express regret

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "express regret" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to convey feelings of sorrow or disappointment about a situation or action. Example: "I would like to express regret for the misunderstanding that occurred during our last meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We express regret at this".

The Guardian

He used that opportunity to express regret for that policy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I express regret that a woman was not chosen.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The released do not express regret or remorse.

The New York Times

"I express regret for my personal failure," he added.

The New York Times

Bob-G: They may express regret but not to humans.

The New York Times

That is why Nawaz was right to express regret.

The Guardian

I wondered if journalists would express regret that someone like Romney wasn't contending.

The New York Times

He is not the only author of that law to express regret.

The New York Times

Writer says New York must express regret at its loss of this gallant organization's headquarters.

The New Yorker

Osborne had called to express regret over how events had evolved.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "express regret", ensure that the context clearly indicates what you are feeling sorry about. Specificity enhances clarity and sincerity.

Common error

Don't just "express regret" without specifying what you regret. Vague expressions can sound insincere or dismissive. Always clearly state the action or situation you are regretting.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "express regret" is as a verb phrase. It typically serves as the main verb or part of the main verb phrase in a sentence. This phrase indicates the action of conveying feelings of sorrow, disappointment, or remorse. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Encyclopedias

6%

Science

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "express regret" is a common and grammatically correct way to convey feelings of sorrow, disappointment, or remorse. Ludwig AI validates its widespread use across various contexts, predominantly in News & Media. While simple, it's important to be specific about what you are regretting to avoid vagueness and ensure sincerity. Alternatives include "convey remorse" or "offer an apology" depending on the level of responsibility you wish to express. Always consider the context and audience when choosing the most appropriate way to communicate your regret.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

convey remorse

Uses a stronger term, 'remorse', to indicate deep regret and guilt.

show contrition

Implies a visible display of repentance and regret for wrongdoing.

offer an apology

Focuses on the act of apologizing rather than just expressing regret.

voice sorrow

Emphasizes the expression of sadness and grief, often in a more general sense.

acknowledge fault

Highlights the admission of responsibility for an error or mistake.

lament the situation

Describes expressing grief or sorrow about a particular circumstance.

rue the day

Expresses extreme regret and sorrow about a specific event or decision.

feel apologetic

Indicates a sense of feeling the need to apologize, often without directly doing so.

deplore the action

Expresses strong disapproval and regret about a particular action or behavior.

be penitent

Indicates a state of feeling or showing sorrow and regret for having done wrong.

FAQs

How do you "express regret" in a sentence?

You can use "express regret" to convey sorrow or disappointment about a situation or action. For example, "I want to express regret for the error in the report."

What's a formal alternative to "express regret"?

A more formal alternative is to "convey remorse", which suggests a deeper sense of sorrow and responsibility.

Is it better to "express regret" or "offer an apology"?

Whether you "express regret" or "offer an apology" depends on the context. An apology is a more direct acceptance of responsibility, while expressing regret can be a more general acknowledgement of sorrow.

When should I use "express regret" instead of "express sorrow"?

Use "express regret" when acknowledging a mistake or wrongdoing. "Express sorrow" is more appropriate when conveying sympathy or sadness about a general situation.