REPENTANCE Synonyms: 37 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'repentance' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of repentance are compunction , contrition , penitence , and remorse . While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change. // repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

Q: When could 'compunction' be used to replace 'repentance'?

In some situations, the words compunction and repentance are roughly equivalent. However, compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing. // had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

Q: When is it sensible to use 'contrition' instead of 'repentance'?

The words contrition and repentance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence. // tearful expressions of contrition

Q: When is 'penitence' a more appropriate choice than 'repentance'?

The words penitence and repentance can be used in similar contexts, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds. // absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

Q: When can 'remorse' be used instead of 'repentance'?

Although the words remorse and repentance have much in common, 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

repentance

noun

ri-ˈpen-tᵊn(t)s

Definition of repentance next

as in remorse

a feeling of responsibility for wrongdoing preached that repentance was the first step on the path of redemption

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word repentance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of repentance are compunction, contrition, penitence, and remorse. While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

When could compunction be used to replace repentance?

In some situations, the words compunction and repentance are roughly equivalent. However, 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 repentance?

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

tearful expressions of contrition

When is penitence a more appropriate choice than repentance?

The words penitence and repentance can be used in similar contexts, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

When can remorse be used instead of repentance?

Although the words remorse and repentance have much in common, 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

Examples 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 repentance Symbols of Shiite piety and repentance include red flags for Hussein’s blood and black garments for mourning. —

Kathleen Magramo, CNN, 18 July 2024 Fiction, nonfiction, and film have contemplated their humiliation and rage, their professional downfalls, their denials or repentance, their rehabilitation or exile. —

Seyward Darby, Longreads, 16 July 2024 For Viganò, repentance, at least for now, seems unlikely. —

Michelle Boorstein, Washington Post, 5 July 2024 According to Sandford, Lustig was working on one more skill to add to his repertoire before his death: repentance. —

thehustle.co, 1 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for repentance

Recent Examples of Synonyms for repentance

Noun

Of course, Billy is devastated by the deaths this led to, showing true remorse.

Erik Kain, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024
Strapped to the execution table with IV lines in place, Dearman expressed his remorse to the families of his victims, who were also present.

Abigail Brooks, NBC News, 18 Oct. 2024