# repentance

/ɹɪˈpɛntəns/ (US) · /ɹɪpˈɛntəns/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/repentance
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a feeling of being very sorry for doing something wrong. It usually includes a strong wish to change your behavior and do better in the future.

For teachers: sincere regret or remorse for past actions, typically accompanied by a commitment to personal change or restitution.

## Examples

- He showed true repentance for his mistakes.
- The judge considered the defendant's sincere expression of repentance when deciding on a lighter sentence.
- In many theological traditions, repentance is viewed not merely as a feeling of guilt, but as a fundamental turning away from previous moral failings toward a more ethical life.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by the preposition 'for' to indicate the specific action being regretted.

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