50+ Other Ways to Say "That Sucks" (With Examples)

Expressing empathy or understanding can be challenging, especially when the go-to phrase “That sucks” might feel a little too casual or even dismissive. Finding thoughtful ways to express compassion can help strengthen bonds and provide comfort.

In this article, you’ll find 30 meaningful alternatives to communicate warmth and care, whether in personal conversations or professional settings. Use these phrases to create a connection and show genuine empathy when someone shares something difficult with you.

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What Does That Sucks Mean?

The phrase “That sucks” is a casual expression used to acknowledge a tough or unfortunate situation someone else is experiencing. While common in informal language, it may not always convey the depth of empathy needed for certain situations, especially when more genuine, personalized responses could be more appropriate.

When to Use That Sucks

“That sucks” is often used when friends or colleagues share disappointing or upsetting news, and a short, sympathetic response is enough. However, it’s best suited for informal settings where people understand the casual tone, like among close friends or familiar coworkers. If the situation calls for deeper empathy, consider using an alternative.

Is It Professional or Polite to Say That Sucks?

In professional environments, “That sucks” may come off as too casual, and its informality might undermine your message of support. Using a more thoughtful alternative will often feel more professional and convey respect, especially when speaking with clients, managers, or colleagues. Try one of the alternatives below for a message that’s both empathetic and polite.

That Sucks Synonyms:

I’m So Sorry to Hear That
That Must Be Really Hard for You
I Can’t Imagine How You Must Feel
That Sounds Really Challenging
I’m Here for You
It’s Understandable to Feel That Way
That’s Really Unfortunate
I Wish Things Were Different
That Must Be So Frustrating
I’m Thinking of You
That Sounds Really Tough
That’s Definitely Not Easy to Handle
I’m Sorry This Happened to You
That’s Really Rough
That’s a Lot to Deal With
I Can See Why You’d Feel That Way
That’s So Disheartening
I’m Really Sorry This Happened to You
I Wish Things Were Going Better for You
That’s Got to Be So Draining
I’m Sorry You’re Dealing With This
I Understand Why You Feel Upset
That’s So Unfair
I’m Here to Listen Anytime
I Hope Things Get Better Soon
That’s Really a Lot to Handle
I Can See How This is Taking a Toll on You
It’s OK to Feel Upset About This
I Can’t Believe You’re Going Through This
It’s Hard to See You Going Through This

Casual Alternatives to “That Sucks”

Sometimes, you just need to express disappointment in a casual way without sounding too harsh. Try these:

“That’s a bummer.”
“Ugh, that’s rough.”
“That’s unfortunate.”
“Man, that’s not great.”
“Yikes, that’s tough.”

Professional Ways to Say “That Sucks”

If you’re in a workplace or formal setting, using professional language is key. Here are some polished alternatives:

“That’s really unfortunate.”
“I’m sorry to hear that.”
“That must be frustrating.”
“That’s disappointing to hear.”
“I can understand how that would be difficult.”

Sympathetic Alternatives

When someone shares bad news, showing empathy can go a long way. Try these:

“That must be tough.”
“I can’t imagine how frustrating that is.”
“That’s not what you wanted to hear, I’m sure.”
“That sounds really difficult.”
“I hate that for you.”

Funny or Lighthearted Ways to Say It

Sometimes, a little humor helps lighten the mood:

“Well, that’s a dumpster fire.”
“That’s a tough cookie to crumble.”
“Oof, major bummer vibes.”
“Big yikes!”
“That’s a no from the universe.”

Slang and Informal Alternatives

If you want to keep it super casual or trendy, try these:

“That’s an L.”
“That’s brutal.”
“Man, that’s whack.”
“Well, that’s trash.”
“That’s pain, bro.”

Synonyms for “That Sucks”

If you’re looking for more direct replacements, here are some synonyms:

“That stinks.”
“That’s lame.”
“That’s a drag.”
“That’s dreadful.”
“That’s annoying.”

Softer Alternatives for Polite Situations

If you don’t want to sound too negative but still acknowledge the situation, try these:

“That’s not ideal.”
“That’s less than great.”
“That’s really unfortunate.”
“That’s not the best news.”
“That’s a tough break.”

1. I’m So Sorry to Hear That

Meaning: Expresses genuine sympathy and acknowledges the other person’s difficulty.
Tone: Empathetic and respectful
Example: “I’m so sorry to hear that. If there’s anything I can do, please let me know.”
Explanation: This phrase directly addresses the other person’s struggles, showing that you’re truly sorry for their misfortune.

