repentance

noun

ri-ˈpen-tᵊn(t)s How to pronounce repentance (audio)
Definition of repentancenext
as in remorse
a feeling of responsibility for wrongdoing preached that repentance was the first step on the path of redemption

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word repentance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of repentance are compunction, contrition, penitence, and remorse. While all these words mean "regret for sin or wrongdoing," repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

When could compunction be used to replace repentance?

In some situations, the words compunction and repentance are roughly equivalent. However, compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

When is it sensible to use contrition instead of repentance?

The words contrition and repentance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

When is penitence a more appropriate choice than repentance?

The words penitence and repentance can be used in similar contexts, but penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

When can remorse be used instead of repentance?

Although the words remorse and repentance have much in common, 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

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 repentance Berger’s Vatican caper lacks the tact and sensitivity in François Ozon’s superb By the Grace of God, even quickly dispensing the repentance of a disgraced African cardinal (Lucian Msamati). —Armond White, National Review, 19 Feb. 2025 Jesus told the 12 that repentance and the forgiveness of sins would be preached to all the nations. —Rev. Jeff Horejsi, Twin Cities, 6 Feb. 2025 Francis also issues a call for affluent nations to forgive debts, and a general call for both repentance and mercy. —Timothy Gabrielli, The Conversation, 29 Jan. 2025 This day starts the Lenten period of repentance and preparation. —Joyce Orlando, The Tennessean, 12 Feb. 2024 See All Example Sentences for repentance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for repentance
  1. remorse
  2. guilt
  3. regret
  4. shame
Noun
  • Go hard against the legal system, sure, but show remorse for the injured party.
    — Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Pattinson’s performance makes this horrifying lack of remorse legible.
    — David Sims, The Atlantic, 12 Mar. 2025
Definition of remorse
Noun
  • Vietor, worried about guilt by association, turned it down.
    — Andrew Marantz, The New Yorker, 17 Mar. 2025
  • That guilt will weigh on my heart for the rest of my life.
    — Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of guilt
Noun
  • Bernstein and von Karajan, Danish continues, exemplify this duality, engaging openly with universal human issues like ambition, mortality, regret, and reconciliation. Music, central to both conductors' lives, plays a significant role in Last Call.
    — Court Stroud, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025
  • In Regretting You, a shocking car wreck takes the lives of two family members, unlocking a series of secrets, lies and regrets.
    — Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 14 Mar. 2025
Definition of regret
Noun
  • My enemies, including Dalen, The self-checkout-monitor guy, Laugh me to shame.
    — Ian Frazier, The New Yorker, 10 Mar. 2025
  • That’s a shame, because egg farming is particularly cruel to animals.
    — Kenny Torrella, Vox, 9 Mar. 2025
Definition of shame

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Cite this Entry

“Repentance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/repentance. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on repentance

Nglish: Translation of repentance for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about repentance

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