Synonym Chooser

How is the word penitence distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of penitence are compunction, contrition, remorse, and repentance. While all these words 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

Where would compunction be a reasonable alternative to penitence?

While in some cases nearly identical to penitence, compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

When could contrition be used to replace penitence?

The meanings of contrition and penitence largely overlap; however, contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

When can remorse be used instead of penitence?

While the synonyms remorse and penitence are close in meaning, 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

In what contexts can repentance take the place of penitence?

The words repentance and penitence are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 penitence Some could bring only fear, and the probability of future fear was dependent on the probability of past fear, as well as on the parent’s over-all chance of penitence. Weike Wang, The New Yorker, 11 July 2024 Especially at this time of year, when mismatches on the power play — at 6-foot-4, Nichushkin blots out the sun as well as opposing goalies’ vision — can often mean the difference between parades and penitence. Sean Keeler, The Denver Post, 14 May 2024 In many religions, the sacrifice of hair can signal penitence. Vanessa Friedman, New York Times, 27 Oct. 2023 An attempt by one German activist to shift attention to Russia’s current war showed just how ingrained the traditional focus on World War II penitence has become. Ekaterina Bodyagina, New York Times, 28 Apr. 2023 See All Example Sentences for penitence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for penitence
Noun
  • The referee agreed with Warner’s claimed mitigation factors of remorse, an absence of dishonest or selfish motive, cooperating with the proceedings and dealing with personal or emotional problems.
    David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 19 Aug. 2025
  • The state was an ironic location for a summit given Russia’s continuing seller’s remorse over having sold it to America in the mid-19th century.
    James Stavridis, Twin Cities, 19 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • That being said, the guilt of leaving for me-time creeps in for so many parents at the end of a long day.
    Staff Author Updated, Parents, 18 Aug. 2025
  • In 2022, then-NBC News reporter Jacob Ward spoke with a former Nigerian romance scammer who spent five years targeting American women and eventually conned one out of $20,000 before confessing out of guilt.
    Jillian Frankel, People.com, 17 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • The original poster responded with honesty and regret.
    Ashley Vega, People.com, 16 Aug. 2025
  • Pickaxe weighed down with regrets of the dead and still alive alike.
    Oliver Brandt, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Parrilla has the more complex role; Bruiser is unprincipled and lacking in shame, yet generally correct and fair.
    Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 14 Aug. 2025
  • Face Debt Without Shame Or Avoidance The first step to reducing debt is facing it without shame.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Penitence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/penitence. Accessed 28 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on penitence

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