examples
This table presents a range of general sympathy phrases suitable for various situations. These phrases are versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| That’s awful to hear. | When someone shares bad news about a situation. |
| I’m so sorry you’re going through this. | When someone is experiencing a difficult challenge. |
| That sounds incredibly difficult. | When someone describes a tough experience. |
| I can only imagine how hard that must be. | When you want to acknowledge the person’s struggle. |
| That’s just terrible. | When someone shares particularly upsetting news. |
| I’m really saddened to hear that. | When you want to express your genuine sadness. |
| What a shame! | When someone shares disappointing news. |
| I’m so sorry that happened to you. | When someone has experienced a misfortune. |
| That’s really unfortunate. | When someone shares news about bad luck or setbacks. |
| I’m truly sorry to hear that. | A sincere expression of sympathy. |
| I am so sorry. | A simple and heartfelt expression of sympathy. |
| Oh no, that’s terrible! | An expression of shock and sympathy. |
| I’m very sorry for what you are going through. | A more formal and empathetic expression. |
| That’s just awful. | Expressing strong sympathy for a bad situation. |
| I feel so bad for you. | Expressing empathy and concern. |
| I am sorry to hear that things are so tough right now. | Acknowledging a difficult period in someone’s life. |
| How awful! | Expressing strong sympathy and dismay. |
| That’s a real shame. | Expressing disappointment and regret. |
| I am so sorry this has happened. | Expressing sympathy for a specific event. |
| That’s just heartbreaking. | Expressing deep sorrow and compassion. |
| This is incredibly unfortunate. | Expressing sympathy for bad luck or a negative outcome. |
| I’m so sorry to learn about this. | Expressing regret upon hearing bad news. |
| That sounds absolutely dreadful. | Expressing strong sympathy and concern. |
| I’m deeply sorry. | A profound expression of sympathy. |
| That’s so upsetting to hear. | Expressing sympathy for something distressing. |
Empathetic Statements Examples
This table showcases empathetic statements that aim to connect with the person’s feelings and show understanding. These phrases demonstrate that you are trying to put yourself in their shoes and acknowledge their emotional experience.
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| I can only imagine how you must be feeling. | When you want to acknowledge the person’s emotional state. |
| That must be incredibly frustrating. | When someone is dealing with a frustrating situation. |
| I understand how upsetting that must be. | When someone shares news that is clearly distressing. |
| I know how much this meant to you. | When someone has lost something important. |
| I can’t imagine what you’re going through. | When you want to acknowledge the depth of their pain. |
| I’m sure that’s not easy to deal with. | When someone is facing a challenging situation. |
| I get how you must be feeling. | When you want to show empathy and understanding. |
| That sounds like a really tough situation. | Acknowledging the difficulty of the person’s experience. |
| I feel for you. | A simple and direct expression of empathy. |
| I know this must be hard for you. | Acknowledging the difficulty of the situation. |
| I completely understand how you feel. | Showing deep empathy and validation. |
| I can only imagine the pain you’re experiencing. | Acknowledging intense emotional distress. |
| I understand what you’re going through. | Showing empathy based on similar experiences. |
| I know how much this matters to you. | Acknowledging the importance of something lost or affected. |
| I feel your pain. | Expressing deep empathy and shared sorrow. |
| I know this is a really tough time for you. | Acknowledging a difficult period in someone’s life. |
| I understand how devastating this must be. | Acknowledging the severity of a loss or setback. |
| I truly empathize with what you’re going through. | Expressing genuine understanding and shared feelings. |
| I know how frustrating that can be. | Acknowledging the difficulty of a frustrating situation. |
| I understand the disappointment you must feel. | Acknowledging feelings of disappointment. |
| I know how much you were looking forward to this. | Acknowledging someone’s anticipation and subsequent disappointment. |
| I can only imagine the stress you’re under. | Acknowledging the high level of stress someone is experiencing. |
| I know how difficult it is to deal with this. | Acknowledging the challenges of a specific situation. |
| I understand how overwhelming this must feel. | Acknowledging feelings of being overwhelmed. |
| I get how upsetting this is for you. | Acknowledging someone’s distress. |
Offers of Support Examples
This table provides phrases that offer practical or emotional support to the person in need. These expressions go beyond simple condolences and let the person know that you are willing to help in any way you can.