2. That Must Be Really Hard for You

Meaning: Validates the other person’s experience, showing you understand their situation is tough.
Tone: Compassionate and empathetic
Example: “That must be really hard for you. I can only imagine what you’re going through.”
Explanation: By acknowledging the difficulty, you’re empathizing with their emotions, which can feel comforting.

3. I Can’t Imagine How You Must Feel

Meaning: Recognizes the emotional weight of their situation without assuming you understand it fully.
Tone: Sincere and thoughtful
Example: “I can’t imagine how you must feel. Let me know if there’s any way I can support you.”
Explanation: This expression shows respect for their unique feelings and offers gentle support.

4. That Sounds Really Challenging

Meaning: Acknowledges the difficulty they’re facing in a calm, understanding manner.
Tone: Understanding and supportive
Example: “That sounds really challenging. I’m here if you need to talk more about it.”
Explanation: This phrase validates their experience without any assumptions, showing you’re willing to listen.

5. I’m Here for You

Meaning: Offers emotional support without needing to fully comprehend the situation.
Tone: Reassuring and kind
Example: “I’m here for you, no matter what. Just let me know if you need anything.”
Explanation: A powerful phrase that emphasizes your availability and support.

6. It’s Understandable to Feel That Way

Meaning: Validates their emotions and normalizes their reaction to the situation.
Tone: Reassuring and comforting
Example: “It’s understandable to feel that way given everything you’re going through.”
Explanation: This response respects their emotions and shows you’re listening without judgment.

7. That’s Really Unfortunate

Meaning: A more formal way of acknowledging their bad experience.
Tone: Polite and empathetic
Example: “That’s really unfortunate. I’m sorry you have to go through this.”
Explanation: This phrase works well in both personal and professional contexts, showing empathy without being overly casual.

8. I Wish Things Were Different

Meaning: Expresses a desire for a more positive outcome for them.
Tone: Empathetic and warm
Example: “I wish things were different for you. Please know I’m here to help in any way.”
Explanation: This phrase subtly expresses regret and care for the person’s hardship.

9. That Must Be So Frustrating

Meaning: Acknowledges the frustration that comes with their situation.
Tone: Empathetic and understanding
Example: “That must be so frustrating. Let me know if you want to talk it out.”
Explanation: By naming the frustration, you’re showing you can relate to their emotional experience.

10. I’m Thinking of You

Meaning: A simple way to show you care about their well-being.
Tone: Gentle and thoughtful
Example: “I’m thinking of you and hoping things improve soon.”
Explanation: This phrase is brief but conveys genuine care, especially helpful when you don’t know what else to say.

11. That Sounds Really Tough

Meaning: Acknowledges the hardship without minimizing it.
Tone: Empathetic and straightforward
Example: “That sounds really tough. I’m sorry you have to deal with this.”
Explanation: This phrase expresses sympathy without going too deep, making it ideal for brief exchanges.

12. That’s Definitely Not Easy to Handle

Meaning: Recognizes the difficulty of the situation.
Tone: Supportive and considerate
Example: “That’s definitely not easy to handle. I hope things start looking up for you.”
Explanation: This expression acknowledges the challenge and offers encouragement.

13. I’m Sorry This Happened to You

Meaning: Acknowledges the misfortune of their experience.
Tone: Warm and sincere
Example: “I’m sorry this happened to you. You didn’t deserve that.”
Explanation: This phrase expresses regret and emphasizes your empathy for their situation.

14. That’s Really Rough

Meaning: Acknowledges the severity of their situation in a relatable way.
Tone: Casual but empathetic
Example: “That’s really rough. I’m here if you need a friend.”
Explanation: It’s conversational and straightforward, making it suitable for informal exchanges.

15. That’s a Lot to Deal With

Meaning: Recognizes the weight of their circumstances.
Tone: Understanding and empathetic
Example: “That’s a lot to deal with. I’m here if you need support.”
Explanation: This phrase validates their experience, offering a safe space for them to express themselves.

16. I Can See Why You’d Feel That Way

Meaning: Validates their feelings by acknowledging their perspective.
Tone: Empathetic and understanding
Example: “I can see why you’d feel that way. It’s completely normal to be upset.”
Explanation: This response shows you’re not only listening but also respecting their emotional reaction, which can help them feel understood.

