Synonym Chooser

How is the word contrition distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of contrition are compunction, penitence, remorse, and repentance. While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

When might compunction be a better fit than contrition?

The synonyms compunction and contrition are sometimes interchangeable, but compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

When would penitence be a good substitute for contrition?

The meanings of penitence and contrition largely overlap; however, penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

When is remorse a more appropriate choice than contrition?

The words remorse and contrition can be used in similar contexts, but 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

When is it sensible to use repentance instead of contrition?

In some situations, the words repentance and contrition are roughly equivalent. However, repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of contrition Kiefer’s visceral oeuvre – spanning monumental paintings, sculptures, installations, woodcuts, artists’ books, works on paper, and films – confronts his childhood amid the rubble and contrition of postwar Germany. Natasha Gural, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025 The stewards still looked dimly on the matter despite noting his contrition, fining him €10,000 with €5,000 being suspended for 12 months. Luke Smith, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025 In the lead up to the party, Eady had expressed contrition to other cast members about her previous actions toward Moore. Kate Aurthur, Variety, 7 Apr. 2025 On Monday, Hochman submitted an 88-page court filing asking a judge to rescind the initial order for the re-sentencing hearing, arguing that the brothers have shown little contrition and are unwilling to take responsibility for the killings. Peter D'abrosca, Fox News, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for contrition
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contrition
Noun
  • The statement of remorse by Musk, who spent more than $250 million to help elect Trump in 2024, comes as observers have noticed another shift in his tone on social media toward the Administration.
    Chad de Guzman, Time, 12 June 2025
  • During last month’s clemency hearing, Hanson expressed remorse for his involvement in the crimes and apologized to the victims’ families.
    Sean Murphy, Los Angeles Times, 12 June 2025
Noun
  • In very unhinged behavior, Lucy tracks Sophie down (after her boss expressly tells her the client doesn't want any contact whatsoever), and unsurprisingly, Sophie admonishes her for invading her privacy in an attempt to absolve her feelings of guilt.
    Aisha Harris, NPR, 21 June 2025
  • The Holocaust looms over discussions about Israel, with many claiming the country’s sense of historical guilt has made it, until recently, reluctant to criticize Israeli politics.
    Agnes Mueller, The Conversation, 18 June 2025
Noun
  • But general manager Don Waddell expressed no regrets or disappointment after one trade fell through and several others fizzled out before gaining any traction.
    Aaron Portzline, New York Times, 28 June 2025
  • Moyers expressed regret for the spot — an attack on Johnson’s Republican opponent Barry Goldwater’s views on the use of nuclear weapons.
    Stephen Battaglio, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Contrition.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrition. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on contrition

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