Definition

Adverb: * In a manner expressing deep regret or guilt for having done wrong: The word describes how someone acts or speaks when they feel genuinely sorry and remorseful for a mistake or offense.

Usage

"Contritely" is used to modify a verb (often a verb of speaking or acting) to show that an action is done with sincere penitence or remorse. It is a formal adverb, more common in written English than in everyday speech.

Examples

• He apologized contritely for forgetting the important meeting.
• "I should never have said that," she whispered contritely.
• The child looked up contritely after breaking the vase.

Advanced Usage

• Legal or Formal Apologies: Often used in contexts where a formal or deeply felt apology is required.
  • The defendant addressed the court contritely, expressing his regret for his actions.
• Literary or Descriptive Writing: Used to add depth to a character's emotional state.
  • He bowed his head contritely, unable to meet her gaze.

Variants and Related Words

• Contrite (adjective): Feeling or expressing remorse or penitence; affected by guilt.
  • He was genuinely contrite for his error.
• Contrition (noun): The state of feeling remorseful and penitent.
  • She showed deep contrition for her harsh words.

Synonyms

• Repentantly: In a manner showing sincere regret and a resolve to change.
• Penitently: In a manner expressing sorrow for sin or wrongdoing.
• Remorsefully: In a manner filled with deep regret or guilt.
• Ruefully: In a manner expressing sorrow or regret, often with a sense of wry or slightly ironic acceptance (as in the reference context).

Antonyms

• Defiantly: In a manner showing open resistance or bold disobedience.
• Unrepentantly: In a manner not feeling or showing regret for wrongdoing.

Adverb

1. in a rueful manner
   • `I made a big mistake,' he said ruefully