Remorse Meaning and Definition
Remorse
Pronunciation
/ˈrɛmɔrs/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A feeling of deep regret or guilt for a wrong committed, often accompanied by a desire to make amends.
Examples
- The criminal felt immense remorse for his actions after serving time in prison.
- The whistleblower’s remorse was evident as he testified against the corporation.
- Remorse can be a heavy burden to carry, but seeking forgiveness can help to alleviate it.
- The athlete felt remorse for his unfair behavior towards his teammates.
- Remorse can be a catalyst for personal growth and positive change.
Synonyms
- Regret
- Guilt
- Penitence
Antonyms
- Deceit
- Malice
Additional Information
Remorse can be a complex and nuanced emotion, often influenced by factors such as personal values, emotional state, and societal expectations. Effective coping strategies for remorse may include seeking forgiveness, making amends, or engaging in self-reflection and personal growth.
In some cases, remorse can be a transformative experience, leading to positive changes in behavior and a renewed commitment to personal and moral values.
Etymology
The word “remorse” originates from the Latin “remorsus”, meaning “grief” or “regret”. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century to describe a deep sense of regret or guilt.
Usage Notes
Remorse is typically used to describe a state of mind or emotional experience, rather than a specific action or behavior. It is often used in a variety of contexts, including personal relationships, professional settings, and literary works.
Cultural References
Remorse has been explored in various forms of literature and media, including Shakespeare’s Hamlet, where the titular character struggles with feelings of remorse for his father’s murder.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
(“Eat crow” or “Have to eat crow”) – to feel ashamed or remorseful for one’s actions.
Related Words or Phrases
Guilt, regret, penitence, repentance
Collocations
Feeling remorse, filled with remorse, consumed by remorse
Frequency of Use
According to Google Ngram Viewer, the frequency of the word “remorse” in written English has remained relatively consistent over the past 200 years, with a slight increase in usage in recent decades.
Common Misspellings
remours, rembrs, reemorse