regrettably

adverb

re·​gret·​ta·​bly ri-ˈgre-tə-blē How to pronounce regrettably (audio)
Synonyms of regrettablynext
1
: to a regrettable extent
a regrettably steep decline in wages
2
: it is to be regretted
regrettably, they could not attend

Examples of regrettably in a Sentence

The progress of the work was regrettably slow.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The segment regrettably races toward the conclusion, but at least there’s a motivation to Lisa’s violent actions. — Joshua Kurp, Vulture, 26 Oct. 2026 It must be said, regrettably, that Adams could not have been less flatteringly photographed or outfitted. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 20 Oct. 2026 Here, regrettably, is Jolly with its legs spread and waiting to receive. — Frank Landymore, Futurism, 24 Sep. 2026 Instead, regrettably, the vents are aimed using the curved central touchscreen. — Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 23 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for regrettably

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of regrettably was in 1866

Browse Nearby Words

regrettable
regrettably
regretter
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Regrettably.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/regrettably. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

regrettably

adverb
re·​gret·​ta·​bly ri-ˈgret-ə-blē How to pronounce regrettably (audio)
1
: to an extent deserving regret
a regrettably big decline in wages
2
: it is regrettable : unfortunately
regrettably, I could not agree

More from Merriam-Webster on regrettably

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for regrettably

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