Kaastunne

Kaastunne is an Estonian noun that denotes sympathy, compassion, or condolences. It describes a feeling of shared sorrow or pity toward someone’s misfortune and is used both to describe inner emotion and as a social act—expressing support to others in difficult times. The term encompasses both personal empathy and the gesture of conveying that empathy to someone who is grieving or suffering.

Etymology: The word is formed from kaas- meaning together and tunne meaning feeling, literally "a together feeling" or "shared feeling." This reflects a cultural emphasis on communal response to others' hardship.

Kaastunne is used in everyday language and formal contexts such as condolence messages and public statements. Common expressions include "minu sügav kaastunne" (my deepest condolences). The related verb kaastundima means to feel sympathy or to sympathize, and phrases like "kaastunde avaldamine" refer to expressing condolences.

In Estonian society, offering kaastunne is a standard part of bereavement etiquette and social support, often conveyed in person, in cards, or in public remarks. While it denotes pity, it also signals solidarity with those who suffer.