A page with content has something to show in every section. An empty page asks a different question: has the design considered what happens before or after the expected result?
Explain what happened
A search with no matching articles is different from a search index that failed to load. One suggests trying another keyword; the other calls for a retry or a connection check.
A message that only says “No data” leaves that distinction to the reader.
Offer a useful way forward
An empty list can link to all articles. A missing page can offer the archives. A single helpful next step is often enough.
Keep the language measured
There is no need for an exaggerated tone to cover missing information. A calm explanation can be more useful than a large illustration.
A good empty state makes a pause understandable and gives the reader somewhere to go.