regret

verb B2 Neutral

Meaning

To regret means to feel sad or disappointed about something that has happened or something you have done, often wishing you had made a different choice.

💡 A common mistake is using "regret" with a gerund instead of an infinitive (e.g., "I regret to inform you" is correct, while "I regret informing you" is less formal).

Example Sentences

Do you regret not taking the job offer last year ?

I regret not studying harder for the final exam .

I regret not submitting the report before the deadline .

I regret not telling you the truth earlier .

Word in Context

I arrived at the bus station early but I forgot my umbrella at home , and I regret not checking the weather before I left . A light rain started while I was waiting , and my coat became damp so I felt uncomfortable . I called my friend to say I might be late for our lunch and she kindly offered a spare umbrella . By the time she reached me the rain had stopped , so we sat under the shelter and talked . I decided to check the forecast and pack more carefully next time to avoid the same mistake .

Common Phrases

deeply regret regretfully acknowledge express regret

Synonyms

Related Words

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