true regret

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "true regret" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a deep, genuine feeling of remorse or sorrow for something that has happened. Example: "After reflecting on my actions, I felt a true regret for the pain I caused my friend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

We left this splendid and hospitable new land with true regret.

The New Yorker

It is with true regret that the audience hears about the character's move toward retirement.

The New York Times

Yet the ending, which contrives a meeting between the near-lovers in middle age, feels touched by true regret.

The New Yorker

It is with true regret that I announce that Isabella Eatery at Tysons Galleria will cease operations today.

The Washington Post

As an expression of repentance, of true regret or remorse, this step matters more than all the rest when you make a sincere apology.

University of California, Berkeley

And although he occasionally misses the pizza and the liveliness of Brooklyn, he confided that his only true regret was the dearth of worthy basketball opponents.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

What I really want to know, are the true regrets people have at the end of their lives.

Huffington Post

While this is true, we regret to announce that we have now declared your candidacy dead, and we fully expect the voters will soon reflect this top-level decision.

Huffington Post

"There is absolutely no true regret, remorse or repentance," the judge said.

The New York Times

Could any animal feel true pangs of regret?

The New York Times - Science

True, sometimes we regret our decisions; our choices can turn out to be disappointing.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "true regret" to emphasize the depth and sincerity of your remorse, especially when apologizing or acknowledging a mistake. It conveys a stronger emotion than simply saying 'regret'.

Common error

Avoid using "true regret" in overly casual settings; it can sound melodramatic or insincere. Opt for simpler expressions like "I'm sorry" or "I regret that" for everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "true regret" functions as a noun phrase where "true" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "regret". This combination intensifies the feeling of regret, emphasizing its sincerity and depth. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "true regret" is a noun phrase used to express a deep and genuine feeling of remorse. While grammatically correct, Ludwig AI confirms, it’s more appropriate for formal or serious contexts where emphasizing the sincerity of the regret is important. It's frequently found in News & Media sources but less common in everyday conversation or informal writing. Alternatives like "genuine remorse" or "sincere apology" can be considered depending on the specific context. Using "true regret" thoughtfully will enhance the impact of your message when conveying heartfelt remorse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuine remorse

Emphasizes the authenticity and depth of sorrow, similar to "true regret" but focusing on moral failing.

genuine sorrow

Very similar to "true regret", focusing on the authenticity of the sadness.

deepest regrets

Highlights the most profound and significant regrets one may hold.

sincere apology

Focuses on expressing regret through an apology, highlighting the act of seeking forgiveness.

pangs of remorse

Focuses on the sharp, sudden feelings of guilt or regret.

deep sorrow

Conveys profound sadness, which can stem from regret but is broader in scope.

heartfelt contrition

Highlights the feeling of being penitent or remorseful.

profound disappointment

Focuses on the feeling of being let down, which can be a consequence of regret.

bitter disappointment

Adds an element of resentment or anger to the disappointment, making it more intense.

aching heart

This is a more poetic expression for a deep sadness or sorrow.

FAQs

What does "true regret" mean?

The phrase "true regret" indicates a deep, genuine feeling of sorrow or remorse for something one has done or failed to do. It emphasizes the sincerity and intensity of the feeling.

How can I express "true regret"?

You can express "true regret" through sincere apologies, changed behavior, and making amends for any harm caused. Verbally, you might use phrases like "I genuinely regret..." or "I feel a profound sense of regret..."

Are there alternatives to "true regret"?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "genuine remorse", "sincere apology", or "deepest regrets" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "true regret"?

It's appropriate to use "true regret" when you want to convey a strong and genuine sense of remorse, especially in formal or serious contexts. Avoid using it in trivial situations.