When life delivers bad news or you’re responding to a friend or colleague, Other Ways to Say ‘That Sucks’ (With Examples) can help express sympathy, empathy, and care in thoughtful, meaningful, personal ways.
In situations where the same phrase feels overused or inappropriate, exploring a variety of alternatives can be invaluable. Looking for expressions that help you communicate effectively and empathetically ensures your message feels comforting, authentic, and warm, while showing concern for the one receiving it.
In my experience, having multiple alternatives makes interactions smoother and more genuine. A personal message that expresses sympathy thoughtfully can be far more impactful than the casual phrase, helping yourself and others feel understood, valued, and comforted, creating connections built on care, understanding, and authenticity.
What Does “That Sucks” Mean?
“That sucks” is a casual way to say something is disappointing, unfair, or upsetting. It shows sympathy but can sometimes feel too blunt or informal, depending on the situation.
When to Use “That Sucks”
You can use “that sucks” in casual conversations, especially with friends or family. It works best when the situation is minor, and everyone understands the informal tone.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “That Sucks”?
In professional or sensitive settings, “that sucks” may sound careless. Choosing polite alternatives shows empathy while keeping your message respectful and appropriate.
Synonyms For “That Sucks”
That’s unfortunate
That’s tough
I’m sorry to hear that
That’s disappointing
That’s rough
That’s frustrating
That’s a bummer
That’s really hard
That’s upsetting
That’s not fair
That’s awful
That’s terrible
That’s painful
That’s discouraging
That’s heartbreaking
That’s a shame
That’s unfortunate news
That’s not ideal
That’s stressful
That’s exhausting
That’s really unlucky
That’s difficult
That’s troubling
That’s unfortunate timing
That’s unpleasant
That’s hard to deal with
That’s disappointing news
That’s unfortunate indeed
That’s really sad
That’s tough to hear
1. That’s unfortunate
Scenario: A friend missed an important opportunity.
Examples:
• That’s unfortunate. You deserved better.
• That’s unfortunate news.
• That’s really unfortunate.
• Wow, that’s unfortunate timing.
• That’s unfortunate, I’m sorry.
Tone: Sympathetic and polite
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase gently acknowledges disappointment without sounding harsh. It keeps the conversation respectful while still expressing care and understanding during difficult or unlucky situations.
Best Use: Professional or casual conversations
2. That’s tough
Scenario: Someone is dealing with a challenge.
Examples:
• That’s tough. I know it hurts.
• That’s really tough.
• That’s tough to hear.
• That’s tough, stay strong.
• That’s tough, I’m here.
Tone: Supportive and understanding
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase recognizes difficulty in a simple, caring way. It validates emotions without exaggeration and helps the other person feel seen and supported.
Best Use: Emotional support moments
3. I’m sorry to hear that
Scenario: Someone shares bad news.
Examples:
• I’m sorry to hear that.
• I’m really sorry to hear that.
• Sorry to hear that happened.
• I’m sorry you’re dealing with this.
• I’m sorry to hear this news.
Tone: Kind and empathetic
Explanation (28 words):
This expression clearly shows empathy and concern. It feels sincere, polite, and emotionally aware, making it ideal for sensitive situations requiring compassion.
Best Use: Personal and professional settings
4. That’s disappointing
Scenario: Plans didn’t work out.
Examples:
• That’s disappointing.
• That’s really disappointing.
• That’s disappointing to hear.
• Wow, that’s disappointing news.
• That’s disappointing, honestly.
Tone: Calm and honest
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase directly acknowledges unmet expectations. It communicates understanding without sounding dramatic, helping conversations stay grounded and respectful.
Best Use: Everyday conversations
5. That’s rough
Scenario: Someone had a bad experience.
Examples:
• That’s rough, I’m sorry.
• That’s really rough.
• That’s rough to deal with.
• That’s rough, hang in there.
• Wow, that’s rough.
Tone: Casual and caring
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase feels friendly and relatable. It works well in informal talks where empathy matters more than formal wording.
Best Use: Friends and close colleagues
6. That’s frustrating
Scenario: Someone tried hard but things still failed.
Examples:
• That’s frustrating, I get it.
• That’s really frustrating.
• That’s frustrating to deal with.
• I know, that’s frustrating.
• That sounds frustrating.
Tone: Understanding and validating
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase acknowledges emotional tension and effort. It reassures the listener that their feelings make sense and that frustration is a natural response.
Best Use: Work issues or personal setbacks
7. That’s a bummer
Scenario: Plans were canceled unexpectedly.
Examples:
• That’s a bummer.
• That’s such a bummer.
• Oh no, that’s a bummer.
• That’s a real bummer.
• Wow, that’s a bummer.
Tone: Light and casual
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase softens disappointment with a relaxed tone. It works well when the situation is annoying but not deeply serious.
Best Use: Friendly conversations
8. That’s really hard
Scenario: Someone is going through emotional stress.
Examples:
• That’s really hard.
• I know that’s really hard.
