How Long Should a Eulogy Be?

A eulogy should run about three to five minutes - roughly 500 to 800 words. Under two minutes can feel abrupt as the only eulogy; over seven and you risk losing the room and your own composure. When in doubt, aim for the shorter end.

The target: 3 to 5 minutes

At a normal speaking pace of around 130 words per minute, that's 500 to 800 words. It's enough for an introduction, two or three stories, a reflection, and a close, without padding.

If there are multiple speakers

Two or three eulogies at one service should each be shorter - two to three minutes - so the total doesn't run long. Coordinate with the other speakers and the officiant on who covers what.

If you're the only speaker

You have room for four to five minutes, but resist filling it. A tight four beats a padded seven, and shorter is much easier to deliver when you're grieving.

Practice with a timer

Read it aloud at the pace you'll actually use - slower than you think, with pauses. People consistently underestimate how long their eulogy runs because they read it fast in their head.

Cut to the strongest material

If it's long, remove the second-best story, not the best one. One vivid story beats three summarized ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many words is a 5-minute eulogy?

About 650 words at a normal speaking pace of roughly 130 words per minute. A 3-minute eulogy is about 400 words.

Can a eulogy be too short?

As the only eulogy, under about two minutes can feel abrupt. Two to three minutes is fine if there are several speakers.

What if I have more to say than five minutes allows?

Cut the weaker stories and keep the strongest one. Consider writing a longer piece to share with family privately, separate from the spoken eulogy.

See how to write a eulogy and how many words is a 5-minute speech.