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| Is there anything I can do to help? | A general offer of assistance. |
| Please let me know if you need anything at all. | Reiterating your willingness to help. |
| I’m here for you if you need to talk. | Offering emotional support and a listening ear. |
| Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything. | Encouraging the person to ask for help. |
| I’m happy to help with [specific task] if you need it. | Offering specific assistance with a particular task. |
| Let me know if there’s anything I can take off your plate. | Offering to help with responsibilities. |
| I’m thinking of you and sending positive vibes. | Offering emotional support and encouragement. |
| I’m just a phone call away if you need anything. | Reassuring the person that you are available. |
| How can I support you during this time? | Actively seeking ways to help. |
| I’m here to listen if you need to vent. | Offering a non-judgmental listening ear. |
| I’m here for you, always. | Expressing unwavering support. |
| Please don’t hesitate to call if you need anything, day or night. | Offering support at any time. |
| If you need someone to talk to, I’m here. | Offering emotional support and conversation. |
| I’m happy to help with errands or anything else you need. | Offering practical assistance. |
| Let me know if you need a break; I’m here to help. | Offering to give someone a break from their responsibilities. |
| Don’t hesitate to lean on me if you need support. | Encouraging someone to rely on you. |
| I’m here to support you in any way possible. | Offering comprehensive support. |
| If there’s anything at all I can do, please ask. | Reiterating your willingness to help. |
| I’m sending you all my love and support. | Offering emotional support and affection. |
| I’m available to help with anything you need. | Offering general assistance. |
| Can I bring you anything? | Offering to provide food, supplies, or other items. |
| Is there anything I can do to make things easier? | Offering to simplify or alleviate a burden. |
| I’m here to help in whatever way you need. | Offering to assist in any capacity. |
| You can count on me to be there for you. | Assuring someone of your reliability. |
| I’m ready to step in and help with anything. | Offering to take action and assist. |
Acknowledging Loss Examples
This table presents phrases specifically designed for situations involving loss, such as the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or the loss of a job. These phrases directly address the sense of grief and sadness associated with the loss and offer comfort during the bereavement process.
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| I’m so sorry for your loss. | A common and respectful expression of sympathy for a death. |
| My condolences to you and your family. | Extending sympathy to the person and their family. |
| I was so saddened to hear about [name]’s passing. | Expressing sadness upon hearing of someone’s death. |
| They will be deeply missed. | Acknowledging the impact of the person’s absence. |
| My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. | Offering support and thoughts during a period of grief. |
| I’m thinking of you and your family. | Extending support to the person and their family. |
| Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. | Acknowledging the inadequacy of words in the face of grief. |
| May their memory be a blessing. | A traditional expression of hope and remembrance. |
| I am deeply saddened by the news of [name]’s passing. | Expressing profound sorrow at someone’s death. |
| They were a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. | Acknowledging the positive qualities of the deceased. |
| My deepest sympathy for your loss. | A sincere expression of condolence. |
| I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of [name]. | Expressing sympathy for the death of someone. |
| My heart goes out to you and your family during this difficult time. | Offering heartfelt sympathy and support. |
| Please accept my heartfelt condolences. | A formal expression of sympathy. |
| I’m thinking of you and sending my love. | Offering emotional support and affection. |
| I am so sorry for your bereavement. | A formal expression of sympathy for a loss. |
| My thoughts are with you as you grieve. | Offering support during the grieving process. |
| I will always remember [name] fondly. | Sharing a positive memory of the deceased. |
| They were a truly remarkable person. | Acknowledging the exceptional qualities of the deceased. |
| I’m here to support you in any way I can during this time. | Offering comprehensive support during a difficult period. |
| Losing someone is never easy. | Acknowledging the universal difficulty of loss. |
| I wish you strength and comfort during this time. | Offering wishes for resilience and solace. |
| They will be forever in our hearts. | Expressing enduring remembrance. |
| Their legacy will live on. | Expressing that their impact remains. |
| I am so sorry for this profound loss. | Expressing sympathy for a deep sense of loss. |
Formal Expressions Examples
This table provides phrases suitable for professional settings or when addressing someone you don’t know well. These expressions are typically more reserved and avoid overly emotional language.
