penitential

/,peni'tenʃəri/

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The word "penitential" is an adjective that describes a feeling or action related to penance, which means showing regret or sorrow for something wrong you have done. When someone is being penitential, they are often trying to make amends or apologize for their mistakes.

Easy Explanation:

• Penitential means feeling sorry for something wrong you did and wanting to make it better.
• For example, if you hurt someone's feelings, you might write a penitential letter to say you are sorry.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "penitential" to describe feelings or actions that involve regret, remorse, or the desire to atone for a mistake.
• It is often used in religious or moral contexts, but can also apply in everyday situations.

Example Sentences:

1. She felt penitential after realizing she had hurt her friend with her words.
2. The priest gave a penitential sermon, encouraging people to reflect on their mistakes.

Advanced Usage:

• In literature or religious texts, "penitential" can describe actions taken during a time of reflection or confession, such as penitential prayers or penitential acts.

Word Variants:

• Penitence (noun): The state of feeling sorry for your sins or wrongdoings.
• Penitent (adjective/noun): A person who feels regret for their sins; can also describe someone expressing this feeling.

Different Meanings:

While "penitential" primarily relates to feelings of regret, it can also refer to: - Penitential psalms: Specific prayers in the Bible that express sorrow for sin.

Synonyms:

• Remorseful
• Sorry
• Regretful
• Contrite

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly incorporate "penitential," but here are some related phrases: - "Eat humble pie": To apologize or admit you were wrong. - "Face the music": To accept the consequences of your actions, often after doing something wrong.

Summary:

"Penitential" is about feeling sorry and wanting to make things right after doing something wrong.

Academic

Adjective

1. showing or constituting penance
   • penitential tears
   • wrote a penitential letter apologizing for her hasty words

Synonyms

• penitentiary