Synonyms of repentance

repentance

noun

ri-ˈpen-tᵊn(t)s 

as in remorse

a feeling of responsibility for wrongdoing

preached that repentance was the first step on the path of redemption

Synonyms & Similar Words

• remorse
• guilt
• regret
• remorsefulness
• shame
• penitence
• contrition
• contriteness
• grief
• self-reproach
• sadness
• sorrow
• rue
• apology
• anguish
• compunction
• blame
• culpability
• responsibility
• embarrassment
• qualm
• scruple
• distress
• misgiving
• prick
• ruth
• chagrin
• excuses
• fault
• bloodguilt
• liability
• rap
• bloodguiltiness
• mea culpa
• hand-wringing

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• impenitence
• remorselessness

Synonym Chooser

How is the word repentance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of repentance are compunction, contrition, penitence, and remorse. While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

When could compunction be used to replace repentance?

In some situations, the words compunction and repentance are roughly equivalent. However, compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

When is it sensible to use contrition instead of repentance?

The words contrition and repentance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

When is penitence a more appropriate choice than repentance?

The words penitence and repentance can be used in similar contexts, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

When can remorse be used instead of repentance?

Although the words remorse and repentance have much in common, remorse suggests prolonged and insistent self-reproach and mental anguish for past wrongs and especially for those whose consequences cannot be remedied.

thieves untroubled by feelings of remorse

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of repentance

Members of the family have spoken out about religious issues, routinely ended episodes of the series with prayer and have preached nationwide about faith, repentance and baptism. —Mary Whitfill Roeloffs, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025

In a religious context, disability was often seen as a punishment from God or a way to test one’s sense of repentance via self-punishment. —Stephanie Edwards, Discover Magazine, 16 May 2025

The mass, held at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Fort Lauderdale, marks the beginning of the holy season of Lent for Catholics and Christians, a time for reflection and repentance ahead of the celebration of Easter. —Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 5 Mar. 2025

Ash Wednesday is a day of solemn reflection and repentance that reminds Christians of human mortality and the need for reconciliation with God. —Helen H. Richardson, The Denver Post, 5 Mar. 2025