REMORSES Synonyms: 37 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'remorse' distinct from other similar nouns?

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

Q: When is 'compunction' a more appropriate choice than 'remorse'?

While in some cases nearly identical to remorse , compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing. // had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

Q: When is it sensible to use 'contrition' instead of 'remorse'?

The words contrition and remorse are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence. // tearful expressions of contrition

Q: When would 'penitence' be a good substitute for 'remorse'?

The synonyms penitence and remorse are sometimes interchangeable, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds. // absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

Q: When might 'repentance' be a better fit than 'remorse'?

The words repentance and remorse can be used in similar contexts, but repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change. // repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

remorse

noun

ri-ˈmȯrs

Definition of remorse next

as in guilt

a feeling of responsibility for wrongdoing he felt a deep remorse for having neglected his family over the years

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How is the word remorse distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of remorse are compunction, contrition, penitence, and repentance. While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," 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 compunction a more appropriate choice than remorse?

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

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

When is it sensible to use contrition instead of remorse?

The words contrition and remorse are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

When would penitence be a good substitute for remorse?

The synonyms penitence and remorse are sometimes interchangeable, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

When might repentance be a better fit than remorse?

The words repentance and remorse can be used in similar contexts, but 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 remorse One way to avoid buyer's remorse is to imagine talking with your future self, who is looking at all those bills. —

Brittney Melton, NPR, 18 Dec. 2025 Kwon's lawyer Sean Hecker said in an email after the sentencing that Kwon spoke from the heart, expressed genuine remorse and will continue his efforts to make amends. —

Jack Queen, USA Today, 12 Dec. 2025 Ben Hendren/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP The judge, however, said Groves showed no remorse and the city would be far safer with him imprisoned for life. —

CBS News, 12 Dec. 2025 His view toward law could be summarized in his indelicate three-word exhortation to his fellow prisoners at Nuremberg to show no remorse for crime and no respect for law. —

Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for remorse

Recent Examples of Synonyms for remorse

Noun

Advertisement Because women are socialized to be responsible, empathetic, and attuned to others’ needs, deciding to leave can result in feelings of guilt and shame.

— Oona Metz, Time, 13 Jan. 2026
Depression symptoms include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, guilt or irritability, as well as loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities.

— Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 13 Jan. 2026