this regrettable episode

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this regrettable episode" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an unfortunate event or situation that has occurred, often in a formal or serious context. Example: "In light of this regrettable episode, we must take steps to ensure it does not happen again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The BBC has since issued a statement: "Jeremy Clarkson has set out the background to this regrettable episode," the statement read.

Independent

The Navy owes it to Americans, and to Japanese friends and relatives of the victims, to establish full accountability for this regrettable episode.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"This case has been one regrettable episode after the next.

The Guardian

"This has been a wholly regrettable episode," he said.

BBC

That regrettable episode tumbled Duval into a tie for 11th place at seven under par.

The New York Times - Sports

An artist with no hands was refused a visa to enter Britain because he could not provide fingerprints, in what David Cameron said was a "deeply regrettable episode".

Independent

The Prime Minister, who has been leading a trade mission to Kazakhstan, said: "In terms of the artist, the disabled person you mention, that was clearly a deeply regrettable episode.

Independent

The "older-wiser" narrative also exempts Indian Wells's past managers from accountability for their role in a regrettable episode – not least Pasarell, whom the Williams family claims did not offer any real apology on behalf of the tournament.

The Guardian - Sport

Many, I suspect, are simply hoping that he will implode and that the whole horrible, regrettable episode will pass and a suitably shiny PR-friendly replacement will be found from among the caste.

The Guardian - Opinion

If Tavarez and Ramirez share any charm, it is in their ability to forget even the most regrettable episodes.

The New York Times - Sports

'How does he do that?', you wonder, as he describes how, 'after a while, marriage is a sibling relationship - marked by occasional, and rather regrettable, episodes of incest'.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this regrettable episode", ensure the context clearly identifies the specific event being referenced to avoid ambiguity. This phrase is often used in formal communication or official statements.

Common error

Avoid using "this regrettable episode" in casual conversations or informal writing. The phrase's formality can sound stilted or overly dramatic in such settings; opt for simpler, more natural language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this regrettable episode" functions as a noun phrase that serves as the subject or object of a sentence. It's used to refer to a specific event or situation viewed negatively. Ludwig indicates the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this regrettable episode" is a phrase used to acknowledge and express regret over an unfortunate event, with Ludwig confirming its grammatical correctness. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts, signifying a neutral yet somewhat formal tone. While grammatically sound, it's advisable to use the phrase judiciously, especially avoiding overuse in informal settings. Alternatives like "this unfortunate event" or "this lamentable incident" may be considered to vary expression while maintaining a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this unfortunate event

Replaces 'regrettable' with 'unfortunate', softening the tone slightly while retaining the same meaning.

this lamentable incident

Uses 'lamentable' for a more formal and sorrowful tone compared to 'regrettable'.

this unfortunate situation

Shifts from 'episode' to 'situation', focusing on the broader context rather than a specific event.

this regrettable matter

Replaces 'episode' with 'matter', making it applicable to a wider range of issues, not just events.

this unhappy chapter

Employs a more metaphorical term, 'chapter', to refer to the event, adding a sense of closure.

this distressing affair

Uses 'distressing' to highlight the emotional impact of the event.

this regrettable circumstance

Replaces 'episode' with 'circumstance', shifting the focus to the conditions surrounding the event.

this unfortunate occurrence

Uses 'occurrence' as a more neutral synonym for 'episode', suitable for factual reporting.

this regrettable development

Replaces 'episode' with 'development', which is suitable for something that unfolds over time.

this regrettable turn of events

Adds 'turn of events' to emphasize the unexpected and negative nature of what happened.

FAQs

What does "this regrettable episode" mean?

The phrase "this regrettable episode" refers to an unfortunate event or situation that is a source of regret or disappointment. It's often used in formal contexts to acknowledge an error, mistake, or negative occurrence.

What can I say instead of "this regrettable episode"?

You can use alternatives like "this unfortunate event", "this lamentable incident", or "this unfortunate situation" depending on the specific context.

Is "this regrettable episode" formal or informal?

"This regrettable episode" is considered a formal phrase. It's more appropriate for official statements, news reports, or professional communication rather than casual conversation.

How to use "this regrettable episode" in a sentence?

Use "this regrettable episode" to refer back to a specific incident or event that has already been described or is well-understood in context. For example: "Following "this regrettable episode", we will be implementing new safety protocols."