Definition

Noun: 1. A feeling of deep regret or guilt for a wrong committed: A painful emotional state arising from the consciousness of having done something morally wrong, hurtful, or shameful. It involves self-reproach and a wish that one had acted differently. 2. (Archaic/Literary) Compassion or pity: A feeling of sorrow or pity for someone else's suffering.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Primary Meaning):

  • He was filled with remorse after lying to his friend.
  • She showed no sign of remorse for her actions.
  • The criminal's genuine remorse was considered during sentencing.

• Noun (Archaic/Literary Meaning):

  • (Less common) He looked upon the prisoners with remorse.

Advanced Usage

• "To be seized/struck with remorse": To be suddenly overcome by a strong feeling of regret.
  • Upon seeing the damage he had caused, he was struck with remorse.
• "Pangs/twinges of remorse": Sudden, sharp feelings of guilt.
  • Even years later, she felt pangs of remorse for her harsh words.
• "Remorseless" (Adjective): Without remorse; merciless, pitiless.
  • The remorseless killer showed no emotion.

Variants and Related Words

• Remorseful (adj.): Feeling or expressing remorse.
  • He gave a remorseful apology.
• Remorselessly (adv.): In a way that shows no remorse.
  • The dictator pursued his goals remorselessly.

Synonyms

• Contrition: Sincere penitence or regret.
• Repentance: The action of repenting; sincere regret or remorse.
• Guilt: The fact of having committed a specified or implied offense; a feeling of remorse.
• Compunction: A feeling of guilt or moral scruple that follows a misdeed.
• Penitence: The action of feeling or showing sorrow and regret for having done wrong.

Antonyms

• Indifference: Lack of interest, concern, or sympathy.
• Impenitence: The state of not feeling remorse or regret.
• Ruthlessness: The quality of having no pity or compassion.

Idioms and Phrases

• "No remorse": Used to describe someone who does not feel sorry for their actions.
  • The defendant was found guilty and showed no remorse.
• "A matter of remorse": Something that causes or is a subject for remorse.
  • His failure to help his family is a matter of deep remorse for him.

Noun

1. a feeling of deep regret (usually for some misdeed)