Remorseful - English Definition & Meaning

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Definition

Being remorseful means feeling deep regret and guilt for one's past actions or wrongdoings. It's a profound sense of sorrow and repentance for causing harm or making mistakes 😔. A remorseful person wishes they could undo their actions and alleviate the pain they've caused. Think of it as carrying a heavy burden of regret and seeking to make amends 🥺. It indicates a sincere desire to change one's behavior and avoid repeating past errors. Unlike those who are indifferent, a remorseful individual is deeply affected by their actions.

Etymology

The word 'remorseful' is derived from the Old French word 'remors,' meaning 'bitterness' or 'regret.' It is combined with the suffix '-ful,' indicating a state of being full of remorse. 'Remorseful' describes the state of feeling deep regret and guilt for past actions, often leading to a desire for forgiveness and reconciliation.

Related Words

Examples

  • "The remorseful driver apologized for causing the accident."
  • "The remorseful bully vowed to change his ways."
  • "The politician issued a remorseful statement, acknowledging his past errors."
  • "She wrote a remorseful letter to her ex-friend, expressing her deep regret."

Anecdote / Story

Think of Jaime Lannister in 'Game of Thrones' after losing his hand. This event triggers deep self-reflection, and he begins to show signs of being remorseful for his past actions. He acknowledges the harm he's caused and strives to become a better person, even though his journey is filled with challenges. He feels a significant change in his attitude to his actions and his family, and attempts to seek change. This makes him more remorseful than he had been before.

Encouragement

Acknowledging your mistakes and feeling remorseful is a sign of emotional intelligence! 🧠 It shows that you're capable of empathy and self-reflection. Don't be afraid to confront your past and learn from it. Your vulnerability will inspire others to do the same. ✨

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