Finding the right words makes a real difference when you’re trying to show care, concern, or empathy. Sometimes saying “That’s not good” can feel blunt or dismissive. Choosing a warmer alternative helps you stay supportive, acknowledge someone’s feelings, and keep the conversation meaningful and compassionate. Below are thoughtful phrases that help you express concern without sounding harsh.
What Does “That’s Not Good” Mean?
The phrase “that’s not good” is used when something bad or disappointing happens. It shows that you understand the situation is negative and you care about what the other person is going through. People say this when they hear bad news or when something didn’t go the way someone hoped. While it is clear and honest, sometimes it can sound a little direct or cold so using softer words can make your response feel more comforting and supportive.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “That’s Not Good”?
Yes, it’s professional but can feel a bit flat or cold. In a workplace, consider more supportive phrasing like “That’s unfortunate” or “I’m sorry to hear that.”
Advantages or Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Clear and simple
- Quickly expresses concern
Disadvantages:
- Lacks emotional warmth
- Can seem dismissive
- Doesn’t show personal support
Why You Need Alternatives to “That’s Not Good”
In professional or sensitive situations, wording matters.
The wrong phrase can sound dismissive, rude, or unemotional.
The right phrase shows you acknowledge the issue and care.
Using thoughtful alternatives helps you:
- Maintain trust and rapport
- Show emotional awareness
- Avoid sounding judgmental or negative
- Encourage solutions instead of dwelling on problems
Think of these phrases as tools. The more you have, the smoother your communication becomes.
Formal vs. Informal Alternatives
| Tone | Better Phrases | Best When |
| Professional & Diplomatic | That’s concerning, This could be an issue | Workplace, email, business calls |
| Empathetic & Supportive | I’m sorry to hear that, That sounds tough | Personal conversations, helping a friend |
| Direct but Polite | That’s not ideal, That’s a problem | Quick feedback, collaborative work |
| Casual / Friendly | Yikes, That’s rough, Oof, that’s tough | Informal chats, social messaging |
Tips for Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Best Tone | Example Option |
| Bad news or personal struggle | Empathetic | “I’m sorry you’re dealing with that.” |
| Professional feedback | Diplomatic | “This may require attention.” |
| Unexpected problem | Neutral & calm | “That’s not ideal.” |
| Close friend venting | Casual & supportive | “Wow, that’s rough.” |
Golden rule: Match their emotional level and context, not yours.
That’s Not Good Synonyms
- I’m sorry to hear that
- That sounds tough
- That must be frustrating
- That’s unfortunate
- That’s disappointing
- That’s really challenging
- That doesn’t sound ideal
- That’s not the outcome we hoped for
- That’s worrying
- That’s a tough situation
- That must be difficult
- That’s not the best news
- I can see why you’d be upset
- That doesn’t look promising
- That’s not a good sign
- That’s a bit concerning
- That sounds like a setback
- That doesn’t sound fair
- That’s really unfortunate
- That sounds stressful
- That’s a bit alarming
- That’s not what anyone wants
- That doesn’t sound pleasant
- That’s a letdown
- That’s not ideal at all
- That’s not very encouraging
- That sounds discouraging
- That’s a tricky situation
- That’s not the easiest news to take
- I wish the situation were better
1. I’m sorry to hear that
Meaning: Expressing sympathy.
Definition: A caring acknowledgment of someone’s disappointment.
Detailed Explanation: Shows warmth and emotional support, often used when someone shares upsetting news.
Scenario Example: “I didn’t pass the exam.” “I’m sorry to hear that.”
Best Use: Anytime you want to offer empathy.
Tone: Compassionate and gentle.
2. That sounds tough
Meaning: Recognizing difficulty.
Definition: Shows you understand the emotional weight of the situation.
Detailed Explanation: Validates the person’s feelings and acknowledges their struggle.
Scenario Example: “I’ve been working so much that I barely sleep.” “That sounds tough.”
Best Use: When someone opens up emotionally.
Tone: Supportive and understanding.
3. That must be frustrating
Meaning: Acknowledges irritation and effort.
Definition: Shows awareness of emotional impact.
Detailed Explanation: Helps the person feel heard when dealing with setbacks.
Scenario Example: “They still haven’t fixed my account problem.” “That must be frustrating.”
Best Use: Customer service or personal conversations.
Tone: Empathetic and validating.
4. That’s unfortunate
Meaning: Not a favorable situation.
Definition: Polite way to express disappointment.
Detailed Explanation: Works professionally while still showing understanding.
Scenario Example: “The project got delayed again.” “That’s unfortunate.”
Best Use: Business or formal tone situations.
Tone: Polite and professional.
5. That’s disappointing
Meaning: Expressing shared letdown.
Definition: Recognizes that expectations weren’t met.
Detailed Explanation: Doesn’t minimize feelings and shows understanding.
Scenario Example: “The event got canceled last minute.” “That’s disappointing.”
Best Use: When goals aren’t reached.
Tone: Sympathetic and calm.
