I'm sorry to hear that

You say this right after someone shares bad news. Keep your voice soft and low. Don't say it too fast or you might sound bored. You can add Oh at the beginning to sound more natural. For example: Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. It works for small things like a cold. It also works for bigger things like losing a job. It is very flexible and safe.

Use it when a friend says they are sick. Use it when a coworker mentions their car broke down. It is perfect for a neighbor whose cat ran away. It works great in professional emails too. If a client says they are busy, this phrase shows you understand. It bridges the gap between being a stranger and being a friend. Use it anytime someone isn't having a 10/10 day.

Don't use it for truly catastrophic, life-altering tragedies immediately. In those cases, I am so incredibly sorry for your loss is better. Also, don't use it if you are actually the cause of the problem. If you broke their vase, say I'm sorry I did that, not I'm sorry to hear that. That would sound like you are blaming the vase for breaking itself! Avoid using it sarcastically unless you want to lose friends.

English speakers, especially in the UK and US, love to acknowledge feelings without getting too emotional. This phrase is the perfect middle ground. It shows politeness and distance at the same time. It comes from a culture where 'keeping a stiff upper lip' was common. It allows you to be kind without needing to give a 20-minute speech. It is a social lubricant that keeps conversations moving smoothly.

You can shorten it to Sorry to hear that with friends. For more impact, try I'm so sorry to hear that. If you want to sound more formal, use I was saddened to hear that. In a text, some people just write So sorry to hear!. All of these carry the same warm energy. Just pick the one that fits your energy level at the moment.