express regret about crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find the comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "express regret about". We aim to provide you with the exact answer you need, along with helpful context to improve your solving skills.
Solutions for "express regret about crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
RUE: To bitterly regret (something one has done or allowed to happen).
6 Letters
LAMENT: To express sorrow, regret, or unhappiness about something.
REPENT: To feel or express sincere regret or remorse about one's wrongdoing or sin.
7 Letters
DEPLORE: To feel or express strong disapproval of (something), often implying a sense of regret or sadness over its existence.
More About "express regret about crossword clue"
The concept of "expressing regret" is a rich one for crossword compilers, as it allows for a variety of synonyms and nuanced interpretations. Short, punchy words like 'RUE' are favourites due to their compact nature and direct meaning. These are often used when a puzzle requires a quick and unambiguous fit for a specific number of letters.
For longer answers, the clue expands into words that convey different shades of regret or disapproval. 'LAMENT' suggests a more vocal or outward expression of sorrow, often over a loss or misfortune. 'REPENT' carries a moral or ethical weight, implying remorse for one's own actions, while 'DEPLORE' expresses strong disapproval, often with a hint of sadness that something undesirable has occurred.
Understanding these subtle differences can be key to selecting the correct answer, especially when multiple words share a similar core meaning but differ in their precise application or emotional intensity. Always consider the length and any crossing letters when faced with such a clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always double-check the number of available squares. This is the primary filter for potential answers like 'RUE' (3 letters) vs. 'LAMENT' (6 letters).
- Consider Nuance: While words like 'rue' and 'deplore' both relate to regret, their exact meanings differ. 'Rue' is personal regret, while 'deplore' is strong disapproval, often of a situation. The clue's phrasing often hints at the nuance.
- Look at Crossings: If you're stuck between 'LAMENT' and 'REPENT', the letters from intersecting words will be your best guide to confirm the correct choice. Fill in known letters first.
- Think Common Crosswordese: Words like 'RUE' are very common in crosswords due to their short length and clear meaning. Familiarity with such 'crosswordese' terms can significantly speed up your solving time.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common short answer for 'express regret about' in crosswords?
The most common short answer for 'express regret about' in crosswords is 'RUE'. It is a concise three-letter word that directly conveys the meaning of feeling or expressing sorrow over something past.
Are there other words for 'express regret about' that appear in puzzles?
Yes, beyond 'RUE', other words like 'LAMENT' (to express sorrow or regret), 'REPENT' (to feel or express deep regret for past wrongdoings), and 'DEPLORE' (to feel or express strong disapproval of, often with a sense of regret) are frequently used as answers for similar clues, depending on the letter count.
How can I distinguish between 'LAMENT' and 'REPENT' for this clue?
Both 'LAMENT' and 'REPENT' are six letters long and involve expressing regret. 'LAMENT' typically implies expressing sorrow or grief about a situation or loss, while 'REPENT' more specifically refers to expressing remorse or contrition for one's own actions or sins. The surrounding letters or the nuance of the clue's context can help differentiate them.