Regret Meaning

UK /rɪˈɡrɛt/
US /rɪˈɡrɛt/
Word Definition
regret meaning

Regret Definition & Usage

verb

To feel sorrow, remorse, or disappointment over an action, decision, or situation.

Examples

  • "I regret not taking the job opportunity when I had the chance."
  • "She regretted speaking too harshly to her friend the night before."
  • "He regrets not spending more time with his family before moving abroad."
  • "After the argument, I really regretted raising my voice."
  • "The company regretted not investing in better technology earlier."
noun

A strong feeling of sorrow or disappointment about something that has happened or an action that has been taken.

Examples

  • "He expressed regret for not attending his friend's wedding."
  • "The decision was made in haste, and now they were filled with regret."
  • "Regret flooded her heart when she saw how her actions had affected others."
  • "The mistake led to a deep regret that stayed with him for years."
  • "His biggest regret was not pursuing his dream career when he had the chance."

Cultural Context

Regret is a universal emotion that transcends cultural boundaries. It often arises from the realization that an action or decision has led to a negative outcome. In many cultures, regret is seen as an important part of personal growth, as individuals learn from their mistakes and make efforts to avoid repeating them in the future.

The Road Not Taken

Story

The Road Not Taken

Lisa sat in the dimly lit coffee shop, the cup of tea before her barely touched. She stared at the empty street outside, her mind replaying the moment when she had turned down the job offer two years ago. It had seemed like the right decision then—staying close to family, pursuing a quieter life. But now, as she glanced at her old friend's social media posts, showing off her career in a prestigious company, Lisa felt the sting of regret. The road she had chosen felt like a narrow one, without the adventure or success she had once imagined. 'I wish I'd taken the job,' she whispered to herself. It was a thought that had crossed her mind on more than one occasion, but today it felt louder than ever. She had chosen comfort, and in doing so, she'd given up on a dream. Lisa’s thoughts were interrupted by her phone buzzing on the table. It was a message from her mother. 'Remember, even regrets can teach us something.' Lisa smiled softly. She knew her mother was right. The regret she felt was a part of her journey, a reminder that her choices were hers to make, for better or worse. Despite the regret she felt, Lisa knew she couldn't go back. She'd made her decisions, and now it was time to move forward, learning from them instead of dwelling on what could have been.

The Road Not Taken