Unrepentant: meaning, definitions and examples

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unrepentant

 

[ ˌʌnrɪˈpentənt ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Showing no regret or remorse for one's actions; unapologetic.

Synonyms

defiant, unapologetic, unashamed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unrepentant

This word is most appropriately used to describe someone who does not feel regret or remorse for their actions, especially when they have done something that is generally considered wrong.

  • He remained unrepentant even after being confronted with the evidence of his wrongdoing
unapologetic

This word is used when someone does not show regret or apologise for their actions or statements. It suggests a strong confidence or belief in what they have done or said.

  • She was unapologetic about her decision to leave the company, believing it was the best choice for her career
unashamed

This word describes someone who does not feel embarrassed or guilty about their actions. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the situation.

  • He was unashamed of his past mistakes, using them as lessons to improve his life
defiant

Use this word when someone is openly resisting authority or rules. It often implies a bold or rebellious attitude.

  • The teenager answered the teacher in a defiant manner, refusing to follow the school rules

Examples of usage

  • He remained unrepentant despite the criticism.
  • The criminal was unrepentant for his crimes.
Context #2 | Adjective

attitude

Persisting in a particular belief, opinion, or course of action without regret or change; unbowed.

Synonyms

stubborn, unwavering, unyielding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unrepentant

This word was listed twice; please refer to the first entry.

stubborn

Describes someone who refuses to change their mind or behavior, even when shown valid reasons or evidence. It can be used in both negative and neutral contexts.

  • He's very stubborn about his opinions and won't listen to others.
  • Her stubborn determination helped her succeed despite many obstacles.
unyielding

Used to describe someone not willing to change their opinion or be flexible. It can be both negative and positive, depending on the scenario.

  • He had an unyielding attitude towards the new policy changes.
  • Her unyielding determination led to significant breakthroughs.
unwavering

Typically used to describe someone who is very firm and steady in their beliefs, support, or commitment. This term has a positive connotation.

  • Her unwavering support helped him through tough times.
  • The team showed unwavering dedication to the project.

Examples of usage

  • She was unrepentant in her pursuit of justice.
  • The activist remained unrepentant in the face of opposition.

Translations

Translations of the word "unrepentant" in other languages:

🇵🇹 impenitente

🇮🇳 अपराधबोधहीन

🇩🇪 unbußfertig

🇮🇩 tidak bertobat

🇺🇦 некаючийся

🇵🇱 niepokutujący

🇯🇵 悔い改めない

🇫🇷 impénitent

🇪🇸 impenitente

🇹🇷 pişman olmayan

🇰🇷 회개하지 않는

🇸🇦 غير تائب

🇨🇿 nepokorný

🇸🇰 nepokorný

🇨🇳 不知悔改的

🇸🇮 nepokoren

🇮🇸 ósjálfráður

🇰🇿 тәубесіз

🇬🇪 მოუნანიებელი

🇦🇿 tövbəsiz

🇲🇽 impenitente

Etymology

The word 'unrepentant' originated from the combination of 'un-' meaning not and 'repentant' meaning feeling or expressing regret or remorse. It first appeared in the late 16th century and has been used to describe individuals who refuse to show regret for their actions or beliefs.

See also: repent, repentance, repentant, repentantly.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,921, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.