repentance

penitence, repentance, contrition, compunction, remorse mean regret for sin or wrongdoing. penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

• • absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

• • repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

• • tearful expressions of contrition

compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

• • had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

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