regrettable

or re·gret·a·ble

[ ri-gret-uh-buhl ]

adjective

1. causing or deserving regret; unfortunate; deplorable.

Other Words From

• re·gret·ta·ble·ness noun
• re·gret·ta·bly adverb
• un·re·gret·ta·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of regrettable¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; from Middle French regret(t)able; regret, -able

Example Sentences

Mr Amesbury confirmed he had been told to appear in court after the "deeply regrettable" incident.

From BBC

Diving Australia said the sport's Commonwealth heritage made the decision "even more regrettable".

From BBC

Berry’s response summed up this incident well, “It’s regrettable that I, as I sit here, have experienced the very issue that we’re attempting to deal with today.”

From Salon

“While I recognise the challenges in reaching certain groups of victims, this is regrettable and must be addressed.”

From BBC

I talked about my regrettable three-year relationship with a man who was a prolific liar when it came to other women and was completely devoid of emotional support when it mattered most.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• calamitous
• deplorable
• dire
• disappointing
• distressing
• dreadful
• grievous
• heartbreaking
• lamentable
• sad
• shameful