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remorse

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "remorse": Remorse is a deep, heavy feeling of regret or moral guilt for something you have done wrong. It goes

What does "remorse" mean?

Remorse is a deep, heavy feeling of regret or moral guilt for something you have done wrong. It goes beyond simple disappointment; it is a painful, gnawing realization that your actions have caused harm or violated your own personal values. While "regret" can be used for minor things like missing a train, "remorse" is reserved for serious situations involving hurt or wrongdoing. It is often used in legal contexts, such as a judge considering a defendant's "expression of remorse," but it also appears in personal contexts when someone genuinely seeks forgiveness for a significant mistake.

"remorse" in conversation

A sincere apology

I know I hurt you, and I feel nothing but remorse for what I said.

I know I hurt you, and I feel nothing but remorse for what I said.

I appreciate you saying that. It means a lot to hear it.

I appreciate you saying that. It means a lot to hear it.

Remorse is often used to emphasize the depth of an apology.

Discussing a character in a book

Do you think he actually feels remorse, or is he just sorry he got caught?

Do you think he actually feels remorse, or is he just sorry he got caught?

I think it's the latter. He hasn't changed his behavior at all.

I think it's the latter. He hasn't changed his behavior at all.

People often distinguish between genuine remorse and the fear of consequences.

"remorse" in a sentence

  1. She felt a sudden pang of remorse for her harsh words.

    She felt a sudden pang of remorse for her harsh words.

  2. The prisoner showed no remorse for his crimes during the trial.

    The prisoner showed no remorse for his crimes during the trial.

  3. He was consumed by remorse after realizing the long-term impact of his decision.

    He was consumed by remorse after realizing the long-term impact of his decision.

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