Is there a specific, limited formula to be said when offering condolences?

Condolence is to urge the afflicted to be patient, and it does not have specific wordings. It is preferable for a Muslim to offer condolences to his brother with whatever appropriate words are available. The best condolence is what the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, offered to his daughter: «Indeed, to Allah belongs what He has taken, and to Him belongs what He has given, and everything with Him has an appointed term, so let her be patient and seek reward from Allah.»