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Regrettably Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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regrettably

[rɪˈɡrɛtəbli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

formal

In a way that involves feeling sad or sorry about something.

Synonyms

apologetically, sadly, unfortunately.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
regrettably

Used to express sorrow or disappointment about a situation, often in a formal context.

  • Regrettably, we must cancel the event due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Regrettably, she could not attend the meeting.
unfortunately

Used to express bad luck or an unwanted outcome, typically in a neutral to mildly negative tone.

  • Unfortunately, the store was closed when we arrived.
  • The weather, unfortunately, ruined our plans.
sadly

Used to express sorrow, often in an informal or personal context.

  • Sadly, he couldn't make it to the party.
  • Sadly, their dog passed away last week.
apologetically

Used when expressing an apology or showing regret for an action, often with a sense of personal accountability.

  • He smiled apologetically after interrupting her.
  • She explained the delay apologetically.

Examples of usage

  • He regrettably informed us that the event had been canceled.
  • She regrettably admitted her mistake.
  • They regrettably had to decline the invitation.
Context #2 | Adverb

informal

Used to introduce a statement expressing sadness or disappointment.

Synonyms

sadly, unfortunately, with regret.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
regrettably

Used in formal contexts to express sadness or disappointment, often when delivering bad news or acknowledging a mistake.

  • Regrettably, the event has been canceled due to unexpected circumstances
unfortunately

Commonly used to express unsatisfactory or undesirable situations, with a neutral or slightly negative tone.

  • Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend the meeting tomorrow
sadly

Often used in informal or conversational contexts to convey sorrow or disappointment.

  • Sadly, our favorite restaurant is closing down
with regret

Typically used in formal writing or speeches, especially when making official statements or apologies.

  • It is with regret that we announce the retirement of our CEO

Examples of usage

  • Regrettably, I won't be able to attend the party.
  • I regrettably have to inform you that the project is postponed.
  • Regrettably, the outcome was not as expected.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'regrettably'

The word 'regrettably' originated from the verb 'regret', which comes from the Old French word 'regreter', meaning 'bewail the dead'. Over time, 'regret' evolved to include the feeling of sorrow or disappointment. The adverb 'regrettably' was formed by adding the suffix '-ably' to 'regret', indicating the manner in which something is done with sorrow or disappointment.

See also: regret, regretful, regretfully, regrettable.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,307, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.