a regrettable expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a regrettable expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a statement or phrase that is unfortunate or causes disappointment. Example: "His comment during the meeting was a regrettable expression of his true feelings about the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But for a regrettable minority, the Asian face seems to be a topic of conversation.

The Economist

That's a regrettable situation".

The New York Times

"This was a regrettable incident.

Independent

That's a regrettable motive.

The New York Times

The snowstorm was a regrettable incident.

The New York Times

Outside America there is a regrettable degree of public prurience.

The Economist

But there has been a regrettable downsizing of aspirations.

The New York Times

(All meals begin with a regrettable green salad).

The New York Times - Sports

· A regrettable Oriental number entitled "Shanghai-Dee-Ho".

The New Yorker

FOR most of us, banking is a regrettable necessity.

The Economist

That was a regrettable mistake, but hardly tells the story.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a regrettable expression", consider the specific context and audience to ensure the gravity of the situation is accurately conveyed.

Common error

Avoid using "a regrettable expression" in trivial or insignificant situations, as it can diminish the impact of the phrase when a truly serious matter arises.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a regrettable expression" functions as a noun phrase, where "regrettable" modifies the noun "expression". As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in English. It typically serves to identify a specific statement or utterance as unfortunate or causing disappointment.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a regrettable expression" is a valid and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a statement that is unfortunate or causes disappointment. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its usability. While the phrase itself is appropriate, its usage is context-dependent and should align with the gravity of the situation to maintain its intended impact. Alternatives like "an unfortunate statement" or "a lamentable remark" can provide nuanced variations for specific scenarios. Despite the lack of direct examples from the search data, the general analysis supports its correct usage in formal or neutral contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unfortunate statement

Replaces "expression" with "statement" and "regrettable" with "unfortunate", focusing on the content rather than the manner of communication.

a lamentable remark

Substitutes "regrettable" with "lamentable" and "expression" with "remark", implying a sense of sorrow or grief.

an ill-advised comment

Replaces "regrettable" with "ill-advised" and "expression" with "comment", suggesting poor judgment or a lack of foresight.

an unfortunate choice of words

Focuses specifically on the wording used, highlighting that the selection of words was the source of regret.

a poor reflection

Shifts the focus to the negative impression created by the expression.

a damaging assertion

Emphasizes the harmful consequences of the expression.

a regrettable utterance

Uses a more formal synonym for "expression", implying a sense of formality or gravity.

an unwelcome pronouncement

Highlights the negative reception of the expression.

a clumsy formulation

Focuses on the awkward or inept way the expression was phrased.

an embarrassing disclosure

Emphasizes the shame or awkwardness resulting from the expression.

FAQs

How can I use "a regrettable expression" in a sentence?

You can use "a regrettable expression" to describe something someone said or wrote that caused disappointment or was unfortunate. For example, "His comment during the meeting was a regrettable expression of his true feelings about the project."

What are some alternatives to "a regrettable expression"?

You can use alternatives like "an unfortunate statement", "a lamentable remark", or "an ill-advised comment depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "a regrettable expression" or "a regrettable statement"?

Both "a regrettable expression" and "a regrettable statement" are grammatically correct, but they carry slightly different connotations. "Expression" refers more broadly to a way of conveying something, while "statement" specifically refers to a declarative sentence or assertion.

What's the difference between "a regrettable expression" and "an unfortunate remark"?

"A regrettable expression" and "an unfortunate remark" are similar, but "regrettable" suggests a deeper sense of sorrow or disappointment, while "unfortunate" implies bad luck or circumstance. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.