bitter regret crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Searching for solutions to "bitter regret crossword clue"? You've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand the nuances of each term and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "bitter regret crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
RUE: To bitterly regret or feel remorse for (something). This short, impactful word is often seen in puzzles for 'regret' or 'repent'.
7 Letters
REMORSE: Deep regret or guilt for a wrong committed. A common answer when 'bitter regret' implies a strong sense of wrongdoing and self-reproach.
10 Letters
CONTRITION: The state of feeling remorseful and penitent. This longer answer fits clues hinting at a profound, often religious or formal, sense of regret and desire for atonement.
11 Letters
COMPUNCTION: A feeling of uneasiness or anxiety of the conscience caused by regret for doing wrong or causing pain; a slight regret. While often subtle, in a 'bitter' context, it can denote a deep gnawing guilt.
More About "bitter regret crossword clue"
"Bitter regret" is a powerful phrase that evokes a deep, often painful, sense of sorrow or guilt over past actions, decisions, or missed opportunities. In the world of crosswords, clues like this often demand answers that capture this intense emotional state, moving beyond simple 'regret' to words that imply a more profound or agonizing feeling.
The variety of answers for 'bitter regret' (from RUE to COMPUNCTION) highlights the richness of the English language in describing human emotions. Each word carries its own specific nuance, which can sometimes be hinted at by other words in the clue or by the overall theme of the puzzle. Understanding these subtleties is key to choosing the correct answer when multiple options seem possible.
For solvers, a 'bitter regret' clue is a strong indicator to look for terms associated with repentance, deep sorrow, or the painful realization of a mistake. Always consider the length of the required answer, as this will quickly eliminate many possibilities and guide you towards the perfect fit.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Always Check Letter Count: The first and most crucial step is to count the available spaces in the grid. This immediately narrows down the pool of potential answers significantly.
- Consider Synonyms and Nuances: For emotional clues like "bitter regret," think broadly about synonyms for sorrow, guilt, and remorse. Also, consider the intensity implied by words like 'bitter' – it often points to stronger emotions than just 'regret'.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These fixed letters are invaluable for confirming an answer or ruling out incorrect ones.
- Think About Word Origins: Sometimes, knowing a word's etymology can provide a subtle hint to its meaning or common usage in clues, particularly for more obscure terms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'bitter regret' imply in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'bitter regret' typically points to words that signify deep sorrow, remorse, or penitence over past actions or missed opportunities. The emphasis is on the intensity and often the lasting nature of the regret.
Are there common alternative phrases for 'bitter regret' in crosswords?
Yes, clues might use phrases like 'feel sorry for', 'deep remorse', 'penitence', 'rue the day', or simply 'regret' for shorter answers. The number of letters is key to narrowing down the possibilities.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like RUE and REMORSE?
The primary differentiator is the number of letters required for the answer. RUE is a short (3-letter) word for regret, often used when the clue is concise. REMORSE (7 letters) implies a more profound and often prolonged feeling of guilt or sorrow. Always check the intersecting letters from other clues to confirm.