remorse

Synonym Chooser

How is the word remorse distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of remorse are compunction, contrition, penitence, and repentance. While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," 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 compunction a more appropriate choice than remorse?

While in some cases nearly identical to remorse, compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

When is it sensible to use contrition instead of remorse?

The words contrition and remorse are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

When would penitence be a good substitute for remorse?

The synonyms penitence and remorse are sometimes interchangeable, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

When might repentance be a better fit than remorse?

The words repentance and remorse can be used in similar contexts, but repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

Examples of remorse in a Sentence

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Recent Examples on the Web Dearman expressed remorse over his actions, according to a statement obtained by USA TODAY. Amaris Encinas, USA TODAY, 17 Oct. 2024 Jennifer Beyer, Finch’s former wife, appears in a trailer for the series, expressing remorse for letting Finch into her home and her children’s lives. Rosa Rahimi, CNN, 16 Oct. 2024 During the sentencing in Butler County Common Pleas Court, Mayers' attorney, David Albrecht, and Judge Daniel Haughey emphasized Mayers' remorse, mental health and lack of criminal history. Bebe Hodges, The Enquirer, 15 Oct. 2024 At her court appearances, Lindsay has worn surgical masks, but that hasn’t stopped online spectators from searching her face for signs of remorse. Eren Orbey, The New Yorker, 14 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for remorse 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for remorse
Noun
  • The bottom line is that building wealth doesn’t have to come with a burden of guilt.
    Melissa Houston, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024
  • Banks is indeed presumed innocent, and prosecutors have the burden of proving his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 28 Oct. 2024
Noun
  • Be ready to discuss the aforementioned differences—without judgment or regret.
    Mark Travers, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024
  • Another study published Monday in the journal JAMA Pediatrics reported high levels of satisfaction and low levels of regret among more than 220 young people who had accessed puberty blockers and hormone therapy as kids and teens.
    Brenda Goodman, CNN, 25 Oct. 2024
Noun
  • This constant exposure can fuel feelings of shame, a powerful trigger for substance abuse.
    Will Ripley, CNN, 24 Oct. 2024
  • The brand of politics that Musk and Carlson practice is swaggering and provocative and, as a result, entirely devoid of shame.
    Megan Garber, The Atlantic, 23 Oct. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near remorse

Cite this Entry

“Remorse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/remorse. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on remorse

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