Words when words are difficult
What do I say?
Sometimes the practical problem is not knowing what to buy or book. It is knowing how to tell someone, ask for something, set a boundary or explain a decision.
A useful rule
Clear and kind usually works better than elaborate. Say what has happened, what you need people to know, and what you are asking them to do next.
Bereavement
Tell people someone has died
Short text, phone and public-announcement wording.
Find words →Children
Tell a child someone has died
Simple, honest wording without euphemisms that can confuse.
Find words →Work
Tell an employer or coworkers
Ask for time, privacy or practical flexibility without oversharing.
Find words →Funeral
Invite people to a funeral or memorial
Service details, private gatherings and livestream wording.
Find words →Wedding
Handle awkward invitation wording
Adults only, plus-ones, gifts and limited guest lists.
Find words →New baby
Set visitor boundaries kindly
Ask people to wait, text first or bring practical help.
Find words →