For good news, build anticipation: “I’ve got great news!”, “You’ll be happy to hear that…” or “Guess what?”.
For sensitive news, soften it: “I’m afraid I have some bad news”, “Unfortunately…” or “I’m sorry to tell you that…”. Tone changes everything.
At work, be clear and respectful at once: “There’s been a change of plans” beats a blunt “bad news”.
In practice
Good news“I have some exciting news to share.”
Bad news“I’m afraid it’s not the outcome we hoped for.”
SoftenStart with “Unfortunately,” to prepare the listener.