Regret in Spanish: Definition, Words, and Simple Examples

Most likely, you have already experienced regret. This word means that you wished something had gone differently. Or you feel that you are sorry for what you did or did not do. Sometimes, you need to say that you hold regret with simple words and phrases in Spanish in various contexts from emotions to memory.

Learning basic phrases like “I regret” and “I am sorry” is necessary to sound natural when speaking Spanish. This article explains the definition of regret in Spanish, the main words that are used, and the phrases formed with the help of them. The provided words and examples are easy to implement in your daily speech.

What Regret Means in Spanish

Regret translates into Spanish in several different words depending on the context. The defining words are the following:

Arrepentirse: to regret or repent.

Lamentar: to regret or feel sorry about.

Sentir: to feel sorry.

Both of them have distinct features but combine the main idea of the words – the event that had taken place should not be the same or have happened in another way.

Arrepentirse: To Regret or To Repent

This is the most direct translation of “to regret.” It is a reflexive verb. Which means it changes form depending on who is speaking.

Examples:

• Se arrepintió de sus palabras. (He regretted his words.) 
• Nos arrepentimos de no viajar contigo. (We regret not traveling with you.) 

You can use arrepentirse de followed by a noun, verb, or phrase to explain what you regret.

Also Read: Where in Spanish: Definition, Pronunciation, and Examples

Lamentar: To Regret or To Be Sorry About

More formal and often employed in writing, news, and courteous conversation is the verb lamentar. It also means to be sad about something bad.

For instance, 

• Lamento llegar tarde.(I’m sorry for being late.)

If you want to come across as respectful or sympathetic, this is a great option.

Sentir: To be sorry or regret

One of the most popular and straightforward ways to convey regret is with the verb sentir. It can also mean “to feel.” “I am sorry” is what it means when used as lo siento.

Examples include: 

• Lo siento mucho. (I sincerely apologize.)
• Siento haber mendido. (I apologize for lying.)

This word is appropriate for both informal and sentimental discussions.

Common Spanish Phrases for Regret

The following are practical Spanish expressions for regret that you can use on a daily basis:

• Ojalá no lo hubiera hecho. (I regret doing it.)
• Quisiera volver atrás. (I wish I could return.)

You can naturally express regret or feelings of emotion by using these sentences.

Expressing regret is simple once you know the key verbs. They all help you express what you feel bad about. Doesn’t matter whether it’s a small mistake or a big life event. You can start by learning short phrases. Then move on to full sentences.

If you know how to express emotions in this language. Then it will help you communicate with speakers of this language more successfully. It gives your discussions authenticity and depth. Try using one of these confident Spanish expressions the next time you want to say, “I regret it.”