Rued Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rued

[ruː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

regret deeply

To rue something means to feel regret or sorrow for it. This word often describes a sense of mourning for a past decision or action that has led to an unfavorable outcome. It conveys a deep emotional response to lost opportunities or mistakes. The term can reflect a desire for things to have been different or a recognition of the consequences of one's actions.

Synonyms

bemoan, bewail, lament, regret.

Examples of usage

  • He rued his decision to leave the company.
  • She rued the harsh words she had said in anger.
  • They will rue the day they chose to ignore the warning signs.

Translations

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Origin of 'rued'

The word 'rue' originates from the Old English 'hrēow', which denoted a sense of sorrow or regret. It can be traced further back to the Proto-Germanic '*khnēwō', which also conveyed a notion of mourning. Over the centuries, the term has evolved but has retained its core meaning related to regret and sorrow. 'Rue' has been used in literature and common speech since the Middle Ages, often appearing in contexts highlighting the emotional weight of reflecting on past choices. As language developed, 'rue' became associated with both personal and broader societal regrets, embedding itself within various poetic and literary works.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,586, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.