we regret

USAGE SUMMARY

"we regret" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express regret or apology, or to express sadness about something. For example: "We regret to inform you that your application has been declined."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

"We regret this now".

The New York Times

We regret the error.

Forbes

"We regret that".

The New York Times

"We regret this.

The New York Times

We regret the errors.

Forbes

We regret the oversight.

Forbes

We regret our mistake".

The New York Times

We regret it.

BBC

We regret both errors.

University of Chicago

We regret this oversight.

Duke University

We regret any inconvenience.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we regret", be specific about what you regret and, if possible, offer a solution or explanation to mitigate the negative impact. For example: "We regret the error and have taken steps to correct it."

Common error

Avoid using "we regret" as a generic statement without specifying the cause of the regret. Always clarify what you are regretting and, when appropriate, offer an explanation or solution. For example, instead of just saying "We regret", say "We regret the delay in shipping your order due to unforeseen circumstances".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we regret" primarily functions as a performative utterance, where stating the phrase enacts the expression of regret. Ludwig examples demonstrate this usage in formal apologies and acknowledgments of errors.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we regret" is a common and grammatically correct way to express remorse or disappointment, as affirmed by Ludwig. It's frequently used in news and media, academic writing, and formal business communications. While "we regret" is a versatile phrase, it's crucial to be specific about what you regret and, when possible, offer a solution or explanation. Alternatives such as "we apologize" or "we are sorry" can be used depending on the context. Remember, clarity and context are key to effectively conveying your message when using the phrase "we regret".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we apologize

A more formal expression of regret, often used in official statements.

we are sorry

A common and versatile expression of regret or sympathy.

we offer our apologies

A formal way of offering an apology.

we acknowledge the error

Emphasizes the recognition and acceptance of a mistake.

we take responsibility

Focuses on accepting accountability for a mistake.

we made a mistake

A direct and clear admission of error.

we are at fault

Expresses that the problem is because of us.

we take the blame

Indicates acceptance of culpability.

we are disappointed

Expresses sadness or dissatisfaction about a situation or outcome.

we are saddened

Focuses on the feeling of sorrow or unhappiness.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "we regret"?

You can use alternatives like "we apologize", "we are sorry", or "we acknowledge the error" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "we regret"?

Use "we regret" when you want to express sorrow or disappointment about a situation, or to formally apologize for a mistake or inconvenience. It's suitable for formal communications and announcements.

Is "we regret" formal or informal?

"We regret" is generally considered more formal than "we're sorry", making it suitable for business communications, official statements, or when addressing serious matters.

How to use "we regret" in a sentence?

You can use "we regret" followed by a noun phrase describing what you regret (e.g., "We regret the error") or by a 'that' clause explaining the situation (e.g., "We regret that the event has been canceled").