Translation guide
Expressing deep regret in Japanese involves choosing the right level of formality and emotional weight. Common expressions range from casual apologies to formal, heartfelt remorse.
The speaker feels strong regret for something they did or caused, often with a sense of guilt or sorrow.
A formal and sincere way to express deep reflection and regret over one's actions. Suitable for serious situations.
I deeply regret this failure.
Directly expresses regret. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts, but often implies personal remorse.
Expresses regret with a nuance of frustration or chagrin. Often used for missed opportunities or personal mistakes.
Expresses regret or disappointment, but is less emotionally charged. Often used in formal situations or when the regret is not entirely the speaker's fault.
A very formal and humble expression of regret, often used in business or official apologies. Emphasizes the feeling of being sorry and taking responsibility.
The speaker feels sorry about an unfortunate situation, but may not be directly responsible.
A formal expression used in official statements or business contexts to express regret over a situation. Often used by organizations or in public apologies.
We deeply regret this accident.
A common and versatile way to say 'it's regrettable' or 'I'm sorry to hear that.' Can be used in both personal and formal situations.
I deeply regret that you can't come.
Expresses a feeling of deep regret or distress, often when one has to do something unpleasant or deliver bad news. More emotional than 残念です.
A profound emotional state of sadness and regret, often over a loss or past event.
A strong word for deep regret or remorse, often used in written language or formal speech. Implies a sense of bitter regret.
He looked back on the past with deep regret.
Literary term for deep remorse or penitence. Often used in psychological or philosophical contexts.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'deep sadness and regret.' Used when the emotion is a mix of grief and remorse.
反省 (はんせい) focuses on self-reflection and learning from mistakes, often with a forward-looking attitude. 後悔 (こうかい) is simply regretting something, without necessarily implying reflection. In formal apologies, 反省 is preferred because it shows a willingness to improve.
I am reflecting on my actions (and will do better).
I regret it (I wish I hadn't done it).
The phrase '深い後悔' (ふかいこうかい) is grammatically correct but sounds somewhat stiff and literary. In everyday speech, it's more natural to use verb phrases like 深く反省しています or とても後悔しています.
I regret not being honest at that time.
I regret not studying more.
I deeply regret that things turned out this way.
I deeply regret causing you trouble.
I deeply regret having to inform you of this.
彼の心は悔恨で満たされていた。
His heart was filled with deep regret.
She was seized with deep regret and sorrow.