we greatly regret

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we greatly regret" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express a strong sense of remorse or disappointment about a situation or action. Example: "We greatly regret any inconvenience this may have caused to our valued customers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Then they released a new one that said, "We greatly regret this conduct occurred".

The New Yorker

"Our focus is principally on you and your families…We greatly regret each loss of life.

The New Yorker

Its judgment said: "We greatly regret that the case was ever brought.

Independent

Graeme Leach, director of policy at the Institute of Directors, said: "We greatly regret the Government's decision to abolish the DRA.

Independent

We greatly regret this error and we apologize to all Mac users, both for releasing with this vulnerability and for the concern it has caused.

TechCrunch

We greatly regret making this error and have comprehensively reviewed all supplementary information as well as the main manuscript, finding no further errors.

eLife

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"Along with many other things in TNK-BP, I greatly regret we that we are losing Jim," said TNK-BP Chief Executive Robert Dudley, who left Russia two weeks ago citing harassment from Russian interests.

Forbes

"I greatly regret that this cannot happen in Brooklyn Bridge Park, but I am confident that we will find a new home for the field house in the very near future".

The New York Times

He said: "I greatly regret the UKJFF's decision to leave the Tricycle cinema.

The Guardian

"I greatly regret the tragic consequences of my action," he said.

The Guardian

"Shutting off the prisons from the federal courts is something that the nation is going to greatly regret," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we greatly regret", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being regretted. Be specific about the action or situation to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "we greatly regret" is appropriate in formal settings, avoid using it in casual conversations. Simpler expressions like "we're sorry" might be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "we greatly regret" is to act as a declarative statement expressing remorse or disappointment. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is used to formally convey a strong sense of regret.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we greatly regret" is a grammatically sound and usable expression in formal English. As Ludwig AI shows, it serves to convey a strong sense of remorse or disappointment, most frequently found in news and media and scientific contexts. It is best suited for professional or official communications. Alternatives include "we sincerely apologize" or "we deeply regret". When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what is being regretted and reserve it for situations where a formal tone is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we deeply regret

Emphasizes the profoundness of the regret.

we express our sincere regret

A more formal way to convey regret.

we are truly sorry for this

Emphasizes the genuine nature of the apology.

we sincerely apologize

Offers a direct and earnest apology, emphasizing sincerity.

we offer our apologies

A formal and direct way to express regret.

we take full responsibility and apologize

Combines acknowledgement of fault with a direct apology.

we are extremely sorry

A straightforward expression of sorrow with a slightly less formal tone.

we are saddened by this

Highlights the feeling of sadness caused by an event or situation.

we lament this situation

Expresses sorrow or grief about a situation, often implying a sense of loss.

we are disappointed

Conveys a feeling of dissatisfaction, often used when expectations have not been met.

FAQs

What does "we greatly regret" mean?

The phrase "we greatly regret" signifies a strong sense of disappointment or remorse about something that has happened. It is a formal way of expressing an apology or conveying sorrow.

When is it appropriate to use "we greatly regret"?

Use "we greatly regret" in formal communications, such as official statements, business correspondence, or public apologies, where you want to express a serious and profound sense of regret.

What can I say instead of "we greatly regret"?

You can use alternatives like "we sincerely apologize", "we deeply regret", or "we are extremely sorry" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "we regret" and "we greatly regret"?

Yes, "we greatly regret" intensifies the feeling of regret compared to simply saying "we regret". The addition of "greatly" emphasizes the depth and sincerity of the remorse.