Definition

Adverb: 1. In a manner that expresses sorrow, disappointment, or a sense of loss about a situation; with regret. - This adverb describes how an action is performed—specifically, in a way that conveys a feeling of sadness or apology about what is being said or done. It is often used to soften the tone of a negative or disappointing statement.

Usage

The word "regretfully" is used to modify a verb, indicating that the action is accompanied by or performed with a feeling of regret. It is commonly employed in formal or polite contexts to express that a decision or action is taken with sincere disappointment.

Examples

• Adverb:
  • She regretfully informed the team that the project was canceled. (She delivered the disappointing news with a feeling of sorrow.)
  • "I must regretfully decline your generous offer," he said. (He expressed his refusal with polite apology.)
  • He looked at the old photograph regretfully, remembering better times. (He looked at it in a manner filled with sadness and longing.)

Advanced Usage

• Polite Formulae: "Regretfully" is standard in formal writing and speech to politely convey refusal or bad news.
  • Regretfully, we are unable to process your request at this time.
• Distinguishing from "Regrettably": While sometimes confused, "regretfully" describes an action done regret (a feeling). In contrast, "regrettably" describes a situation that regrettable (unfortunate).
  • Regretfully, I resigned. (I resigned, and I feel sad about it.)
  • Regrettably, I had to resign. (It is unfortunate that I had to resign.)

Variants and Related Words

• Regret (verb/noun): To feel sorrow or remorse about something; a feeling of sadness or disappointment.
  • Verb: I regret my decision.
  • Noun: He felt a deep sense of regret.
• Regrettable (adjective): Deserving regret; unfortunate.
  • The loss of the data was a regrettable error.
• Regrettably (adverb): Unfortunately; in a manner that is regrettable.
  • Regrettably, the event has been postponed.

Synonyms

• Sorrowfully: In a manner showing grief or sadness.
• Apologetically: In a manner expressing regret or saying sorry.
• With regret: Accompanied by a feeling of regret (a common phrase with similar meaning).

Antonyms

• Gladly: Willingly and with pleasure.
• Unrepentantly: Without regret or remorse.

Adverb

1. with regret (used in polite formulas)
   • I must regretfully decline your kind invitation