very regrettable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very regrettable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong sense of disappointment or sorrow about a situation or event. Example: "The cancellation of the event was very regrettable, as many people were looking forward to it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He called the loss "very regrettable".

The New York Times

This is very regrettable," Barnas said.

The Guardian

"I find it very regrettable that it's come to this".

The New Yorker

"It is very regrettable to hear this," he added.

The New York Times

"It's very regrettable that it's come to this.

Independent

"It is very regrettable indeed and I apologize".

The New York Times

Finance Minister Masajuro Shiokawa called Moody's downgrade "very regrettable".

The New York Times

"I find it all very regrettable, to say the least".

The New York Times - Science

Already the prime minister, Ryutaro Hashimoto, has called the FMC's decision "very regrettable".

The Economist

It also offered an uncharacteristic show of remorse, calling the civilian deaths "very regrettable".

The New York Times

"We consider the North Korean decision very regrettable," Mr. Kim said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very regrettable" to express a formal sense of disappointment or disapproval, especially in professional or public contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "very regrettable" in informal settings, where it might sound overly stiff. Opt for more casual alternatives like "too bad" or "a shame".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very regrettable" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a situation, event, or decision. Ludwig AI confirms that it expresses a strong sense of disappointment, sorrow, or disapproval.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very regrettable" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express disappointment or disapproval. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts and carries a neutral to formal tone. When writing, use "very regrettable" to formally express your disappointment, but avoid it in casual settings. Alternatives include "deeply unfortunate" or "highly disappointing". However, always consider your audience and the level of formality required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deeply unfortunate

Emphasizes the unfortunate nature of the situation, rather than the feeling of regret.

highly unfortunate

Similar to "deeply unfortunate", highlighting the bad luck aspect.

extremely disappointing

Focuses on the disappointment caused by the situation.

most unfortunate

A more formal way to express that something is unlucky or regrettable.

utterly unacceptable

Indicates a strong level of disapproval and rejection.

deeply disappointing

Shares the same degree of intensity but referring to the disappointment caused by something.

highly lamentable

A more formal and less common expression of regret or sorrow.

extremely unwelcome

Highlights that something is unwanted and undesirable.

thoroughly reprehensible

Conveys a strong sense of moral condemnation.

quite unfortunate

Similar to "highly unfortunate" but slightly less intense.

FAQs

How can I use "very regrettable" in a sentence?

You can use "very regrettable" to express disappointment or sorrow about a situation. For example: "It is "very regrettable" that the meeting was canceled".

What are some alternatives to "very regrettable"?

Some alternatives include "deeply unfortunate", "highly disappointing", or "utterly unacceptable", depending on the context.

Is "very regrettable" too formal for everyday conversation?

"Very regrettable" is more suited for formal settings. In casual conversation, phrases like "too bad" or "that's a shame" might be more appropriate.

Which is correct, "very regrettable" or "highly regrettable"?

Both "very regrettable" and "highly regrettable" are correct, but "very regrettable" is somewhat more common.