When something unfortunate happens, saying “That sucks” can sound a bit casual or harsh—especially in professional or empathetic situations. Finding other ways to say “That sucks” helps you express understanding, support, or sympathy in a more thoughtful way. Whether you’re talking to a friend who’s upset, a coworker dealing with bad luck, or someone sharing sad news, having alternatives makes you sound more emotionally intelligent and kind.
In this guide, we’ll explore 30 better ways to say “That sucks”, complete with examples, context, and best-use situations—so you can respond naturally and compassionately every time.
Another or Professional Way to Says o Say “That Sucks”
- “That’s really unfortunate.”
- “I’m so sorry to hear that.”
- “That must be really tough.”
- “That’s rough.”
- “What a bummer.”
- “That’s such a shame.”
- “That’s disappointing.”
- “That’s too bad.”
- “I can see why you’d be upset.”
- “That didn’t go as planned.”
- “That’s a tough break.”
- “That sounds frustrating.”
- “That’s so unfair.”
- “That’s really bad luck.”
- “That’s really sad to hear.”
- “That must be disappointing.”
- “That’s heartbreaking.”
- “That’s not easy.”
- “That’s really unfortunate news.”
- “That’s awful.”
- “That’s so hard.”
- “That’s really annoying.”
- “That’s upsetting.”
- “That’s discouraging.”
- “That’s such a letdown.”
- “That’s disappointing news.”
- “That’s terrible.”
- “That’s unfortunate timing.”
- “That’s really tough to deal with.”
- “That’s not what you deserved.”
1. “That’s really unfortunate.”
When a friend tells you their trip got canceled, this phrase shows empathy and understanding without sounding too blunt. It’s polite yet genuine, making it great for both personal and professional use.
Example: “That’s really unfortunate. I know you were looking forward to it.”
Best Use: Use when someone experiences mild disappointment or an unexpected setback.
2. “I’m so sorry to hear that.”
This phrase adds warmth and compassion, perfect for emotionally charged situations. It communicates genuine sympathy and support, showing you care.
Example: “I’m so sorry to hear that. Is there anything I can do to help?”
Best Use: Ideal when someone shares sad or difficult news.
3. “That must be really tough.”
This empathetic response acknowledges someone’s struggle without minimizing it. It’s conversational and caring.
Example: “That must be really tough. I can only imagine how you feel.”
Best Use: Use when someone opens up about personal hardship or stress.
4. “That’s rough.”
Short and natural, “That’s rough” works well in casual settings. It still shows understanding but feels more relaxed and friendly.
Example: “Oof, that’s rough. I hope things get better soon.”
Best Use: Perfect for texting friends or reacting to everyday annoyances.
5. “What a bummer.”
This is a lighthearted alternative that works when the situation isn’t too serious. It keeps the tone casual but still sympathetic.
Example: “What a bummer! I know you were counting on that.”
Best Use: Use for minor inconveniences like canceled plans or small disappointments.
6. “That’s such a shame.”
This classic phrase is polite and suitable for all settings. It carries genuine concern and regret.
Example: “That’s such a shame. You really deserved better.”
Best Use: Best for expressing sympathy in formal or polite conversations.
Also Read This: 30 Other Ways to Say “It Means a Lot to Me” (With Examples)
7. “That’s disappointing.”
A simple but mature way to acknowledge frustration without sounding dramatic. It’s great for workplace conversations.
Example: “That’s disappointing. You put so much effort into it.”
Best Use: Use when a project or expectation falls short.
8. “That’s too bad.”
A gentle, everyday phrase that conveys sympathy while keeping things light.
Example: “That’s too bad. Maybe next time will work out better.”
Best Use: Perfect for small letdowns or neutral responses.
9. “I can see why you’d be upset.”
This shows active listening and validation. It helps build emotional connection.
Example: “I can see why you’d be upset. That situation sounds really unfair.”
Best Use: When someone feels wronged or frustrated.
10. “That didn’t go as planned.”
This phrase softens the blow and shows understanding while focusing on the situation, not the person.
Example: “That didn’t go as planned, but you handled it really well.”
Best Use: For constructive or optimistic responses after something goes wrong.
11. “That’s a tough break.”
A conversational and slightly old-school phrase that still works in friendly dialogue.
Example: “That’s a tough break, man. I know how much it meant to you.”
Best Use: Use in informal chats with friends or colleagues.
12. “That sounds frustrating.”
A validating phrase that shows empathy and emotional awareness.
Example: “That sounds frustrating. I’d be annoyed too.”
Best Use: When someone vents about an ongoing issue or obstacle.
13. “That’s so unfair.”
Use this when someone experiences something undeserved. It shows solidarity and emotional connection.
