pangs of regret

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pangs of regret" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden, sharp feeling of remorse or sorrow about something that has happened or a decision that has been made. Example: "After realizing the impact of his words, he was hit by pangs of regret that lingered throughout the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Science|In That Tucked Tail, Real Pangs of Regret?

The New York Times - Science

In That Tucked Tail, Real Pangs of Regret?

The New York Times - Science

Could any animal feel true pangs of regret?

The New York Times - Science

The Jets left the stadium with pangs of regret.

The New York Times - Sports

Nobody wanted that: hence the bulldozing.It was not done without some pangs of regret.

The Economist

She admits to being "permanently exhausted" and suffering from pangs of regret, rage and guilt.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

I instantly felt a pang of regret.

The New York Times

Lan admits to a pang of regret.

The Guardian

All the same, it causes a pang of regret.

The Guardian

While drinking and flirting at a book party, the author feels a pang of regret.

The New Yorker

Every time we finish one of these talks, I have a pang of regret.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pangs of regret" to describe a sudden, sharp feeling of sorrow or remorse, particularly about something that has already happened.

Common error

Avoid using "pangs of regret" for mild disappointments. Reserve it for situations where the regret is significant and emotionally impactful. For less severe situations, consider alternatives like "slight disappointment" or "minor misgivings".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pangs of regret" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an intense and sudden feeling of sorrow or remorse. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pangs of regret" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun phrase to describe a sharp, sudden feeling of sorrow or remorse. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it effectively conveys emotional pain stemming from past actions or decisions. While alternatives like "waves of remorse" or "twinges of regret" exist, "pangs of regret" maintains a unique intensity in expressing this complex emotion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

waves of remorse

Focuses on the intensity and overwhelming nature of the feeling.

twinges of regret

Emphasizes a slight or momentary feeling of regret.

moments of remorse

Highlights the temporary nature of the feeling.

feelings of sorrow

Focuses on the sadness associated with regret.

bouts of remorse

Suggests recurring episodes of regret.

aches of conscience

Highlights the moral aspect of regret.

remorseful feelings

Emphasizes the emotion of remorse.

deep misgivings

Focuses on strong feelings of doubt or apprehension about past actions.

bitter disappointment

Highlights the disappointment resulting from regret.

heavy-heartedness

Describes a feeling of sadness and regret that weighs one down.

FAQs

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

You can use "pangs of regret" to describe a sudden feeling of remorse or sorrow for something done or not done. For example, "She felt "pangs of regret" after declining the job offer."

What are some alternatives to "pangs of regret"?

Alternatives include "waves of remorse", "twinges of regret", or "moments of remorse", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "pangs of regret" or should it be "pangs for regret"?

"Pangs of regret" is the correct and idiomatic expression. "Pangs for regret" is not commonly used and would sound unnatural.

What is the difference between "pangs of regret" and "feelings of remorse"?

"Pangs of regret" suggests a sharp, sudden feeling, while "feelings of remorse" implies a more sustained and profound sense of regret and guilt.