6. That’s really challenging
Meaning: You’re acknowledging difficulty in the situation.
Definition: A gentle phrase validating someone’s obstacles or struggles.
Detailed Explanation: This response conveys awareness that the person is facing real difficulty and affirms their experience without judgment.
Scenario Example: “I’m juggling work and caregiving right now.” “That’s really challenging.”
Best Use: When someone shares stress or overwhelm.
Tone: Warm, validating, and understanding.
7. That doesn’t sound ideal
Meaning: The situation isn’t optimal.
Definition: Soft way to express something went wrong or could be better.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase cushions criticism and signals understanding without sounding dramatic.
Scenario Example: “The babysitter canceled right before dinner plans.” “That doesn’t sound ideal.”
Best Use: When keeping the tone gentle and neutral matters.
Tone: Lightly sympathetic and polite.
8. That’s not the outcome we hoped for
Meaning: The result is disappointing for all involved.
Definition: Shows shared expectations and empathy.
Detailed Explanation: This creates a sense of unity — you’re with them in the disappointment.
Scenario Example: “The funding didn’t go through.” “That’s not the outcome we hoped for.”
Best Use: Collaborative environments, team-led situations, friendships.
Tone: Supportive and collective.
9. That’s worrying
Meaning: There’s cause for concern.
Definition: A gentle acknowledgment that something is potentially serious.
Detailed Explanation: Use when you want to show genuine concern without adding panic.
Scenario Example: “The pain hasn’t gone away after two weeks.” “That’s worrying.”
Best Use: Serious matters where empathy matters.
Tone: Concerned yet calm.
10. That’s a tough situation
Meaning: Recognizing a challenging moment.
Definition: Shows you understand the person is facing something difficult.
Detailed Explanation: It expresses that you grasp the emotional weight of what’s happening.
Scenario Example: “My schedule is packed and my car just broke down.” “That’s a tough situation.”
Best Use: General support in stressful life moments.
Tone: Comforting and neutral.
11. That must be difficult
Meaning: Acknowledging emotional or physical hardship.
Definition: Reflects empathy and recognition of emotional effort.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase reassures the person that their feelings and struggles are valid.
Scenario Example: “I’ve been caring for my sick parent.” “That must be difficult.”
Best Use: Emotional, sensitive conversations.
Tone: Gentle and heartfelt.
12. That’s not the best news
Meaning: Bad news but softened.
Definition: A polite way to express disappointment.
Detailed Explanation: Helps keep the tone light while still acknowledging negativity.
Scenario Example: “The package is delayed again.” “That’s not the best news.”
Best Use: Everyday setbacks.
Tone: Light, friendly, and conversational.
13. I can see why you’d be upset
Meaning: Validates emotions.
Definition: Expresses recognition of someone’s feelings.
Detailed Explanation: Affirms emotional reactions, avoiding dismissal or minimizing.
Scenario Example: “My coworker took credit for my idea.” “I can see why you’d be upset.”
Best Use: When someone needs emotional acknowledgment.
Tone: Empathetic and supportive.
14. That doesn’t look promising
Meaning: The situation isn’t turning out well.
Definition: Signals concern without being dramatic.
Detailed Explanation: Sometimes honest but still kind language is necessary for clarity.
Scenario Example: “The results are trending down again.” “That doesn’t look promising.”
Best Use: Professional or analytical contexts.
Tone: Measured and honest.
15. That’s not a good sign
Meaning: Indication something negative may happen.
Definition: Expresses early warning or caution.
Detailed Explanation: This frames the concern logically without being emotional.
Scenario Example: “He keeps canceling our meetings.” “That’s not a good sign.”
Best Use: Situations involving expectations or commitment.
Tone: Concerned yet objective.
16. That’s a bit concerning
Meaning: Softly expressing worry.
Definition: Highlights potential issues in a calm tone.
Detailed Explanation: Avoids alarm but gently flags seriousness.
Scenario Example: “His fever hasn’t broken in 24 hours.” “That’s a bit concerning.”
Best Use: Healthcare, parenting, emotional support.
Tone: Careful and considerate.
17. That sounds like a setback
Meaning: Acknowledging progress interruption.
Definition: Recognizes a delay or challenge in achieving goals.
Detailed Explanation: Helps frame the issue but still suggests forward movement is possible.
Scenario Example: “I have to redo the whole report.” “That sounds like a setback.”
Best Use: Goal-oriented conversations.
Tone: Understanding and growth-focused.
Read More: 30 Other Ways to Say “I Would Like To” (With Examples)
18. That doesn’t sound fair
Meaning: Calling out injustice.
Definition: Recognizes that someone is being treated poorly.
Detailed Explanation: Offers emotional validation and signals support.
Scenario Example: “They didn’t even consider me for the promotion.” “That doesn’t sound fair.”
Best Use: Unfair treatment or inequality scenarios.
Tone: Affirming and empathetic.
19. That’s really unfortunate
Meaning: Acknowledging disappointment kindly.
