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
  • Hearing begins with testimony from a family member The defense began by calling Anamaria Baralt, a cousin of Erik and Lyle, who testified that the brothers have repeatedly expressed remorse for their actions.
    Jaimie Ding, Chicago Tribune, 14 May 2025
  • Reports from that time indicated some talent felt his speech focused more on advising them to be careful about being recorded with cell phones and cameras, rather than expressing genuine remorse for his racist statements.
    Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 May 2025
Noun
  • Proposing that the artifacts belong where their makers live now is sensible, but the problem at the heart of Dahomey is its presumption of guilt without resolution or remedy.
    Armond White, National Review, 16 May 2025
  • That lawsuit was settled within 24 hours for $20 million, with no admission of guilt from Combs.
    Elizabeth Rosner, People.com, 16 May 2025
Noun
  • The biggest takeaway from the interview was Hartwell’s regret for not being more vocal.
    Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
  • Another suspect, Abbas, who wrote a book about the heist, also showed regret about the robbery.
    Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 13 May 2025
Noun
  • There shouldn't be shame in aging—not all of us are trying to look 30.
    Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 May 2025
  • Nearly all the gifts showered upon them had morphed into curses: The wealth vanished, the children were struck dead, and the fame transformed into shame.
    Graeme Wood, The Atlantic, 9 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Penitence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/penitence. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on penitence

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