Definition

1. Verb (Transitive):
   • To feel or express strong disapproval of; to condemn: To regard something as deeply regrettable, unfortunate, or wrong, often from a moral standpoint.
   • To regret deeply; to lament: To feel or express profound sorrow, grief, or disappointment about something.

Usage and Examples

• Expressing strong disapproval or condemnation:

  • Human rights organizations deplore the use of violence against peaceful protesters.
  • The teacher deplored the students' lack of respect for the classroom rules.

• Expressing deep regret or sorrow:

  • I deplore the fact that our friendship ended over such a trivial matter.
  • Historians deplore the destruction of the ancient library.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• Formal Register: "Deplore" is typically used in formal, written, or serious contexts, such as political statements, official reports, or academic writing. It conveys a strong, often public, expression of disapproval or regret.
• Object Types: The object of "deplore" is often an abstract concept, situation, or action (e.g., , , ), rather than a direct personal feeling.
  • The committee's report deplores the widespread corruption.
• "Deplore that..." construction: Used to introduce a clause stating the regrettable fact.
  • We deplore that such injustices continue to occur.

Variants and Related Words

• Deplorable (Adjective): Deserving strong condemnation; shockingly bad.
  • The prisoners were kept in deplorable conditions.
• Deplorably (Adverb): In a deplorable manner.
  • The system has failed deplorably.

Synonyms

• Condemn: To express complete disapproval, typically in public.
• Lament: To express passionate grief or regret about something.
• Bemoan: To express discontent or sorrow over (a situation).
• Censure: To express severe disapproval, often officially.

Antonyms

• Applaud: To show approval or praise, especially by clapping.
• Commend: To praise formally or officially.
• Approve: To have a favorable opinion of; to accept as satisfactory.

Related Phrases and Constructions

• "Deplore the fact that...": A common phrase used to formally introduce a statement of regret.
  • The ambassador deplored the fact that diplomatic channels had been ignored.
• "Deeply deplore": An intensifying phrase emphasizing the strength of the feeling.
  • The community deeply deplores the act of vandalism.

Verb

1. regret strongly
   • I deplore this hostile action
   • we lamented the loss of benefits
2. express strong disapproval of
   • We deplore the government's treatment of political prisoners