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 The leader of the AfD in Thuringia, Bjoern Hoecke, has urged Germany to break with its culture of repentance for Nazism. — Shira Li Bartov, Sun Sentinel, 13 Apr. 2026 Its release coincides with the start of the Christian season of Lent, a period of repentance, self-reflection and resistance to temptation. — Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 24 Feb. 2026 At the same time as Ramadan this year, Christians around the world are observing lent, a 40-day period of fasting, repentance and spiritual discipline ahead of the Easter celebration. — Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 28 Feb. 2026 It is slated to feature a video of Trump on Tuesday evening reading a passage that called for national repentance in ancient Israel — words that have been used prominently for decades by those promoting the belief that America has been and should be a Christian nation. — ABC News, 21 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for repentance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for repentance
  1. remorse
  2. guilt
  3. regret
  4. shame
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
Noun
  • With wonder and with great shame the yodel is an orphaned sound, a sound that turns the serenade toward an addressee that is destined to never hear it.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 July 2026
  • Altitude is going to be a leveller, just a shame there are no West Bromwich Albion players in the England squad.
    — Phil Hay, New York Times, 4 July 2026
Definition of shame

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Repentance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/repentance. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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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