Regretful: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone feels sad and disappointed about something they did or did not do. It usually indicates a sense of wishing things had been different.

• He was regretful about not attending the meeting.
• I feel regretful for missing her birthday party.

A common and versatile word used to apologize or show sympathy for something minor or casual. Can also be used to express regret.

• I'm sorry for being late.
• She felt sorry for the stray dog.

Conveys a deep and profound sadness, often related to loss, grief, or mourning.

• The sorrowful look in his eyes was unmistakable.
• It was a sorrowful day when she passed away.

Typically used to describe a deep sense of guilt or shame for a wrongdoing, often more serious or moral in nature.

• She was remorseful for her harsh words.
• The thief appeared genuinely remorseful in court.

Feeling sadness or disappointment over something that happened or something that one did. It expresses a general sense of sorrow.

• She felt regretful about the harsh words she had spoken.
• After the incident, he was regretful and wished he could take it back.

Feeling or showing regret for having done something wrong; ready to acknowledge mistakes and often immediately express it. Typically used in social or polite contexts.

• He gave an apologetic smile and admitted his mistake.
• She was apologetic for arriving late to the meeting.

Feeling or expressing remorse or penitence; affected by guilt. It suggests a deeper level of sorrow and a sense of guilt.

• After realizing the consequences of his actions, he was truly contrite.
• Her contrite behavior showed she was sincerely sorry for her mistakes.

Feeling or showing sorrow and regret for having done wrong; typically for moral or religious reasons. It often implies a desire for forgiveness.

• The penitent man went to confession to seek forgiveness.
• She had a penitent look as she apologized for her actions.