Expressing/responding to good news & Expressing/responding to bad news:
Expressing good news:I've got some good/great news.
I've got some smashing news to tell you.
Listen to this, (with a positive intonation) ….!
I've got some smashing news to tell you.
Listen to this, (with a positive intonation) ….!
Responding to good news:Wow, that sounds exciting!
That’s great!
How fantastic!
Really? (with a positive intonation)
What? (with a positive intonation)
Expressing bad news:I really don’t know how to say it, but …
I’m sorry to have to say this, but …
I really feel bad to have to say this, but …
Unfortunately, …
Responding to bad news:Oh, dear!
I’m so sorry to hear that.
Too bad!
That’s awful / a pity/unfortunate.
With heartfelt sympathy and understanding thoughts in this time of sadness.
Please accept our deepest sympathy for ...
My heart is saddened by the ...
Examples: Sample phrases (from formal to informal)
A: I am/was deeply/truly sorry to hear about your grandmother. I understand what you're going through right now.
B: Thank you very much. I'm deeply moved/touched.
A: I was sorry/shocked/upset to hear you didn't win the scholarship. I know how disappointed you must feel.
B: I appreciate your sympathy/kindness. I hope I'll do better next year.
A: How shocking/awful to hear about your accident. Are you OK?
B: It's very nice/kind of you to be so concerned but really, I'm fine now.
A: Too bad you didn't get the raise. I was hoping you would!
B: Thanks for your support. Sometimes things don't go the way we want, do they?