REPENTANCE Synonyms: 37 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'repentance' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of repentance are compunction , contrition , penitence , and remorse . While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change. // repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

Q: When could 'compunction' be used to replace 'repentance'?

In some situations, the words compunction and repentance are roughly equivalent. However, compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing. // had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

Q: When is it sensible to use 'contrition' instead of 'repentance'?

The words contrition and repentance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence. // tearful expressions of contrition

Q: When is 'penitence' a more appropriate choice than 'repentance'?

The words penitence and repentance can be used in similar contexts, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds. // absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

Q: When can 'remorse' be used instead of 'repentance'?

Although the words remorse and repentance have much in common, remorse suggests prolonged and insistent self-reproach and mental anguish for past wrongs and especially for those whose consequences cannot be remedied. // thieves untroubled by feelings of remorse

repentance

noun

ri-ˈpen-tᵊn(t)s

Definition of repentance next

as in remorse

a feeling of responsibility for wrongdoing preached that repentance was the first step on the path of redemption

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How is the word repentance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of repentance are compunction, contrition, penitence, and remorse. While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

When could compunction be used to replace repentance?

In some situations, the words compunction and repentance are roughly equivalent. However, compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

When is it sensible to use contrition instead of repentance?

The words contrition and repentance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

When is penitence a more appropriate choice than repentance?

The words penitence and repentance can be used in similar contexts, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

When can remorse be used instead of repentance?

Although the words remorse and repentance have much in common, remorse suggests prolonged and insistent self-reproach and mental anguish for past wrongs and especially for those whose consequences cannot be remedied.

thieves untroubled by feelings of remorse

Examples of repentance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In their wartime speeches, both Putin and Patriarch Kirill, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, have embraced the language of martyrdom, of purifying sacrifice, and of repentance—all for the sake of winning the war. —

Dmitry Adamsky, Foreign Affairs, 19 May 2023 That visit genuinely happened (the devout Chisholm believed in forgiveness…and repentance), but Ridley hits a wrong note by staging the encounter as if the two were old college chums. —

Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 16 Mar. 2024 The Jewish holiday, which begins this year on the evening of Sept. 24, is considered the holiest day of the year — a time of deep introspection, fasting and repentance, which Jews have traditionally honored by spending the day in synagogue in a collective act of prayer, meditation and atonement. —

Deborah Netburn, Los Angeles Times, 13 Sep. 2023 The survivors' forgiveness and the perpetrators' repentance showcased the true meaning of strength and redemption, demonstrating the human spirit's capacity for forgiveness and renewal. —

The Sorenson Impact Institute, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for repentance

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'repentance.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.