regrettably correct

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "regrettably correct" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when acknowledging that something is accurate but undesirable or unfortunate. Example: "The results of the experiment were regrettably correct, confirming our worst fears about the project's viability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Regrettably that is correct," said Jabbour.

The Guardian

What passes for acceptable corporate leadership has regrettably become a watered down, commoditized, politically correct version of the real thing.

Forbes

Regrettably not.

The Economist

Regrettably high.

The Guardian

Unforgettable, regrettably.

The New York Times

Regrettably, the opposite happened.

The Economist

Regrettably, the latter.

Independent

Regrettably, I can't".

The New York Times

But regrettably I have.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Regrettably, I cannot".

The New York Times - Tech

Regrettably, they are not.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing this phrase, ensure that the context clearly indicates why the correctness is regrettable. This could be due to negative consequences, ethical concerns, or other undesirable implications.

Common error

Avoid using "regrettably correct" in situations where there is no reason for regret or disappointment. This phrase is specifically for instances where the accuracy of something is unwelcome or unfortunate. If the correctness is neutral or positive, a different phrasing should be chosen.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "regrettably correct" functions as an adverbially modified adjective. The adverb "regrettably" modifies the adjective "correct", adding a layer of meaning indicating that the accuracy is unwelcome or unfortunate. Ludwig confirms this usage through real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "regrettably correct" is used to acknowledge the accuracy of something while expressing disappointment or regret. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's infrequent but valid usage, primarily in News & Media contexts. When writing, use "regrettably correct" when you need to convey that the truth is unwelcome. Alternatives include "unfortunately accurate" or "sadly true", offering similar sentiments. The usage guidance emphasizes avoiding the phrase in neutral situations, ensuring its appropriate application in contexts where the accuracy is indeed regrettable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unfortunately accurate

Replaces "regrettably" with "unfortunately", maintaining the sense of accuracy tinged with negativity.

sadly true

Substitutes both words to express the statement's validity is a cause for sadness.

correct, but unfortunate

Inverts the structure, placing emphasis on the unfortunate aspect of the correctness.

accurately regrettable

Reverses the order and inverts the words. It emphasizes that something has been measured as regrettable

lamentably accurate

Uses "lamentably" to express sorrow or regret about the accuracy.

deplorably accurate

Uses "deplorably" to express strong disapproval or condemnation of the accuracy.

regrettably, that's the case

Adds a phrase to indicate the given content is, unfortunately, happening.

it's regrettably so

A more concise and emphatic way to express the unfortunate truth.

true, but regrettable

Similar to "correct, but unfortunate", but using "true" for accuracy.

accurate, to my dismay

Expresses accuracy along with personal disappointment or distress.

FAQs

How can I use "regrettably correct" in a sentence?

Use "regrettably correct" when you want to acknowledge that something is accurate, but also express that it's unfortunate or undesirable. For example: "The assessment of the damage was "regrettably correct", confirming the severity of the situation."

What are some alternatives to "regrettably correct"?

You can use alternatives like "unfortunately accurate", "sadly true", or "correct but unfortunate" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "regrettably correct" in formal writing?

Yes, "regrettably correct" is suitable for formal writing when the context involves acknowledging an unfortunate truth. However, consider the tone and whether a more neutral phrasing might be more appropriate.

What does "regrettably correct" imply beyond simple accuracy?

Beyond simply stating that something is accurate, "regrettably correct" implies a sense of disappointment, concern, or sorrow about the accuracy. It suggests that the truth is unwelcome or has negative implications.