Synonyms of compunction

compunction

noun

kəm-ˈpəŋ(k)-shən 

as in doubt

an uneasy feeling about the rightness of what one is doing or going to do

throughout her school years she cheated without compunction

Synonyms & Similar Words

• doubt
• scruple
• remorse
• objection
• qualm
• regret
• guilt
• misgiving
• conscience
• suspicion
• question
• uncertainty
• distrust
• skepticism
• unease
• mistrust
• reluctance
• uneasiness
• reservation
• protest
• contrition
• unwillingness
• remonstrance
• penitence
• indisposition
• misdoubt
• repentance
• incertitude
• dubiety
• shame
• disinclination
• self-reproach
• demur
• uncertainness
• aversion
• fuss
• qualmishness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• conviction
• certainty
• confidence
• assurance
• certitude
• sureness
• aplomb
• self-confidence
• self-assurance

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun compunction differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of compunction are demur, qualm, and scruple. While all these words mean "a misgiving about what one is doing or going to do," compunction implies a spontaneous feeling of responsibility or compassion for a potential victim.

had compunctions about lying

When is demur a more appropriate choice than compunction?

In some situations, the words demur and compunction are roughly equivalent. However, demur implies hesitation caused by objection to an outside suggestion or influence.

accepted her decision without demur

When could qualm be used to replace compunction?

Although the words qualm and compunction have much in common, qualm implies an uneasy fear that one is not following one's conscience or better judgment.

no qualms about plagiarizing

In what contexts can scruple take the place of compunction?

While in some cases nearly identical to compunction, scruple implies doubt of the rightness of an act on grounds of principle.

no scruples against buying stolen goods

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of compunction

This regime has no such compunction. — David Remnick, New Yorker, 17 June 2026

The Islamic Republic slaughtered tens of thousands of Iranians earlier this year without compunction and remains in power despite military intervention by America and Israel. — Joobin Bekhrad, Time, 10 June 2026

Johnson clearly felt no such compunctions. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 2026

Often transnational agreements are necessary if pipelines pass through several territories and security — something in short supply when Iran has shown no compunction in attacking neighbors’ energy facilities. — Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 23 Apr. 2026

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