regret to inform

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "regret to inform" is correct and usable in written English.
It is generally used in formal contexts to inform someone about bad news. For example: "We regret to inform you that your application for a loan has been declined."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Today, we regret to inform you that you are spoiled.

The New York Times

"Regret to inform you Captain EH Brittain MC killed in action, Italy, June 15th".

Independent

I regret to inform you, however, that you'll have to buy a canoe pan.

The New York Times

An excerpt: Today, we regret to inform you that you are spoiled.

The New York Times

I regret to inform you that you, too, are going to die.

The New York Times

So I regret to inform you that we must sever all ties.

The New Yorker

There, his boss read from a prepared statement: "We regret to inform you.

The New York Times - Magazine

I was with my aunt when she received the "we regret to inform you" telegram.

The New York Times

I very much regret to inform you that I will be withdrawing my application.

The Guardian - Opinion

(I regret to inform you that, in addition to dogs, lots of grandparents will die, too).

The New Yorker

Alas, I regret to inform you that Dave is unlikely to cut you any slack.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "regret to inform" with a clear and concise explanation of the situation. Avoid ambiguity or euphemisms that could confuse the recipient.

Common error

Avoid using "regret to inform" in casual conversations or informal emails. It can sound overly formal or even sarcastic. Opt for simpler phrases like "I'm sorry to say" or "Unfortunately" in those contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "regret to inform" functions as a declarative expression, used to formally introduce unpleasant or unwelcome information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is typically used to preface bad news, setting a serious tone.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Social Media

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase "regret to inform" is a standard way to introduce bad news in formal communications. It is grammatically correct and "very common" across multiple contexts, including news, business, and science. While effective for conveying seriousness and respect, remember to avoid using "regret to inform" in informal situations where it may sound overly stiff. Alternatives such as "I am sorry to say" or "Unfortunately" may be more appropriate depending on the tone and recipient.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

It is with regret that I inform you

More formal and emphatic restatement of the original phrase.

I must inform you with deep sorrow

Emphasizes the emotional impact of the news.

I am sorry to say that

Less formal than "regret to inform" yet still conveys disappointment.

It pains me to have to say

Highlights the speaker's personal discomfort in delivering the news.

Unfortunately, I must tell you

Emphasizes the unwelcome nature of the news.

We are compelled to advise you

Indicates a formal or legal obligation to provide the information.

We are saddened to announce

Suitable for more public or general announcements of unfortunate events.

We are obliged to report

Suggests a duty or requirement to disclose the information.

We have no choice but to inform you

Highlights the necessity of delivering the information, even if unpleasant.

I'm afraid I have some bad news

A more direct and informal way to preface bad news.

FAQs

What is the best way to use "regret to inform" in a sentence?

Begin with "regret to inform", then immediately follow with the information you need to convey. For example, "We regret to inform you that your application has been rejected."

Are there less formal alternatives to "regret to inform"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "I'm sorry to say", "Unfortunately", or "I'm afraid" depending on the context and your relationship with the recipient. It's important to match your language to the situation.

When is it appropriate to use "regret to inform"?

"Regret to inform" is most appropriate in formal settings, such as official letters, business communications, or announcements where a serious or disappointing message needs to be conveyed with respect.

What's the difference between "I am sorry to say" and "regret to inform"?

While both introduce bad news, "regret to inform" is more formal and often used in official communications. "I am sorry to say" is generally less formal and suitable for personal or less official contexts.