Synonym Chooser

How is the word repentance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of repentance are compunction, contrition, penitence, and remorse. While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

When could compunction be used to replace repentance?

In some situations, the words compunction and repentance are roughly equivalent. However, 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 repentance?

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

tearful expressions of contrition

When is penitence a more appropriate choice than repentance?

The words penitence and repentance can be used in similar contexts, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

When can remorse be used instead of repentance?

Although the words remorse and repentance have much in common, 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

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 repentance Jews are immersed in the spirituality of the holiday and proclaim their faith in God to accept their repentance, forgive their sins and seal their fate for a year of life, health and happiness. Krys'tal Griffin, Freep.com, 2 Oct. 2025 The pic is a story about a gangster in modern-day Chicago, inspired by the repentance story of the fifth-century saint of the same name. Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 5 Sep. 2025 In Christian lore, the sycamore also symbolizes repentance, humility, and forgiveness of one’s sins, evoked by the story of the tax collector Zacchaeus, who climbed one to see Jesus. Ellen Walker, JSTOR Daily, 3 Sep. 2025 Typically, penitents would remain outside church gatherings, demonstrating their repentance by prostrating themselves, and then publicly confess. Timothy Gabrielli, The Conversation, 25 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for repentance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for repentance
Noun
  • In his final days, Djerf expressed remorse and stated that the focus should be on his victims, not him.
    Elena Santa Cruz, AZCentral.com, 18 Oct. 2025
  • Santos denied most accusations at the time but later made a plea deal in court and appeared to break down into sobs of remorse earlier this year upon being sentenced.
    Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 17 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Like regular depression, SAD can cause negative feelings like hopelessness, worthlessness, irritability, and guilt; fatigue or reduced energy; a loss of interest in hobbies and activities; and even physical aches and pains (including headaches, cramps, and digestive problems).
    Maggie O'Neill, SELF, 20 Oct. 2025
  • In Kleinschmidt’s lightly disguised description published in the journal American Imago, Roth is depicted as a southern playwright suffering from dreadful guilt over leaving his wife—this, of course, a strikingly different version than Roth’s own obsessively repetitive account.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 20 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Former Vice President Kamala Harris reiterated her regret over Tesla CEO Elon Musk being snubbed four years ago by then-President Joe Biden.
    Jason Ma, Fortune, 18 Oct. 2025
  • The ballad reflects on a chance meeting with an ex after a breakup and serves as a rare apology from the singer, expressing regret for a relationship that ended too soon.
    Bryan West, Nashville Tennessean, 17 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • There were no songs from that album in the mix, which is a shame.
    Ed Masley, AZCentral.com, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Menopause is a perfect time to expand your definition of intimacy, and that means removing the shame from having open and honest conversations.
    Essence, Essence, 23 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Repentance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/repentance. Accessed 26 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on repentance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!