regret

²regret

noun

Definition of REGRET

1

: sorrow aroused by circumstances beyond one's control or power to repair

2

a : an expression of distressing emotion (as sorrow) b plural : a note politely declining an invitation

— re·gret·ful \-ˈgret-fəl\ adjective

— re·gret·ful·ness noun

Examples of REGRET

1. She has no regrets about leaving him.
2. My greatest regret is not going to college.
3. To my regret, I never visited Europe.
4. It is with deep regret that he is announcing his resignation.
5. My coworker gives her regrets for not being able to attend the meeting.

First Known Use of REGRET

1590

Related to REGRET

Synonyms: contriteness, contrition, penitence, guilt, remorse, remorsefulness, repentance, rue, self-reproach, shame

Antonyms: impenitence, remorselessness

Related Words: compunction, misgiving, prick, qualm, scruple; blame, culpability, fault; liability, rap, responsibility; chagrin, embarrassment; anguish, distress, grief, ruth, sadness, sorrow; bloodguilt, bloodguiltiness; apology, excuses, hand-wringing, mea culpa

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See Synonym Discussion at sorrow