Synonym Chooser

How is the word contrition distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of contrition are compunction, penitence, remorse, and repentance. While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

When might compunction be a better fit than contrition?

The synonyms compunction and contrition are sometimes interchangeable, but compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

When would penitence be a good substitute for contrition?

The meanings of penitence and contrition largely overlap; however, penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

When is remorse a more appropriate choice than contrition?

The words remorse and contrition can be used in similar contexts, but remorse suggests prolonged and insistent self-reproach and mental anguish for past wrongs and especially for those whose consequences cannot be remedied.

thieves untroubled by feelings of remorse

When is it sensible to use repentance instead of contrition?

In some situations, the words repentance and contrition are roughly equivalent. However, repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of contrition His legacy with the Heat is blown apart, beyond repair without at least unexpected contrition from him that his behavior has been stunningly unprofessional and a flat betrayal of the team paying him $48,798,677 this season. Greg Cote, Miami Herald, 24 Jan. 2025 All Your Faces > Sing Sing Jeanne Herry observes contrition among society’s criminals and their victims, a deeper dive than the incoherent sentimentality of Greg Kwedar’s incarceral black-Latino pity party. Armond White, National Review, 8 Jan. 2025 There have been plenty of opportunities for humility, sobriety, contrition. Martin McKenzie-Murray, SPIN, 7 Jan. 2025 If the ensuing cleanup operation wasn't going to be difficult enough, the cat's clear lack of regret and contrition made matters even worse. George Monastiriakos, Newsweek, 30 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for contrition
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contrition
Noun
  • Many people on Wall Street are also suffering from buyer’s remorse.
    John Cassidy, New Yorker, 7 Apr. 2025
  • The Major Systems Check Out A new home that turns out to be an unexpected money pit is among the top causes of buyer’s remorse.
    Berit Thorkelson, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • His act of sacrifice was a culmination of his guilt over not doing enough to help June before.
    Abigail Lee, Variety, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Woman Cuts Off Sister Following Fight Over $60,000 Inheritance from Their Dad — Who's Still Alive Most Redditors agreed that the woman should keep her legal share of the money — and not feel the slightest bit of guilt about it.
    Toria Sheffield, People.com, 6 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Even if a Super Bowl never came for the duo of Martin and Smith, something both acknowledged as their only regret from their respective careers, each played a pivotal role in maintaining the storied tradition of the Dallas offensive line.
    Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Apr. 2025
  • Meanwhile, Odom told PEOPLE in 2019 of his deep regret at cheating on his ex-wife.
    Michael Nied, People.com, 16 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Contrition.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrition. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on contrition

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