regret - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
regret Word Meanings
- to feel sad about something that happened
- to wish that something had been different
- a feeling of sorrow or remorse
regret Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
regret Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈɡrɛt/
US
/rɪˈɡrɛt/
regret Word Etymology
re- = again + gratere = to please; Old French 'regretter' → English 'regret'. Imagine a person looking back at their past, sighing deeply, and wishing they could change their decisions.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean in, move a chair closer to the desk, and hold my breath as a decision lands in my mind. A memory shifts in my head, and my body changes its balance as I weigh the outcome again. A note of regret sits in my chest, soft but persistent, and I push it away only to pull it back with a sigh. The feeling eases into resolve, and I adjust just enough to promise a different choice next time.
Real Context
Regret is a feeling you have when you wish you could undo or change something that happened in the past. In English, regret can be a verb or a noun. As a verb, you typically say regret doing something (I regret telling him the truth) or regret to inform/ regret that (I regret to inform you that your application was unsuccessful). As a noun, regret is the feeling itself (a deep regret, a sense of remorse). People often confuse regret with apology, but regret emphasizes the outcome or choice, not the act of apologizing. Learners should notice common collocations, such as regretful, bitterly regret, and express different degrees of regret with adverbs like profoundly or deeply.
Usage Reminders
- Use regret for past actions you genuinely wish you hadn’t done. Distinguish regret from apology: you can regret something without apologizing. Remember the two verb forms: regret doing something and regret to inform/ regret that. Intensify with deeply/bitterly when appropriate. Avoid overusing regret in casual speech; reserve it for meaningful remorse.
Common Misconceptions
- Regret is the same as apologizing; it is not always about saying sorry to someone.
- Regret only fits past actions, not future plans or hypothetical choices.
- Regret must be followed by 'to' or 'doing' in every case; there are specific patterns.
- Confusing regret with nostalgia; regret implies remorse for a decision or outcome.
- Using 'regret that' with a clause is formal and not common in everyday speech.
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate regret (remorse about past choices) from apology, and uses two verb patterns (doing vs to inform). Learners must notice nuance and tone; overuse can sound melodramatic.
Learning Tips
- Practice both regret doing something and regret to inform/ regret that in context.
- Pair with adverbs like deeply, profoundly, or bitterly to show intensity.
- Compare regret with apologies; note when you can express remorse without saying sorry.
- Use patient, reflective scenarios to avoid sounding melodramatic.
- Read formal letters to see 'regret to inform' in action.
- Create short diary entries about past decisions to reinforce usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'regret'?
A.Enjoy
B.Hope
C.Forgive
D.Remorse
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'regret' used correctly?
A.She never felt any regret for her actions.
B.He celebrated his success without regret.
C.I regret to inform you about the good news.
D.Regret is a feeling of happiness.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'regret'?
A.Glee
B.Joy
C.Pride
D.Satisfaction
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would someone experience 'regret'?
A.Winning a lottery
B.Making a wrong decision
C.Graduating from college
D.Being praised for hard work
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example sentence using the word 'regret'?
A.I celebrate my regretful choices.
B.I am happy about my regretful decision.
C.Regret is a feeling of success.
D.I regret not studying harder for the exam.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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