consolation
14 synonyms and 2 antonyms for consolation, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Comfort given to someone after a loss, disappointment, or sadness.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use consolation
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French consolacion, from Latin consolatio, built on consolari, "to comfort" — con- plus solari, "to soothe."
Full origin of consolation →Frequently asked questions
What does “consolation” mean?
The word “consolation” means comfort given to someone after a loss, disappointment, or sadness. In plain terms, comfort after a disappointment, or a minor prize for someone who didn't win outright.
How do you pronounce “consolation”?
“Consolation” is pronounced kon-suh-LAY-shuhn (/ˌkɑn.səˈleɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “consolation” in a sentence?
Here is “consolation” used in a sentence: “It was little consolation to know they had tried their best.”
What is another word for “consolation”?
Words with a similar meaning to “consolation” include alleviation, comfort, ease, liss, release and relief.
What is the opposite of “consolation”?
The opposite of “consolation” — its antonyms — are distress and vexation.
What part of speech is “consolation”?
“Consolation” is a noun.
Where does the word “consolation” come from?
The word “consolation” comes from Latin. From Old French consolacion, from Latin consolatio, built on consolari, "to comfort" — con- plus solari, "to soothe.".
Is “consolation” a common word?
“Consolation” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "consolation" and "condolence"?
Consolation refers to the comfort itself given to someone after a loss, disappointment, or sadness, and can apply to everyday setbacks as well as grief. Condolence more narrowly refers to an expression of sympathy specifically about a death. You offer condolences after a bereavement, but consolation can follow any disappointing outcome.
What is a "consolation prize"?
A consolation prize is a small reward given to someone who competed but did not win the main competition, using the second sense of the word. It is meant to soften the disappointment of not winning the top prize.
Is "consolation" used in formal contexts?
Yes, "consolation" works comfortably in both formal and everyday speech, from formal letters offering comfort after a loss to casual remarks about a small consolation prize. Its tone shifts with context rather than being restricted to one register.