express regrets

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "express regrets" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when conveying feelings of sorrow or disappointment about a situation or action. Example: "I would like to express regrets for my earlier comments." Alternative expressions include "offer apologies" and "convey remorse."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"I express regrets, regrets, regrets," he said.

Independent

This literally means to deeply express regrets or an apology.

The New York Times

(Nixon: "I don't intend to express regrets to Mr. Khruschev").

The New Yorker

The soldiers themselves, more often than not, don't express regrets, say they would do it again.

The New York Times

When I talk about how great university was, or express regrets, you say, 'That's done.

The Guardian

"I express regrets," Aussaresses said in a 2001 interview with the Associated Press.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

We express regret at this".

The Guardian

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "express regrets", ensure the context clarifies the specific action or situation you are regretting to avoid ambiguity. For example, "I express regrets for the delay in the project delivery."

Common error

Avoid using "express regrets" when the situation demands a deeper acknowledgement of guilt and responsibility. "Regret" acknowledges sorrow, while "remorse" implies a profound sense of guilt. If the situation involves causing significant harm, consider conveying remorse instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "express regrets" functions as a performative utterance, where the act of saying the words constitutes the action itself. It's used to formally communicate sorrow or disappointment. Ludwig AI confirms this through its examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "express regrets" is a common and grammatically correct way to formally convey sorrow or disappointment, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly used in news and media, it suits neutral to formal contexts, making it ideal for official statements and business communications. While similar to "offer an apology", it subtly differs by focusing more on conveying sorrow than directly seeking forgiveness. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates what you are regretting to avoid ambiguity. Although the phrase is generally considered to be correct, avoid using it when the situation demands a deeper acknowledgement of guilt and responsibility, and consider conveying remorse instead.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

voice regret

Similar meaning, but puts the emphasis on the act of speaking out.

apologize for

Directly states the act of apologizing.

offer an apology

Focuses more directly on delivering an apology.

convey remorse

Emphasizes the feeling of deep regret or guilt.

show contrition

Highlights the act of being remorseful and repentant.

deplore the action

Expresses strong disapproval and regret about an action.

feel sorry

Indicates a feeling of sorrow or pity.

lament the situation

Focuses on expressing sorrow or grief about a particular situation.

rue the day

Expresses extreme regret or bitterness about something.

take responsibility

Highlights accepting accountability, often implying regret.

FAQs

How can I use "express regrets" in a sentence?

You can use "express regrets" to formally convey sorrow or disappointment about a situation. For example, "The company would like to "express regrets" for any inconvenience caused by the service disruption."

What's the difference between "express regrets" and "offer an apology"?

"Express regrets" conveys sorrow or disappointment, while "offer an apology" is a more direct way of seeking forgiveness. "I express my regrets" might acknowledge a situation, whereas "I offer an apology" directly seeks to mend the relationship damaged by it.

Which is more formal, "express regrets" or "apologize"?

"Express regrets" tends to be more formal than simply "apologize". It's often used in official statements or formal communications, while "apologize" is suitable for both formal and informal settings.

What are some situations where it's appropriate to "express regrets"?

It's appropriate to ""express regrets"" in situations involving unintentional harm, inconveniences, or failures. It can be used in formal apologies, diplomatic contexts, or business communications.