On the death of her father, friends went to express their condolences.

Analyze the question

The sentence is: "On the death of her father, friends went to express their condolences." We need the word closest in meaning to "condolences."

Explain the concept

"Condolence" (usually plural, condolences) means an expression of sympathy and sorrow to someone who has suffered a loss, especially a bereavement. It comes from the Latin con- (with) and dolere (to grieve), so it literally means "to grieve with" someone.

Show the solution

Let's test each option:

• A. sympathy: This means feeling or expressing sorrow for someone else's grief. It is the closest match, because when you offer condolences, you are expressing sympathy.
• B. pity: This is feeling sorry for someone's misfortune, but it often carries a sense of looking down on the person. It is not the word used for comforting the bereaved.
• C. concerns: This means worries or matters of interest. It doesn't express sorrow over a loss.
• D. worries: This means anxieties. It doesn't fit the meaning of comforting someone who is grieving.

Identify the answer

The correct option is A. sympathy.

Exam tip

Remember: Condolence = "con" (with) + "dole" (sorrow), so it means sharing someone's sorrow. Whenever you see "condolences" in a bereavement context, think sympathy. Also, avoid choosing "pity" in such questions. It sounds close, but it's not the usual word for comforting someone who has lost a loved one.