Words for a real moment
What to say to someone going through a breakup
The useful first move is not to explain the breakup. It is to acknowledge that it hurts and make contact easy to receive.
Words you can use
A ready-to-send version
I’m sorry this hurts. I can listen for ten minutes or simply send a quiet hello. You do not need to explain anything, and no reply is required. If today is not right, that is completely fine.
A useful approach
Send one brief message without analysing the relationship or the former partner.
Give them a choice between a brief chat and a message they can answer later.
If they decline or stay quiet, check once tomorrow and then give them space.
Make it fit your person
Change the relationship, timing and tone
No name is needed. Optional details are not stored.