This is regrettable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "This is regrettable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express disappointment or sorrow about a situation or event that has occurred. Example: "The cancellation of the event due to unforeseen circumstances is regrettable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

This is regrettable.

The New York Times

This is regrettable and unfortunate.

The New Yorker

This is regrettable, because it is fostering a sense of complacency that can have dire consequences.

The New York Times

This is regrettable, and is a serious and unjustified blow to in-house lawyers.

The Guardian

This is regrettable, for the report could have stirred the conscience of the nation.

The New York Times

"This is regrettable that people's manners and behaviours can reach this point," Jubari said in Geneva.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

This was regrettable.

Independent

Some top Poles agree that this was regrettable.

The Economist

This was regrettable, yet serves to underline the fact that the subsidy option only needs a repair and not the burial long sought by the Senate Republican minority leader, Mitch McConnell, and other devotees of unlimited corporate donations.

The New York Times

This practice is regrettable and ought to be stopped immediately".

BBC

"This violence is regrettable and counterproductive," AER in England wrote.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "This is regrettable" to introduce a statement explaining why a situation is unfortunate. Provide context or reasons for the regret.

Common error

Avoid using "This is regrettable" as a standalone statement. Always follow it with a clear explanation of why the situation is regrettable to give the reader a complete understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "This is regrettable" functions as a comment clause or introductory phrase, expressing disappointment or disapproval regarding a specific situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and conveys a clear sentiment of regret.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "This is regrettable" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express disappointment or disapproval, often followed by an explanation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for neutral to formal contexts, primarily appearing in news, scientific, and business communications. While alternatives like "It's unfortunate" or "It's a pity" exist, they carry slightly different connotations. Therefore, it's crucial to use "This is regrettable" thoughtfully, providing context to ensure clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

It's unfortunate

More general expression of bad luck or disappointment, less formal.

It's a pity

Expresses a sense of sadness or disappointment about something.

It's disappointing

Directly expresses disappointment.

It's a matter of regret

More formal way to express regret.

It's a source of regret

Highlights the lasting nature of the regret.

It's lamentable

A more emphatic and formal expression of regret.

It's deplorable

Implies strong disapproval and condemnation, stronger than "regrettable".

It's a crying shame

Informal way of expressing strong disapproval and disappointment.

It's a lost cause

Indicates that an effort is futile or impossible to salvage, suggesting hopelessness.

That's too bad

Informal way of expressing sympathy or regret.

FAQs

How can I use "This is regrettable" in a sentence?

Use "This is regrettable" to introduce a negative fact or situation you want to express disappointment about. For example, "This is regrettable that the event was cancelled."

What are some alternatives to "This is regrettable"?

You can use alternatives such as "It's unfortunate", "It's a pity", or "It's disappointing" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "This is regrettable"?

Use "This is regrettable" when you want to express a sense of disappointment or sorrow about a particular situation. It's suitable for formal and neutral contexts.

What's the difference between "This is regrettable" and "This is unfortunate"?

"This is regrettable" carries a slightly stronger tone of disappointment and may imply a sense of responsibility or preventability, whereas "This is unfortunate" is a more general expression of bad luck.