Definitions and Examples of mourn, lament, regret
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To feel or express deep sorrow or grief, especially over someone's death.
Example
The family gathered to mourn the loss of their beloved grandmother.
To express sorrow, regret, or disappointment about something.
Example
She lamented the fact that she had not pursued her dream of becoming a doctor.
To feel sad, repentant, or disappointed about something that has happened or been done.
Example
He regretted not studying harder for his exams.
Key Differences: mourn vs lament vs regret
- 1Mourn is used specifically to describe the feeling of sadness and grief that comes with the loss of someone or something.
- 2Lament is used to express a sense of disappointment or regret about something that has happened or a missed opportunity.
- 3Regret is used to describe a feeling of disappointment or remorse about something that has already happened or been done.
Effective Usage of mourn, lament, regret
- 1Express Condolences: Use mourn to express condolences and sympathy.
- 2Express Disappointment: Use lament to express disappointment or regret about something that has happened or a missed opportunity.
- 3Express Remorse: Use regret to express remorse or disappointment about something that has already happened or been done.
Remember this!
The antonyms of exuberate convey a sense of sadness, sorrow, or remorse. Mourn is used specifically to describe the feeling of sadness and grief that comes with the loss of someone or something, lament is used to express a sense of disappointment or regret about something that has happened or a missed opportunity, and regret is used to describe a feeling of disappointment or remorse about something that has already happened or been done. Use these words to express condolences, disappointment, and remorse effectively.