• That’s hard to go through.
• That’s really hard for you.
• That sounds really hard.
Tone: Gentle and compassionate
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase shows emotional awareness and care. It recognizes struggle without judgment and creates space for honest feelings.
Best Use: Emotional support situations
9. That’s upsetting
Scenario: Someone received bad news.
Examples:
• That’s upsetting to hear.
• That’s really upsetting.
• I agree, that’s upsetting.
• That’s upsetting news.
• That must be upsetting.
Tone: Empathetic and calm
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase acknowledges emotional impact clearly. It validates feelings while maintaining a respectful and composed tone.
Best Use: Sensitive conversations
10. That’s not fair
Scenario: Someone was treated unfairly.
Examples:
• That’s not fair at all.
• That’s really not fair.
• You’re right, that’s not fair.
• That’s not fair to you.
• That’s completely not fair.
Tone: Supportive and validating
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase expresses solidarity and understanding. It reassures the listener that their experience is valid and unjust.
Best Use: Emotional reassurance
11. That’s awful
Scenario: Something went very wrong.
Examples:
• That’s awful, I’m sorry.
• That sounds awful.
• That’s really awful.
• Wow, that’s awful news.
• That’s awful to hear.
Tone: Strong empathy
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase communicates deep concern. It shows you truly recognize how bad the situation feels without minimizing pain.
Best Use: Serious situations
12. That’s terrible
Scenario: Someone had a bad experience.
Examples:
• That’s terrible.
• That’s really terrible.
• That’s terrible news.
• I’m sorry, that’s terrible.
• That sounds terrible.
Tone: Direct and caring
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase clearly conveys sympathy and seriousness. It’s useful when the situation deserves strong acknowledgment.
Best Use: Emotional or serious moments
13. That’s painful
Scenario: Someone experienced emotional loss.
Examples:
• That’s painful, I’m sorry.
• That must be painful.
• That’s really painful.
• That sounds painful.
• I know that’s painful.
Tone: Deeply empathetic
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase validates emotional hurt. It shows sensitivity and understanding without sounding dramatic or dismissive.
Best Use: Personal conversations
14. That’s discouraging
Scenario: Someone feels like giving up.
Examples:
• That’s discouraging.
• That’s really discouraging.
• I know that’s discouraging.
• That sounds discouraging.
• That’s discouraging news.
Tone: Supportive and honest
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase acknowledges loss of motivation. It reassures the listener that setbacks can feel draining and discouraging.
Best Use: Work or goal-related setbacks
15. That’s heartbreaking
Scenario: Someone shared emotional loss.
Examples:
• That’s heartbreaking.
• That’s truly heartbreaking.
• I’m sorry, that’s heartbreaking.
• That’s heartbreaking to hear.
• That sounds heartbreaking.
Tone: Deep compassion
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase expresses strong empathy and emotional connection. It’s best for moments involving loss, grief, or deep sadness.
Best Use: Very emotional situations
16. That’s a shame
Scenario: A missed opportunity occurred.
Examples:
• That’s a shame.
• That’s really a shame.
• Oh, that’s a shame.
• That’s a shame to hear.
• That’s such a shame.
Tone: Gentle disappointment
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase expresses regret politely. It’s calm, respectful, and suitable for lighter disappointments.
Best Use: Polite conversations
17. That’s unfortunate news
Scenario: Someone received bad information.
Examples:
• That’s unfortunate news.
• That’s very unfortunate news.
• I’m sorry, that’s unfortunate news.
• That’s unfortunate news indeed.
• That’s unfortunate to hear.
Tone: Formal and sympathetic
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase sounds respectful and composed. It works well when professionalism matters but empathy is still needed.
Best Use: Professional settings
Read More:30 Other Ways to Say ‘I’m Proud of You’ (With Examples)
18. That’s not ideal
Scenario: Something didn’t go as planned.
Examples:
• That’s not ideal.
• That’s really not ideal.
• That’s not ideal at all.
• Yeah, that’s not ideal.
• That’s not ideal timing.
Tone: Neutral and polite
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase downplays negativity while still acknowledging an issue. It keeps conversations calm and constructive.
Best Use: Work discussions
19. That’s stressful
Scenario: Someone feels overwhelmed.
Examples:
• That’s stressful.
• That sounds stressful.
• I know that’s stressful.
• That’s really stressful.
• That must be stressful.
Tone: Understanding
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase validates pressure and emotional weight. It shows awareness of mental strain without judgment.
Best Use: Supportive conversations
20. That’s exhausting
Scenario: Someone is mentally tired.
Examples:
• That’s exhausting.
• That sounds exhausting.
• I know that’s exhausting.
• That must be exhausting.
• That’s really exhausting.
Tone: Empathetic and relatable
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase recognizes emotional and physical fatigue. It makes the listener feel understood and supported.
Best Use: Burnout discussions
21. That’s really unlucky
Scenario: Bad luck caused problems.
