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
  • Buyer's remorse does not create a felony conviction and a life sentence.
    Joshua Rhett Miller, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 June 2025
  • But while visitors may find plenty of reasons to feel remorse when their Vegas sojourn ends, absolution might be found in the city’s renewable energy boom.
    Max Bearak, New York Times, 24 June 2025
Noun
  • There was overwhelming evidence of his guilt, including his DNA on the knife sheath, cell site evidence the night of the murders, video surveillance of his white Hyundai Elantra, and Amazon search and purchase history of the murder weapon.
    Anna Commander, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 July 2025
  • Still unaware of the Front Man’s true identity, Gi-hun grapples with survivor’s guilt and begs to be killed.
    Monica Mercuri, Forbes.com, 28 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

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Cite this Entry

“Contrition.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrition. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on contrition

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