Formal expressions are often used in written communication, such as emails or letters.
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| Please accept my sincere condolences. | A formal expression of sympathy, often used in writing. |
| I was deeply saddened to learn of [the situation]. | A formal way to express sadness upon hearing bad news. |
| My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. | A professional and respectful expression of support. |
| I extend my sympathies to you and your family. | A formal way to express sympathy to the person and their family. |
| We are very sorry to hear of your loss. | A formal expression of sympathy, often used in a business context. |
| Please accept our deepest sympathies. | A highly formal expression of condolence. |
| I am writing to express my condolences. | A formal opening for a sympathy letter or email. |
| The team and I are thinking of you. | Expressing support from a group or organization. |
| We were very sorry to hear about [the event]. | A formal expression of sympathy for a specific event. |
| Please do not hesitate to reach out if we can be of any assistance. | A formal offer of support in a professional context. |
| I wish to express my deepest sympathy. | A very formal and respectful expression. |
| Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss. | Expressing sincere and deep condolence. |
| Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. | A formal expression of support and sympathy. |
| We extend our sincere condolences to you and your family. | Expressing sympathy to both the individual and their family. |
| We are deeply sorry for your loss. | Expressing profound sorrow in a formal manner. |
| I am deeply saddened to learn of your situation. | Formally expressing sorrow upon hearing bad news. |
| Please accept our collective condolences. | Expressing sympathy on behalf of a group. |
| We are thinking of you and your loved ones. | Formally offering support and sympathy. |
| We offer our deepest sympathy during this difficult time. | Expressing profound sympathy in a formal setting. |
| Please let us know if there is anything we can do to support you. | A formal offer of assistance. |
| The company extends its deepest sympathy. | Expressing sympathy on behalf of a company. |
| We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate news. | Expressing sorrow for unfortunate events. |
| Our sincere condolences on your recent loss. | Offering sympathy for a recent loss or bereavement. |
| We are profoundly sorry to hear of your hardship. | Expressing deep sympathy for someone’s difficulties. |
| Please be assured of our support during this challenging time. | Offering assurance of support in a formal context. |
Informal Expressions Examples
This table provides phrases appropriate for close friends, family members, or colleagues with whom you have a comfortable relationship. These expressions allow for more personal and emotional language.
Informal expressions often include slang or colloquialisms.
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| That sucks! | An informal expression of sympathy for a bad situation. |
| I’m so bummed to hear that. | An informal way to express disappointment and sympathy. |
| Ugh, that’s just the worst. | An informal expression of frustration and sympathy. |
| What a drag! | An informal expression of disappointment. |
| I feel ya. | An informal way to express empathy. |
| That’s rough, buddy. | An informal expression of sympathy and support. |
| Hang in there! | An informal expression of encouragement. |
| Sending you good vibes. | An informal way to offer support and positivity. |
| I’m here if you need anything, seriously. | An informal and sincere offer of support. |
| That’s just messed up. | An informal expression of anger and sympathy. |
| That’s awful, dude! | An informal expression of sympathy among friends. |
| I’m so gutted to hear that. | An informal British expression of disappointment and sympathy. |
| That’s a real bummer. | An informal expression of disappointment. |
| I can’t believe that happened to you! | Expressing shock and sympathy. |
| That’s so harsh. | An informal way to express sympathy for a difficult situation. |
| I’m so sorry, mate. | An informal expression of sympathy (common in British English). |
| That’s rough. | An informal way to acknowledge a tough situation. |
| Hang tough! | An informal expression of encouragement to persevere. |
| Sending you all the good vibes. | An informal way to express positive support. |
| I’m totally here for you if you need anything. | An informal and sincere offer of support. |
| That’s just plain crummy. | An informal expression of disappointment. |
| What a bummer! | An informal expression of disappointment. |
| That’s a drag. | An informal expression of disappointment. |
| I totally feel your pain. | An informal way to express empathy. |
| That’s a tough break. | An informal expression of sympathy for bad luck. |
Usage Rules for Expressing Sympathy
Expressing sympathy effectively requires sensitivity and awareness of the specific situation and the relationship with the person you are addressing. Here are some key usage rules to consider:
- Be genuine: Sincerity is paramount. People can often sense insincerity, which can be more harmful than saying nothing at all.
