REMORSE Synonyms: 37 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'remorse' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of remorse are compunction , contrition , penitence , and repentance . While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," remorse suggests prolonged and insistent self-reproach and mental anguish for past wrongs and especially for those whose consequences cannot be remedied. // thieves untroubled by feelings of remorse

Q: When is 'compunction' a more appropriate choice than 'remorse'?

While in some cases nearly identical to remorse , compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing. // had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

Q: When is it sensible to use 'contrition' instead of 'remorse'?

The words contrition and remorse are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence. // tearful expressions of contrition

Q: When would 'penitence' be a good substitute for 'remorse'?

The synonyms penitence and remorse are sometimes interchangeable, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds. // absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

Q: When might 'repentance' be a better fit than 'remorse'?

The words repentance and remorse can be used in similar contexts, but repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change. // repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

remorse

noun

ri-ˈmȯrs

Definition of remorse next

as in guilt

a feeling of responsibility for wrongdoing he felt a deep remorse for having neglected his family over the years

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How is the word remorse distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of remorse are compunction, contrition, penitence, and repentance. While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," remorse suggests prolonged and insistent self-reproach and mental anguish for past wrongs and especially for those whose consequences cannot be remedied.

thieves untroubled by feelings of remorse

When is compunction a more appropriate choice than remorse?

While in some cases nearly identical to remorse, compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

When is it sensible to use contrition instead of remorse?

The words contrition and remorse are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

When would penitence be a good substitute for remorse?

The synonyms penitence and remorse are sometimes interchangeable, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

When might repentance be a better fit than remorse?

The words repentance and remorse can be used in similar contexts, but repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of remorse According to court documents, Raine was visibly upset during the police interview and expressed his remorse for the crash. —

Ryan Murphy, The Indianapolis Star, 17 Oct. 2024 For all the luxury and label-loving tastemakers out there, prepare to get excited to shop without the guilt and buyer’s remorse because premium department store Saks Fifth Avenue is offering discounts as high as 60 percent off your order. —

Maya Gandara, StyleCaster, 9 Oct. 2024 However, prosecutors argued in court on Monday that Johnston showed a lack of remorse over his actions as a photo was shared of him allegedly dressed as Jan. 6 rioter Jacob 'QAnon Shaman’ Chansley at a Halloween party in 2023, per NBC News. —

Escher Walcott, People.com, 29 Oct. 2024 There was no immediate remorse or even an attempt to pull back on the force of the strike. —

Brian Mazique, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for remorse

Recent Examples of Synonyms for remorse

Noun

This sense of exclusion can spark feelings of guilt or frustration, especially when your friend experiences significant life moments without your immediate involvement.

Mark Travers, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
She’s always experienced guilt at leaving her gender non-conforming brother behind with her abusive mom, especially after being told that Orville has died.

Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 20 Nov. 2024