Consolation

ˌkɒnsəˈleɪʃən

nounIntermediateCommonBusiness

Definitions

1

The act of consoling or the state of being consoled; comfort received by a person after a loss or disappointment.

ˌkɒnsəˈleɪʃən

nounpositiveIntermediate
Business

Comfort received after a loss or disappointment.

The family found consolation in the support of their friends.

💡 Simply: It's like giving someone a hug and saying, "It's okay," when they're sad or upset. For example, when your best friend's pet dies and you help make them feel better.

👶 For kids: When you help someone feel better when they are sad.

More Examples

2

She offered him words of consolation after his defeat.

3

The small victory was the only consolation after the disaster.

How It's Used

General

"She offered him consolation after his loss."

Psychology

"The therapist provided consolation during the difficult time."

Idioms & expressions

Words of consolation

Expressing sympathy and comfort.

"She offered words of consolation to the grieving family."

From Latin *consolatio* ('a comforting, solace'), from *consolari* ('to comfort'), from *con-* ('with, together') + *solari* ('to soothe').

The word 'consolation' has been used since the late 14th century, evolving from the Old French and Latin roots of providing comfort and solace.

Memory tip

Think of a *solo* person receiving *con*fort, like a friend helping after a tough time.

consolationnconsulationconsolasion

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written