Examples:
• That’s really unlucky.
• Wow, that’s unlucky.
• That’s so unlucky.
• That’s really unlucky timing.
• That’s unlucky.
Tone: Casual sympathy
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase acknowledges chance or bad timing. It helps reduce blame and keeps the mood lighter.
Best Use: Casual talks
22. That’s difficult
Scenario: Someone faces challenges.
Examples:
• That’s difficult.
• That sounds difficult.
• I know that’s difficult.
• That’s very difficult.
• That must be difficult.
Tone: Respectful and calm
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase acknowledges complexity and struggle. It’s neutral, thoughtful, and suitable for serious discussions.
Best Use: Professional or personal
23. That’s troubling
Scenario: A concerning situation arises.
Examples:
• That’s troubling.
• That sounds troubling.
• That’s very troubling.
• That’s troubling news.
• That’s quite troubling.
Tone: Concerned and serious
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase highlights concern without panic. It signals seriousness while maintaining control and clarity.
Best Use: Serious matters
24. That’s unfortunate timing
Scenario: Bad timing caused issues.
Examples:
• That’s unfortunate timing.
• Really unfortunate timing.
• That’s very unfortunate timing.
• Yeah, unfortunate timing.
• That’s unfortunate timing indeed.
Tone: Understanding
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase focuses on timing rather than blame. It keeps conversations constructive and calm.
Best Use: Professional discussions
25. That’s unpleasant
Scenario: Someone had a bad experience.
Examples:
• That’s unpleasant.
• That sounds unpleasant.
• That must be unpleasant.
• That’s quite unpleasant.
• That’s really unpleasant.
Tone: Polite and mild
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase offers gentle acknowledgment without emotional overload. It works well in polite or formal situations.
Best Use: Polite conversations
26. That’s hard to deal with
Scenario: Someone feels overwhelmed.
Examples:
• That’s hard to deal with.
• That sounds hard to deal with.
• I know that’s hard to deal with.
• That must be hard to deal with.
• That’s really hard to deal with.
Tone: Supportive
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase validates emotional burden and shows empathy. It reassures the listener they’re not alone.
Best Use: Emotional support
27. That’s disappointing news
Scenario: Someone received bad updates.
Examples:
• That’s disappointing news.
• That’s really disappointing news.
• Sorry, that’s disappointing news.
• That’s disappointing to hear.
• That’s disappointing.
Tone: Polite and empathetic
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase sounds thoughtful and composed. It fits situations requiring balance between honesty and kindness.
Best Use: Professional settings
28. That’s unfortunate indeed
Scenario: A serious setback happened.
Examples:
• That’s unfortunate indeed.
• Very unfortunate indeed.
• That’s truly unfortunate indeed.
• That’s unfortunate indeed, sorry.
• That’s unfortunate indeed to hear.
Tone: Formal sympathy
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase adds emphasis while remaining respectful. It works well in formal or written communication.
Best Use: Formal responses
29. That’s really sad
Scenario: Someone shared emotional pain.
Examples:
• That’s really sad.
• That’s so sad.
• That’s sad to hear.
• That’s really sad news.
• That makes me sad.
Tone: Warm empathy
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase expresses shared emotion. It helps the listener feel understood and emotionally supported.
Best Use: Personal conversations
30. That’s tough to hear
Scenario: Someone shared bad news.
Examples:
• That’s tough to hear.
• That must be tough to hear.
• That’s really tough to hear.
• I know that’s tough to hear.
• That’s tough to hear, sorry.
Tone: Gentle and compassionate
Explanation (28 words):
This phrase focuses on emotional impact. It shows sensitivity and acknowledges the difficulty of receiving bad news.
Best Use: Supportive conversations
FAQs About Saying “That Sucks”
1. Is “that sucks” rude to say?
Not always. It’s casual and fine with friends. However, in professional or emotional situations, it can sound too blunt or insensitive.
2. What is a polite replacement for “that sucks”?
Polite options include “That’s unfortunate,” “I’m sorry to hear that,” or “That’s disappointing.” These sound kinder and more respectful.
3. Can I use these alternatives at work?
Yes. Many alternatives like “That’s not ideal” or “That’s unfortunate news” are professional, calm, and appropriate for workplace communication.
4. Which alternative sounds the most empathetic?
Phrases like “That’s really hard,” “That’s heartbreaking,” and “That’s tough to hear” show deep empathy and emotional understanding.
5. Why should I avoid saying “that sucks” sometimes?
Because words matter. Choosing thoughtful alternatives helps you sound more caring, avoids misunderstandings, and strengthens emotional connections.
Conclusion
While “that sucks” is common, it isn’t always the best choice. Using warmer, more thoughtful alternatives helps you communicate with empathy, respect, and care. The right words can comfort, support, and truly connect.
Fazal Abbas is an English language writer who focuses on making grammar clear and easy to understand. He explains complex rules in simple terms and uses practical examples to help readers improve their writing, speaking, and overall communication skills.