17. That’s So Disheartening

Meaning: Expresses sympathy for their disappointment or discouragement.
Tone: Compassionate and gentle
Example: “That’s so disheartening to hear. I’m really sorry you’re going through this.”
Explanation: This phrase captures the emotional weight of their experience without sounding overly casual, making it suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

18. I’m Really Sorry This Happened to You

Meaning: Directly expresses sympathy and regret over their situation.
Tone: Warm and genuine
Example: “I’m really sorry this happened to you. You didn’t deserve this at all.”
Explanation: This phrase conveys sincere empathy and acknowledges the unfortunate nature of their experience, making it a heartfelt response.

19. I Wish Things Were Going Better for You

Meaning: A gentle way to express hope for a better outcome.
Tone: Supportive and optimistic
Example: “I wish things were going better for you. I’m here for anything you need.”
Explanation: This response conveys a desire for improvement and shows you care about their well-being.

20. That’s Got to Be So Draining

Meaning: Recognizes the toll the situation is taking on them.
Tone: Empathetic and understanding
Example: “That’s got to be so draining. Make sure you take time for yourself.”
Explanation: This phrase validates their fatigue and encourages them to care for themselves, showing a well-rounded sense of empathy.

21. I’m Sorry You’re Dealing With This

Meaning: Expresses regret that they’re facing such a challenge.
Tone: Gentle and supportive
Example: “I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. It’s just not fair.”
Explanation: This phrase is both empathetic and non-judgmental, showing sympathy without minimizing their experience.

22. I Understand Why You Feel Upset

Meaning: Acknowledges their emotions and shows you’re paying attention.
Tone: Compassionate and validating
Example: “I understand why you feel upset. This would be difficult for anyone.”
Explanation: This response respects their feelings and shows you’re not just hearing them but truly understanding them.

23. That’s So Unfair

Meaning: Acknowledges the injustice or unfairness of the situation.
Tone: Supportive and empathetic
Example: “That’s so unfair. I’m sorry you have to go through this.”
Explanation: This phrase validates their sense of unfairness, which can provide comfort and solidarity.

24. I’m Here to Listen Anytime

Meaning: Offers your presence and willingness to listen whenever needed.
Tone: Reassuring and patient
Example: “I’m here to listen anytime. Just reach out if you need someone to talk to.”
Explanation: This phrase is helpful when you want to offer ongoing support without pressure.

25. I Hope Things Get Better Soon

Meaning: Expresses optimism for an improvement in their situation.
Tone: Kind and hopeful
Example: “I hope things get better soon for you. Let me know if I can help in any way.”
Explanation: This phrase conveys both hope and a willingness to help, offering support with a positive outlook.

26. That’s Really a Lot to Handle

Meaning: Recognizes the emotional burden they’re experiencing.
Tone: Empathetic and considerate
Example: “That’s really a lot to handle. I’m amazed by your strength.”
Explanation: This phrase validates the weight of their experience and can help them feel understood and appreciated.

27. I Can See How This is Taking a Toll on You

Meaning: Acknowledges how challenging the situation must be for them.
Tone: Understanding and empathetic
Example: “I can see how this is taking a toll on you. Please take care of yourself.”
Explanation: This response shows empathy for their hardship and encourages them to practice self-care.

28. It’s OK to Feel Upset About This

Meaning: Normalizes their emotional reaction to the situation.
Tone: Reassuring and comforting
Example: “It’s OK to feel upset about this. Don’t feel like you need to hold it in.”
Explanation: This phrase supports them emotionally and reassures them that their feelings are valid.

29. I Can’t Believe You’re Going Through This

Meaning: Shows shock or disbelief about their challenging situation, empathizing with the unfairness.
Tone: Empathetic and supportive
Example: “I can’t believe you’re going through this. I’m so sorry it’s been so tough.”
Explanation: This response conveys genuine surprise and sympathy, emphasizing their difficult experience.

30. It’s Hard to See You Going Through This

Meaning: Expresses concern for their well-being and empathy for their struggle.
Tone: Compassionate and heartfelt
Example: “It’s hard to see you going through this. Let me know if there’s anything I can do.”
Explanation: This phrase shows how much you care about them and empathizes with their pain, strengthening the bond you share.

Conclusion

Being able to genuinely support someone with empathetic and thoughtful phrases can make all the difference in both personal and professional relationships. Using alternatives to “That sucks” allows you to show a deeper level of understanding and compassion that people often need in difficult times.

Try these 30 alternatives to better express your care and concern, building stronger and more meaningful connections.