with much regret

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'with much regret' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express sorrow or regret about something. Example: With much regret, I must say goodbye to my beloved colleagues.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

It was with much regret that we trudged up the lane the next morning.

Independent

This decision was made with much regret, but the organization should have seen it coming.

The New York Times

Listening to Waters's onstage reminiscing, you get the sense that he isn't a man who looks back with much regret.

The Guardian - Books

But Bretherton's official brief was not to commit Britain to anything, and eventually he was simply asked to leave the meetings, which he did with much regret.

The Economist

Rob Hunt, the joint administrator, said: "It is with much regret that we have today made the difficult decision to close a large number of stores.

The Guardian - Money

Here is Mr. Pandit's e-mail on Mr. Calio's departure: Dear Colleagues, With much regret and a deep sense of gratitude, I announce today the departure of Nick Calio, executive vice president of global government affairs.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The placards -- thousands of them -- are displayed here with as much regret as respect, for Mr. Massoud, the Northern Alliance's legendary guerrilla commander, was assassinated on Sept. 9.

The New York Times

Parker posts this Schopenhauer quote: "We can come to look upon the deaths of our enemies with as much regret as we feel for those of our friends, namely, when we miss their existence as witnesses to our success".

Forbes

She emerges as no saint--a woman who looks back over her poor choices with as much regret as forgiveness--but as real.

Los Angeles Times

She refers to her past with affection but not much regret, and without a trace of reverence.

The New York Times - Magazine

When you're playing fetch with a dog, how much regret does he suffer when he gives you back the ball?

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure it's followed by a clear explanation of the reason for the regret to maintain transparency and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "with much regret" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler expressions like "I'm sorry" or "Unfortunately" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with much regret" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to express the manner in which an action is performed or a statement is made. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to convey sorrow or disappointment.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "with much regret" is a common and correct expression used to convey sorrow or disappointment, primarily in formal and professional contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, its function is to soften bad news or express empathy. It is often found in news reports, business communications, and official statements. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, it is important to reserve its use for situations where formality is appropriate, opting for simpler expressions in casual settings. Related phrases, such as "with deep regret" or "I regret to inform you", offer similar sentiments with slight variations in intensity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with deep regret

Emphasizes a profound sense of sorrow.

with great regret

Expresses a significant level of regret.

with sincere regret

Highlights the genuineness of the remorse.

to my great dismay

Shifts the focus to the speaker's disappointment.

to my disappointment

A simpler and more direct expression of disappointment.

i regret to inform you

A formal and direct way to deliver bad news.

i am sorry to announce

Expresses sorrow while making an announcement.

it is regrettable that

Focuses on the regrettable nature of a situation.

it's a matter of regret

Highlights the regretful aspect of the subject.

i'm saddened to say

Expresses sadness when delivering news.

FAQs

How can I use "with much regret" in a sentence?

The phrase "with much regret" is typically used at the beginning of a sentence to express sorrow or disappointment before delivering bad news or an unfavorable decision. For example: "With much regret, we must inform you that your application has been denied."

What are some alternatives to "with much regret"?

Alternatives include "with deep regret", "with great regret", or "I regret to inform you", depending on the level of formality and the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "with much regret"?

Use "with much regret" in formal or professional settings when conveying bad news, expressing disappointment, or acknowledging an unfortunate situation. It is especially useful when you want to show sincerity and empathy.

Is "with much regret" more formal than "I'm sorry"?

Yes, "with much regret" is considerably more formal than "I'm sorry". The former is appropriate for official announcements or professional correspondence, while the latter is suitable for everyday conversations.