it would be regrettable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it would be regrettable" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to express that something would be unfortunate or disappointing if it were to happen. Example: It would be regrettable if the company decides to lay off its employees during the holiday season.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

It would be regrettable if the G7 shirked its commitment by leaving the decision to provide financial support in the hands of the EBRD alone.

The Economist

But it would be regrettable.

Independent

It would be regrettable if that debate was stifled.

The Guardian - Opinion

It would be regrettable if Europe saw anything like the deplorable public disturbances created by football rivalries in South America.

The Guardian - Sport

It would be regrettable if too much delay were caused by the slow progress of the US domestic agenda.

The Guardian

"It would be regrettable if there were other resignations, but this is an important point of principle," he added.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

If new evidence about the case emerged it would have to be reassessed, he said, and that would be regrettable.

The New York Times

This would be regrettable since the Al Smith dinner, at its best, exemplifies pluralism and tolerance.

The New York Times

Philippe de Montebello, the director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, which receives 14percentt of its $142 million annual operating budget from the city, said such a panel would be "regrettable" and would "erode the reputation of New York City as a global capital of culture".

The New York Times

That would be regrettable".

The Guardian - Opinion

Such cowardice would be regrettable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "unfortunate" or "disappointing" to vary your language and avoid repetition, especially within the same document or presentation.

Common error

Avoid using "it would be regrettable" in very casual conversations. Simpler phrases like "that's too bad" or "it's a shame" are often more appropriate for informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it would be regrettable" functions as a conditional expression of concern or disappointment. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and used to convey that a specific outcome is undesirable. It serves to soften criticism or express a hope that something negative does not occur.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it would be regrettable" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to convey that a particular situation or event is undesirable or would cause disappointment. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is appropriate for various contexts, although it's more suited to formal and neutral communication rather than casual conversation. The phrase frequently appears in news media, expressing concern over potential negative outcomes. When writing, consider the context and adjust the level of formality accordingly, choosing simpler alternatives such as "it would be a shame" for informal settings. By understanding its appropriate usage, you can effectively communicate your concerns or express mild disapproval without being overly critical.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it would be unfortunate

Replaces "regrettable" with a more neutral term indicating a negative outcome.

it would be a pity

Uses a more colloquial expression to convey a sense of disappointment.

it would be disappointing

Emphasizes the feeling of letdown that would result.

it would be a matter for regret

Formalizes the expression, highlighting the future feeling of remorse.

it would be a cause for concern

Shifts the focus to the potential worry or anxiety that would arise.

it would be undesirable

Indicates that the outcome is not wanted or preferred.

it would be unwelcome

Highlights that the potential outcome is not wanted or appreciated.

it would be lamentable

Uses a more elevated and formal tone to express sorrow.

it's a shame

Offers a simpler, more direct expression of disappointment.

I'd hate to see

Personalizes the sentiment, expressing a strong personal aversion.

FAQs

What does "it would be regrettable" mean?

The phrase "it would be regrettable" expresses a sentiment that a particular event or situation would be unfortunate, disappointing, or undesirable. It conveys a sense of concern or mild sorrow about a potential outcome.

How can I use "it would be regrettable" in a sentence?

You can use "it would be regrettable" to express concern about a future event. For example, "It would be regrettable if the project failed" or "It would be regrettable to lose him."

What can I say instead of "it would be regrettable"?

You can use alternatives like "it would be unfortunate", "it would be disappointing", or "it would be a pity" depending on the context.

Is "it would be regrettable" formal or informal?

The phrase "it would be regrettable" is generally considered to be more formal. In more casual settings, you might opt for phrases like "it's a shame" or "that's too bad".