“It’s a pity” expresses regret or disappointment about an unfortunate situation. Common alternatives include “that’s a shame,” “that’s unfortunate,” “that’s too bad,” and “I’m sorry to hear that,” with different levels of warmth and formality.
Match the Response to the Situation
- That’s a shame
- What a shame
- That’s unfortunate
- That’s too bad
- I’m sorry to hear that
- That’s disappointing
- That’s regrettable
- That’s a real shame
- That’s rough
- That’s a letdown
- That’s sad to hear
- That’s really unfortunate
That’s a shame
A very common alternative for expressing mild regret or disappointment.
Example: That’s a shame you can’t make it to the party.
What a shame
This is slightly more emphatic and often reacts to something disappointing that has already happened.
Example: What a shame the concert was cancelled at the last minute.
That’s unfortunate
A neutral, more formal choice that works well in professional or restrained situations.
Example: That’s unfortunate, but we can look at another date.
That’s too bad
A casual everyday expression for mild disappointment or sympathy.
Example: That’s too bad you missed the final.
I’m sorry to hear that
Use this when the news affects the other person personally and calls for sympathy rather than simple disappointment.
Example: I’m sorry to hear that your trip had to be cancelled.
That’s disappointing
Best when the main feeling is disappointment about an outcome or decision.
Example: That’s disappointing after all the work the team put in.
That’s regrettable
A formal phrase suited to serious or professional contexts, especially when an outcome is undesirable.
Example: The delay is regrettable, and we apologize for the inconvenience.
That’s a real shame
A warmer, stronger version of “that’s a shame” for something genuinely disappointing.
Example: That’s a real shame; I know how much you were looking forward to it.
That’s rough
An informal, sympathetic response to a difficult or frustrating experience.
Example: You had three flights cancelled? That’s rough.
That’s a letdown
Use this when something failed to meet expectations rather than when responding to serious bad news.
Example: The ending was a bit of a letdown after such a strong start.
That’s sad to hear
A gentle option when the news has an emotional or upsetting element.
Example: That’s sad to hear; they were such a lovely couple.
That’s really unfortunate
This adds emphasis while remaining neutral enough for many professional situations.
Example: That’s really unfortunate, especially given how close you were to finishing.
When “I’m Sorry to Hear That” Is Better
For bereavement, illness, loss, or other genuinely painful news, “it’s a pity” can sound too detached. A direct expression of sympathy such as “I’m sorry to hear that” is usually more appropriate.