Synonyms for

Rue

Verb / ru: / Another word for rue — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to feel regret or remorse

Synonyms & similar words

herbofgrace ruefulness sorrow repent regret rutagraveolens regret repent lament bemoan mourn bewail deplore grieve sorrow remorse penitence contrition shame guilt compunction self-reproach self-condemnation self-blame misgiving qualm

Synonyms by register

Formal

regret lament deplore

Informal

kick oneself regret it wish one hadn't

Literary

bewail mourn

Antonyms

rejoice celebrate exult delight be glad be pleased

Common collocations

  • rue the day
  • rue the moment
  • rue the loss
  • rue the decision
  • rue the mistake
  • rue the past
  • rue the outcome

Word family

noun rue
verb rue

Usage note

Primarily used in the phrase 'rue the day' or 'rue the moment'. It carries a strong sense of deep regret or sorrow.

Example sentences

  1. She will rue the day she didn't listen to her parents.
  2. He rued his decision to drop out of school.
  3. I will rue the missed opportunity for the rest of my life.
  4. She rued not taking the job offer.
  5. He rued not studying harder for the test.

Quotes

  • I rue the day I was born.
  • I will rue the day I didn't follow my dreams.
  • One may regret a great many things, but to rue the past is to forfeit the future.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words