Example: “That’s so unfair. You didn’t deserve that outcome.”
Best Use: When you want to express moral support or outrage.
14. “That’s really bad luck.”
Sometimes, things just happen by chance. This phrase shows compassion without judgment.
Example: “That’s really bad luck. Hopefully, things turn around soon.”
Best Use: For unlucky or random situations beyond control.
15. “That’s really sad to hear.”
A tender and heartfelt way to respond to upsetting news.
Example: “That’s really sad to hear. I’m thinking of you.”
Best Use: For sensitive topics like loss or emotional hardship.
16. “That must be disappointing.”
A thoughtful rephrase that validates feelings while staying professional.
Example: “That must be disappointing, especially after all your effort.”
Best Use: Great for managers, teachers, or mentors showing empathy.
17. “That’s heartbreaking.”
This emotionally charged phrase works when something deeply affects you or someone else.
Example: “That’s heartbreaking. I’m truly sorry you’re going through this.”
Best Use: Use in sincere conversations about emotional pain or loss.
18. “That’s not easy.”
Short, respectful, and empathetic—it shows understanding without overstepping.
Example: “That’s not easy. You’ve handled it with a lot of strength.”
Best Use: For comforting someone facing stress or big challenges.
19. “That’s really unfortunate news.”
Adds a layer of professionalism while still showing sympathy.
Example: “That’s really unfortunate news. I hope things improve soon.”
Best Use: Suitable for formal emails or workplace discussions.
20. “That’s awful.”
Simple but impactful, “That’s awful” directly expresses your shock and sympathy.
Example: “That’s awful! I can’t believe that happened.”
Best Use: For intense emotional reactions or shocking events.
21. “That’s so hard.”
A soft, supportive way to comfort someone sharing a difficult story.
Example: “That’s so hard. I admire how strong you’re being.”
Best Use: When offering emotional support in a personal conversation.
22. “That’s really annoying.”
Good for lighthearted complaints or everyday frustrations.
Example: “That’s really annoying. Hopefully, it’s sorted out soon.”
Best Use: Casual tone, for relatable day-to-day problems.
23. “That’s upsetting.”
Neutral yet compassionate, perfect for personal and professional communication.
Example: “That’s upsetting. You didn’t deserve that experience.”
Best Use: Use when you need to stay composed but caring.
24. “That’s discouraging.”
This shows that you understand how setbacks can drain motivation.
Example: “That’s discouraging, but don’t lose faith—you’re doing great.”
Best Use: Encouraging tone for people facing repeated obstacles.
25. “That’s such a letdown.”
Captures disappointment in a friendly, conversational way.
Example: “That’s such a letdown. I know you were counting on that.”
Best Use: Use for canceled plans or unmet expectations.
26. “That’s disappointing news.”
Professional and composed—ideal for emails or work updates.
Example: “That’s disappointing news. Let’s regroup and find another solution.”
Best Use: Workplace or project-related communication.
27. “That’s terrible.”
Direct yet sympathetic, this phrase expresses strong empathy.
Example: “That’s terrible. I’m really sorry you had to go through that.”
Best Use: Serious or distressing conversations.
28. “That’s unfortunate timing.”
Acknowledges the situation without sounding too negative.
Example: “That’s unfortunate timing. Maybe another opportunity will come up soon.”
Best Use: Best for professional or practical situations.
29. “That’s really tough to deal with.”
A supportive response that shows deep understanding and compassion.
Example: “That’s really tough to deal with. Take your time to process it.”
Best Use: When someone needs empathy more than advice.
30. “That’s not what you deserved.”
This phrase validates emotions and expresses loyalty.
Example: “That’s not what you deserved. You’ve worked so hard.”
Best Use: When supporting someone who feels unfairly treated.
Conclusion
Using other ways to say “That sucks” helps you sound more empathetic, emotionally intelligent, and respectful in any situation. From casual “That’s rough” to heartfelt “That’s heartbreaking,” your tone can shape how others feel supported. Choose words that match your relationship and the seriousness of the moment—it makes all the difference.
FAQs
1. Why should I avoid saying “That sucks”?
Because it can sound too casual or insensitive in serious situations. Using alternatives shows emotional awareness.
2. What’s the most polite alternative to “That sucks”?
Phrases like “That’s really unfortunate” or “I’m sorry to hear that” are polite and widely accepted.
3. Can I use these in professional emails?
Yes—options like “That’s disappointing” or “That’s unfortunate news” work well in professional contexts.
4. How can I sound more empathetic in conversation?
Use validating phrases like “That must be tough” or “I can see why you’re upset.”
5. What’s a casual replacement for “That sucks”?
Try “That’s rough” or “What a bummer”—both sound friendly but not too formal.
