Regrettable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Psychology

• Feeling regret often leads to what's called 'counterfactual thinking,' where we imagine how things could have turned out differently.
• Studies show that people remember their regrets more vividly than their successes, highlighting the emotional weight of regret.

Pop Culture

• The theme of regret is prevalent in songs and movies, often depicted in narratives where characters reflect on their choices.
• Classic songs like 'Regrets' by The Beatles capture the sentiment of feeling regretful about past actions.

Literature

• Many novels explore characters' internal struggles with regret, emphasizing its role in personal growth.
• Shakespeare's work often highlights regret as a driving force in the tragic choices characters make.

Philosophy

• Philosophers discuss regret in the context of moral responsibility, suggesting it can lead to better decision-making.
• The concept of 'regret' is key in ethical discussions surrounding actions and their moral implications.

Main points about word origin

• The word combines 'regret,' from Latin 'regretare,' meaning 'to weep again,' with the suffix '-able,' indicating the possibility of feeling regret.
• It was first used in the English language in the early 19th century, illustrating how long the concept has been around.

The word 'regrettable' originated from the verb 'regret,' which comes from the Old French word 'regreter,' meaning 'bewail the dead.' Over time, the meaning evolved to express a sense of sorrow or disappointment for something that has happened. The adjective 'regrettable' first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century.

See also: regret, regretful, regretfully, regrettably.

With rank #17,098, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

• ...
• 17095 menopause
• 17096 cogent
• 17097 exegesis
• 17098 regrettable
• 17099 citizenry
• 17100 stretcher
• 17101 blasphemy
• ...