- Be appropriate: Tailor your expression to the context. A formal setting requires a more reserved approach, while a close friendship allows for more personal language.
- Be specific: Vague expressions can feel impersonal. Acknowledge the specific situation and show that you understand what the person is going through.
- Listen actively: Offer a listening ear and allow the person to express their feelings without interruption. Sometimes, simply being present and attentive is the most effective form of support.
- Avoid clichés: Overused phrases can sound insincere or dismissive. Opt for more personal and heartfelt expressions.
- Offer practical support: If appropriate, offer concrete assistance, such as running errands, providing meals, or helping with childcare.
- Respect boundaries: Be mindful of the person’s boundaries and avoid pushing them to share more than they are comfortable with.
- Follow up: Check in with the person after the initial expression of sympathy to see how they are doing and offer continued support.
It’s also important to consider cultural differences in expressing sympathy. What is considered appropriate in one culture may be offensive in another.
Research and be mindful of cultural norms to avoid unintentional offense.
Finally, remember that expressing sympathy is not about you. It’s about providing support and comfort to the person in need.
Keep the focus on their feelings and experiences, and avoid making the situation about yourself.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with good intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when expressing sympathy. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Offering unsolicited advice: Unless specifically asked, avoid giving advice. The person may simply need to vent or be heard.
- Minimizing the person’s feelings: Avoid phrases like “It could be worse” or “At least…” These statements invalidate the person’s emotions and can make them feel unheard.
- Comparing their experience to your own: While sharing similar experiences can sometimes be helpful, avoid making the conversation about yourself. Keep the focus on the person’s feelings and needs.
- Saying “I know how you feel” when you don’t: Unless you have experienced the exact same situation, avoid this phrase. It can come across as insincere or dismissive.
- Pressuring the person to “look on the bright side”: While optimism can be helpful, it’s important to allow the person to grieve or process their emotions before pushing them to be positive.
- Avoiding the topic altogether: Ignoring the person’s situation can make them feel isolated and unsupported. Acknowledge their pain and offer your support, even if you don’t know what to say.
- Saying something just to fill the silence: Sometimes, silence is the most appropriate response. Allow the person to process their emotions without feeling pressured to talk.
Here are some examples of correct vs. incorrect expressions:
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| “At least you still have your health.” | “I’m so sorry you’re going through this.” |
| “I know exactly how you feel.” | “I can only imagine how difficult this must be.” |
| “You’ll get over it.” | “Take all the time you need to heal.” |
| “Just try to stay positive.” | “I’m here for you if you need to talk.” |
| (Silence, avoiding the topic) | “I heard about what happened. I’m so sorry.” |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of alternative ways to say “Sorry to hear that” with these practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Choose the best response.
Select the most appropriate response from the options provided for each scenario.
| Scenario | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| A colleague tells you they didn’t get the promotion they wanted. | a) “There will be other opportunities.” b) “I’m so sorry to hear that. That must be disappointing.” c) “I knew you wouldn’t get it.” | b) “I’m so sorry to hear that. That must be disappointing.” |
| A friend tells you their pet passed away. | a) “It was just an animal.” b) “I’m so sorry for your loss. They were a part of your family.” c) “You can always get another one.” | b) “I’m so sorry for your loss. They were a part of your family.” |
| A family member tells you they lost their job. | a) “Maybe it’s a blessing in disguise.” b) “I’m so sorry to hear that. Is there anything I can do to help?” c) “I
told you that job wasn’t stable.” |
b) “I’m so sorry to hear that. Is there anything I can do to help?” |
Exercise 2: Rewrite the sentence.
