CONTRITION Synonyms: 37 Similar and Opposite Words

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

Some common synonyms of contrition are compunction , penitence , remorse , and repentance . While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence. // tearful expressions of contrition

Q: When might 'compunction' be a better fit than 'contrition'?

The synonyms compunction and contrition are sometimes interchangeable, but compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing. // had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

Q: When would 'penitence' be a good substitute for 'contrition'?

The meanings of penitence and contrition largely overlap; however, penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds. // absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

Q: When is 'remorse' a more appropriate choice than 'contrition'?

The words remorse and contrition can be used in similar contexts, but 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

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

In some situations, the words repentance and contrition are roughly equivalent. However, repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change. // repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

contrition

noun

kən-ˈtri-shən

Definition of contrition next

as in remorse

a feeling of responsibility for wrongdoing we were moved to forgive by his tearful expressions of contrition

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How is the word contrition distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of contrition are compunction, penitence, remorse, and repentance. While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

When might compunction be a better fit than contrition?

The synonyms compunction and contrition are sometimes interchangeable, but compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

When would penitence be a good substitute for contrition?

The meanings of penitence and contrition largely overlap; however, penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

When is remorse a more appropriate choice than contrition?

The words remorse and contrition can be used in similar contexts, but 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

When is it sensible to use repentance instead of contrition?

In some situations, the words repentance and contrition are roughly equivalent. However, repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of contrition Both expressed contrition about the incident. —

Sean Gregory, Time, 26 May 2026 In response, Peters thanked Polis, apologized and expressed contrition. —

Los Angeles Times, 20 May 2026 Fleming’s lawyers, citing his cooperation and contrition, argued for three months in federal prison and three years of supervised release. —

Dennis Romero, NBC news, 13 May 2026 One man who isn't buying Lane's act of contrition is Tim Brando. —

Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 13 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for contrition

Recent Examples of Synonyms for contrition

Noun

Fort Worth residents can now weigh in on the next steps in a transportation project that has caused headaches and buyer’s remorse in a changing neighborhood.

— Emily Holshouser, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 June 2026
The communication reportedly did not seek payment and included language expressing remorse, a detail experts say is unusual in genuine ransom demands.

— Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026

Definition of remorse

Noun

There are other options, but regardless of what’s on the table for the future, burnout deserves to be taken seriously rather than explained away out of pride, guilt, or habit.

— Scott Hanson, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Crafted with better-for-you ingredients, Javvy's Instant Protein Coffee blend and viral Coffee Concentrate deliver guilt-free indulgence, offering craveable flavors without compromise.

— ABC News, ABC News, 2 July 2026

Definition of guilt

Noun

Sherriff, who debuted with the Cardinals in 2017, expressed regret at never pitching at Dodger Stadium, citing the cumulative toll of 13 years of uncertainty.

— Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Using 10,000 rocks, more than seventy-five 80-pound bags of concrete, and over $1,000 in supplies, Ruggie has no regrets about his 14-foot deck burned in a shou sugi ban style.

— Barbara Bellesi Zito, The Spruce, 1 July 2026

Definition of regret

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contriteness

contrition

contrivance

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“Contrition.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrition. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of contrition

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