Definition: Formal yet warm acknowledgment of a negative situation.
Detailed Explanation: Softer and more caring than simply saying “That’s not good.”
Scenario Example: “The venue double-booked us.” “That’s really unfortunate.”
Best Use: Professional and personal situations.
Tone: Sympathetic and polished.
Read More: 30 Other Ways to Say “I Would Like To” (With Examples)
20. That sounds stressful
Meaning: Recognizing emotional strain.
Definition: Affirms someone’s stress without judgment.
Detailed Explanation: Helps people feel seen when overwhelmed.
Scenario Example: “I’ve been working late every night.” “That sounds stressful.”
Best Use: Emotional well-being discussions.
Tone: Comforting and understanding.
21. That’s a bit alarming
Meaning: Softly acknowledging potential danger.
Definition: Signals concern without panic.
Detailed Explanation: Useful for situations where seriousness must be acknowledged sensitively.
Scenario Example: “The baby hasn’t eaten all day.” “That’s a bit alarming.”
Best Use: Health or safety scenarios.
Tone: Calm but serious.
22. That’s not what anyone wants
Meaning: Shared disappointment.
Definition: Recognizing mutual expectations weren’t met.
Detailed Explanation: Helps reinforce teamwork and shared goals.
Scenario Example: “The launch date got pushed again.” “That’s not what anyone wants.”
Best Use: Team environments, shared goals.
Tone: Inclusive and understanding.
23. That doesn’t sound pleasant
Meaning: Situation sounds uncomfortable or unenjoyable.
Definition: Acknowledges discomfort in a mild tone.
Detailed Explanation: Helpful for minor frustrations or inconveniences.
Scenario Example: “My dentist appointment lasted two hours.” “That doesn’t sound pleasant.”
Best Use: Everyday annoyances.
Tone: Warm and casual.
24. That’s a letdown
Meaning: Expressing shared disappointment.
Definition: Recognizes hopes weren’t met.
Detailed Explanation: A gentle way to show solidarity with someone’s disappointment.
Scenario Example: “The concert got canceled.” “That’s a letdown.”
Best Use: Social plans, personal hopes.
Tone: Friendly and relatable.
25. That’s not ideal at all
Meaning: Clear acknowledgment something went wrong.
Definition: A stronger variation of “not ideal.”
Detailed Explanation: Communicates seriousness but remains gentle.
Scenario Example: “We lost all the files during the update.” “That’s not ideal at all.”
Best Use: Moderate to serious issues.
Tone: Concerned yet calm.
26. That’s not very encouraging
Meaning: The outcome doesn’t inspire confidence.
Definition: Acknowledges disappointment or lack of progress.
Detailed Explanation: Helps realistically reflect progress while still being compassionate.
Scenario Example: “They haven’t responded to any emails yet.” “That’s not very encouraging.”
Best Use: Progress updates, planning discussions.
Tone: Honest and supportive.
27. That sounds discouraging
Meaning: Recognizes difficulty affecting motivation.
Definition: Acknowledges someone’s emotional fatigue.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase validates someone feeling defeated or tired.
Scenario Example: “I keep applying and never hear back.” “That sounds discouraging.”
Best Use: Motivational and emotional support.
Tone: Gentle and empathetic.
28. That’s a tricky situation
Meaning: Situation requires careful handling.
Definition: Acknowledges complexity without judgment.
Detailed Explanation: Avoids blame or negativity while validating difficulty.
Scenario Example: “I need to tell my boss I made a mistake.” “That’s a tricky situation.”
Best Use: Delicate or complicated matters.
Tone: Neutral, thoughtful, understanding.
29. That’s not the easiest news to take
Meaning: Acknowledging emotional difficulty in receiving news.
Definition: A softer way of saying something is hard to hear.
Detailed Explanation: Shows emotional awareness and compassion.
Scenario Example: “They decided to move forward with another candidate.” “That’s not the easiest news to take.”
Best Use: Rejection, loss, or major disappointment.
Tone: Kind, respectful, gentle.
30. I wish the situation were better
Meaning: Expressing heartfelt empathy and hope.
Definition: Conveys care and desire for things to improve.
Detailed Explanation: Focuses on compassion and support rather than the problem itself.
Scenario Example: “Everything seems to be going wrong this week.” “I wish the situation were better.”
Best Use: Deep emotional support.
Tone: Warm, sincere, uplifting.
Conclusion
Finding thoughtful ways to express empathy helps you build stronger connections, whether you’re comforting a friend, supporting a loved one, or responding professionally. These alternatives let you acknowledge challenges with kindness, respect, and genuine care.
Choosing your words thoughtfully isn’t about being perfect — it’s about helping others feel heard, valued, and supported, especially when they need it most.
Emma Brooke is a passionate language enthusiast and expert at Grammar Apex, dedicated to helping writers, students, and professionals refine their grammar and writing skills. With a keen eye for detail and a love for linguistic precision, Emma provides insightful tips, clear explanations, and practical guidance to make complex grammar rules easy to understand.