contrite
Say it: kun-TRYT /kənˈtraɪt/ · adjective
What “contrite” means
Feeling and showing that you are truly sorry for wrongdoing.
More precisely: Feeling and showing sincere sorrow for something wrong you've done.
Example: “A contrite text the next morning didn't fully repair the damage.”
When to use it
Use it when someone sincerely admits wrongdoing and shows sorrow. It sounds formal and means more than merely polite.
Similar words
apologetic, remorseful, penitent
Where it comes from
From Latin conterere, "to grind, crush."
Quick check
After lying to your friend, you admit it without excuses and sincerely apologise for the hurt. How do you seem?
contrite or defensive?
Show the answer
contrite
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