a source of regret

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of regret" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that causes feelings of sadness or disappointment about a past action or decision. Example: "Not pursuing my passion for art has always been a source of regret for me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

In many ways, that's a source of regret.

The Guardian

This should be a source of regret to us all.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a source of regret but also, perversely, of pride.

Independent

Is it a source of regret now? "I think so, yes, yes, certainly".

Independent

Had it finished 0-0, the decision would have been a source of regret.

The Guardian - Sport

"It must always be a source of regret not to have children.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

This should be a source of profound regret for anyone who cares about cricket.

The Guardian - Sport

The practicalities of life in Nigeria, however, are a source of great regret and bafflement to Cole.

The Guardian

It is a source of great regret that his time with the company should end in this manner.

The Guardian

This is a source of undying regret to Michael Govan, the current director of the Los Angeles County Museum, who considers it a quintessential Los Angeles picture.

The New Yorker

"No matter how big an impact it has on the outside world, that book will be a source of huge regret to me," he now admits.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a source of regret" to express disappointment about past decisions or events, particularly when highlighting the ongoing impact of those choices. Frame it in a way that acknowledges both the event and the emotional consequence.

Common error

While "a source of regret" is suitable for many situations, avoid using it too casually in informal conversations. Simpler expressions like "I wish I hadn't done that" or "I feel bad about it" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of regret" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts, showing how it identifies something that causes ongoing disappointment or sorrow. The Examples from Ludwig show it being used to describe personal failings, missed opportunities, or unfortunate circumstances.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a source of regret" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe something that causes ongoing disappointment or sadness. Ludwig AI examples highlight its frequent appearance in news and media contexts. When writing, consider the formality of your context and choose simpler expressions for informal settings. To avoid monotony, explore alternatives like ""a regrettable incident"" or ""a reason for sorrow"" based on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a regrettable incident

This alternative focuses on a specific event that is the cause of regret.

a cause for disappointment

This alternative is more general, referring to any situation that causes unhappiness.

reason to be disappointed

This alternative is simpler and more direct, focusing on the feeling of disappointment.

a reason for sorrow

This alternative emphasizes sadness and grief associated with the regret.

a painful memory

This alternative highlights the lingering emotional pain associated with the regret.

a matter of remorse

This alternative focuses on guilt and moral failing associated with the regret.

grounds for lamenting

This alternative suggests a basis or justification for expressing sorrow.

something to be lamented

This alternative suggests a sense of loss and mourning over the regretted event.

something to rue

This alternative is a more formal and literary way to express regret.

an unfortunate circumstance

This alternative downplays the emotional impact, focusing on the bad luck involved.

FAQs

How can I use "a source of regret" in a sentence?

You can use "a source of regret" to describe something that causes ongoing sadness or disappointment. For example, "Not finishing college is a source of regret for him".

What are some alternatives to "a source of regret"?

Alternatives include "a cause for disappointment", "a regrettable incident", or "a reason for sorrow", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe something as "a source of regret"?

Yes, the phrase "a source of regret" inherently carries a negative connotation, indicating disappointment, sadness, or remorse about something.

What's the difference between "a source of regret" and "a cause for concern"?

"A source of regret" refers to past actions or events that cause sadness, while "a cause for concern" refers to current or future situations that raise worries or anxieties. They address different temporal contexts and emotional responses.