Rewrite the following sentences to express sympathy in a more nuanced and heartfelt way.
- Original: “Sorry to hear that your flight was cancelled.”
Rewritten: “Oh no, that’s awful! I can only imagine how frustrating that must be, especially if you had important plans.” - Original: “Sorry to hear that you failed the exam.”
Rewritten: “I’m so sorry to hear that. I know how much you studied. Is there anything I can do to help you prepare for the next one?” - Original: “Sorry to hear that you’re sick.”
Rewritten: “That’s terrible! I hope you feel better soon. Let me know if you need anything, like soup or medicine.”
Exercise 3: Role-playing.
Practice expressing sympathy in different scenarios with a friend or family member. Take turns sharing bad news and responding with empathy and support.
Focus on using a variety of phrases and tailoring your response to the specific situation.
Advanced Topics in Expressing Sympathy
Beyond the basic expressions of sympathy, there are more advanced techniques to consider for particularly sensitive or complex situations. These include:
- Non-verbal communication: Body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice play a crucial role in conveying sincerity and empathy. Maintain eye contact, nod to show understanding, and use a warm and gentle tone.
- Cultural sensitivity: Be aware of cultural differences in expressing sympathy. Some cultures may prefer more reserved expressions, while others may be more open and emotional.
- Grief counseling techniques: In situations involving significant loss, consider using basic grief counseling techniques, such as active listening, validating emotions, and offering support without judgment.
- Spiritual support: If appropriate, offer spiritual support, such as prayer or a comforting religious message. However, be mindful of the person’s beliefs and avoid imposing your own views.
- Professional boundaries: In professional settings, maintain appropriate boundaries and avoid becoming overly involved in the person’s personal life. Offer support within the scope of your professional role.
Mastering these advanced techniques requires practice and a deep understanding of human emotions. Consider taking courses or workshops on communication skills, empathy, and grief counseling to further enhance your abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is it appropriate to offer practical help?
It’s appropriate to offer practical help when you have a close relationship with the person and you are genuinely able to provide assistance without burdening yourself. Start by asking if they need anything specific and be prepared to follow through on your offer.
How can I avoid saying the wrong thing?
The best way to avoid saying the wrong thing is to listen actively, be genuine, and avoid clichés. Focus on validating the person’s feelings and offering support without judgment.
If you’re unsure what to say, simply acknowledge their pain and let them know you’re there for them.
What if I don’t know the person well?
If you don’t know the person well, opt for more formal and reserved expressions of sympathy. A simple “I’m so sorry to hear that” or “My thoughts are with you” can be appropriate.
Avoid getting too personal or offering unsolicited advice.
How do I support someone who doesn’t want to talk about it?
Respect their boundaries and avoid pressuring them to share more than they are comfortable with. Let them know that you are there for them if they ever need to talk, and offer support in other ways, such as providing practical assistance or simply being present.
What if I’m not a naturally empathetic person?
Empathy is a skill that can be learned and developed. Practice active listening, try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes, and focus on understanding their feelings.
Over time, you can become more empathetic and better able to offer support.
Conclusion
Expressing sympathy is a vital skill that can strengthen relationships and provide comfort during difficult times. While “Sorry to hear that” is a common phrase, mastering a range of alternative expressions will enable you to communicate more effectively and empathetically.
By understanding the nuances of different phrases, avoiding common mistakes, and practicing your skills, you can become a more supportive and compassionate communicator. Remember to be genuine, appropriate, and specific in your expressions, and always prioritize the needs and feelings of the person you are addressing.
With practice and awareness, you can offer meaningful support and make a positive impact on the lives of others.