I am regrettably

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I am regrettably" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing sorrow or disappointment about a situation or action. Example: "I am regrettably unable to attend the meeting due to a prior commitment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

My crime might have been more thrilling had it been executed by someone better versed in the history of architecture — the equivalent of a Beatles' fan breaking into Lennon's childhood bedroom to play his first banjo — but I am, regrettably, no expert in architecture.

The New Yorker

I met David while he was hanging around/working at a place call Dub Spot, which was run by twin Japanese sisters whose names I am regrettably forgetting.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A couple of years ago, on an evening from which I was regrettably absent, a few friends of mine ended up partying with Andrew W.K. If you're familiar with the 32-year-old American rock star/celebrated hedonist/motivational speaker, you'll know that this is a big deal.

Independent

I know that this is a major accusation to make against a whole culture, but it is, regrettably, quite true.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I regret to inform you that I found one flaw in this otherwise perfect masterpiece, a flaw that is, regrettably, very common with you.

The Guardian - Books

My language skills are regrettably not up to the task of assessing the quality of the writing, which I left to my two Chinese fellow judges.

The Guardian

The outcome was regrettably awkward.

The New York Times - Sports

It was, regrettably, in Swedish.

The New Yorker

This is regrettably not the first time".

The New York Times

Many families and neighbourhoods are regrettably dysfunctional.

Independent

A few narrative points are regrettably clear.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I am regrettably" to soften bad news or express disappointment in a formal and polite manner. It's particularly useful when delivering news that might negatively impact the recipient.

Common error

Avoid using "I am regrettably" in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or insincere. Opt for simpler phrases like "I'm sorry" or "Unfortunately" in these situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I am regrettably" functions as an introductory expression of regret followed by a statement of inability or disappointment. It sets a tone of politeness and formality when delivering bad news or declining an invitation, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I am regrettably" serves as a polite and somewhat formal way to introduce bad news or express an inability to do something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, though its frequency is rare. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts. While effective in softening negative messages, it should be used judiciously to avoid sounding insincere. Alternatives such as "I am unfortunately" or "I am sorry to say" might be more appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I am unfortunately

Replaces "regrettably" with a more common synonym, indicating a similar sense of disappointment.

Regretfully, I am

Inverts the phrase, placing emphasis on regret while keeping similar structure.

Sadly, I am

Replaces "regrettably" with "sadly" to express a sense of sorrow or unhappiness about the situation.

I am sorry to say

Shifts from an adverb to an explicit expression of sorrow, suitable for delivering bad news.

With regret, I am

Introduces the statement with an open expression of regret, suitable for formal communications.

I am disappointed to

Explicitly states disappointment rather than implying it through regret.

I am unable to

Focuses on the inability to perform an action, downplaying the emotional aspect of regret.

I must decline

Presents a formal refusal, suitable for professional contexts where direct regret is less appropriate.

I am loath to

Emphasizes reluctance, suggesting a disinclination towards a particular action or outcome.

I am hesitant to

Highlights uncertainty and reservation, indicating a cautious approach.

FAQs

How can I use "I am regrettably" in a sentence?

You can use "I am regrettably" to express disappointment or inability to do something. For example, "I am regrettably unable to attend the meeting due to a prior commitment".

What's a less formal alternative to "I am regrettably"?

In more casual settings, consider using phrases like "I am sorry", or "unfortunately".

Is "I am regrettably" suitable for professional communication?

Yes, "I am regrettably" is appropriate for professional communication when you need to convey disappointment or inability in a polite and formal manner.

What's the difference between "I am regrettably" and "I am regretfully"?

While both convey regret, "I am regrettably" focuses more on the unfortunate situation, while "I am regretfully" emphasizes the speaker's feeling of regret. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight the situation or your emotional state.