Rue Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
rue
[ruห ]
Definitions
feeling regret
Rue is a term used to express a deep sense of regret or remorse for something that has happened or not happened. It often encompasses feelings of sorrow for past actions or decisions that one wishes could be changed. In literature, rueing is commonly associated with themes of loss, disappointment, or moral conflict. The word suggests a weighty sense of guilt and introspection.
Synonyms
lament, regret, repent, sorrow.
Examples of usage
- She began to rue the day she made that decision.
- He often found himself rueing missed opportunities in his life.
- They rue the loss of their friendship after the argument.
feeling regret
To rue is to feel sadness or remorse about something that has occurred. It is often used when someone realizes the negative consequences of their actions or when they wish they had acted differently. When one rues a situation, it indicates a reflection on the decision-making process and acknowledgment of error or misfortune.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He ruefully admitted that he should have listened to her advice.
- She ruefully thought of all the things left unsaid.
- They rue the time wasted on trivial matters.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' the character expresses regret through the use of 'rue,' adding depth to themes of remorse.
- The word appears in various poems and songs, often to evoke feelings of sadness and contemplation.
- Classic writers like John Milton and Geoffrey Chaucer incorporated 'rue' to depict life's sorrows and dilemmas.
Psychology
- Feeling rue is linked to what psychologists call 'counterfactual thinking,' where one imagines how things could have been better.
- Studies show that regret can provoke strong emotions and influence future decision-making.
- The emotional experience of rue can even lead to personal growth and behavioral changes over time.
Cultural References
- In many cultures, expressions of rue are tied to the idea of learning from mistakes, often seen as a part of personal growth.
- Films and literature often use characters who feel rueful to highlight their journey or transformation.
- The phrase 'to rue the day' is common and expresses a strong sentiment of wishing something had never happened.
Origin of 'rue'
Main points about word origin
- 'Rue' comes from the Old English word 'rลซgan,' which meant to grieve or to repent.
- The word has roots in Latin, the term 'rugere,' which translates to 'to groan,' tying pain to the emotion of regret.
- In Middle English, 'rue' also meant 'to have pity' or 'to feel sorry,' showing its connection with empathy.
The word 'rue' originates from the Old English term 'hrฤow', which translates to 'sorrow' or 'repentance'. This term has cognates in several Germanic languages, indicating a shared notion of remorse and regret. The roots of 'rue' can also be traced back to the Proto-West Germanic *hrฤwล, signifying a profound emotional state. Since its introduction into the English language, 'rue' has maintained its core meaning related to feelings of regret and sorrow, evolving in its applications across literature and conversational use. The word has appeared in various literary works, emphasizing themes of remorse and the consequences of one's choices, thereby solidifying its place in the English lexicon. Over time, 'rue' has also been used metaphorically, extending beyond personal regret to encompass societal and historical mourning, making it a versatile term in both written and spoken language.