What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rue
Example
I rue the day I decided to quit my job. [rue: verb]
Example
He was filled with rue when he realized what he had done. [rue: noun]
lament
Example
The community came together to lament the loss of their beloved leader. [lament: verb]
Example
Her lament for her lost love was heard throughout the village. [lament: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lament is more commonly used than rue in everyday language. Lament is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while rue is less common and refers to a specific type of regret.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between rue and lament?
Rue is typically associated with a more formal tone, while lament is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.