What does regrettably mean?
Regrettably is an adverb meaning that a situation is unfortunate and causes regret or disappointment. It is commonly used to introduce bad news, explain an unfortunate outcome, or qualify a statement about a disappointing development: “Regrettably, the event had to be postponed.” Its tone is generally formal but not cold, and it communicates a restrained sense of sorrow rather than strong emotional reaction. The word is especially common in journalism, official announcements, institutional writing, and formal correspondence. Although it resembles the adjective regrettable, regrettably functions as an adverb modifying a verb, an adjective, or an entire clause. It is widely understood in British and American English and is often interchangeable with unfortunately, though it tends to place more emphasis on the emotional or moral dimension of the situation.
adverbUsed to say that a situation or outcome is regrettable, especially when expressing sorrow or disappointment about something unfortunate.
- In a way that causes regret or sorrow; unfortunately.
"Regrettably, the concert was cancelled because of the severe weather."
"Regrettably, the exhibition closed early because of flooding."
"The proposal was regrettably rejected without a full discussion."
Regrettably turns regret into a concise, formal signpost for disappointment: it tells readers that a situation is unfortunate without dwelling on the emotional details.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does regrettably come from?
The English word regret was borrowed from Old French regret, which in turn came from Latin regretum, a term associated with outcry or sorrow. The adjective regrettable was developed by adding the suffix -able to regret, expressing that something causes regret. The adverb regrettably was then formed from regrettable with the adverbial suffix -ly.
How regrettably is actually used
Common in formal and semi-formal writing, especially in news, reports, and statements of disappointment. It is often used at the beginning of a sentence before the clause describing the unfortunate situation.
Easily confused with regrettably
Regrettably is an adverb that describes an unfortunate outcome or circumstance, while regrettable is an adjective that describes a person, action, or event.