What Is Regret? Definition And Usage Of This Term
WHAT IS REGRET – In this topic, we will first know the definition of this term and how is this term used in sentences.
Definition
The Oxford Dictionary defines the term as the following:
- feel sad, repentant, or disappointed over (something that has happened or been done, especially a loss or missed opportunity).
- used in polite formulas to express apology for or sadness over something unfortunate or unpleasant.
- a feeling of sadness, repentance, or disappointment over something that has happened or been done.
- used in polite formulas to express apology for or sadness at an occurrence or an inability to accept an invitation.
On the other hand, the Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines this term as the following:
- to mourn the loss or death of
- to miss very much
- to be very sorry for
- to experience regret
- sorrow aroused by circumstances beyond one’s control or power to repair
- an expression of distressing emotion (such as sorrow)
Synonyms
Here are some of the following synonyms:
- be sorry about
- feel contrite about
- feel apologetic about
- feel remorse about/for
- be remorseful about
- rue
- apology
- apologies
- expression of regret
- refusal
- nonacceptance
Etymology
It is a late Middle English from the Old French term regreter, which means ‘bewail (the dead)’.
Examples
Here are some of the examples:
- Martha was quick to brush off his regret, telling him it was a fun exercise.
- He didn’t expect the sight of his necklace dangling in the center of her chest to fill him with anything other than regret or dread.
- My only regret is that it resulted in the loss of one of my dearest friends, Mr. Anagnos.
- He didn’t regret what he had done, even if it plunged his war-beleaguered people into another war.
- I think a few years from now or twenty years from now I’ll wish I had children, but I don’t think I’ll ever regret marrying Alex.
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