Regretfully, spelled /rɪˈɡretfəli/, is an adverb that describes something being done with regret or sorrow. The word can be broken down phonetically into four syllables: ri-gret-ful-ly. The first syllable, ri, is pronounced with short i sound, as in "hit". The second syllable, gret, is pronounced with a hard g and a long e sound, as in "great". The third syllable, ful, is pronounced with a short u sound and an l sound, as in "full". The final syllable, ly, is pronounced with a long e sound, as in "lee".
Regretfully is an adverb that describes feelings or actions done with a sense of sorrow, disappointment, or remorse. It conveys a genuine feeling of regret or dissatisfaction towards a particular situation, decision, or outcome.
When used to express emotions, regretfully implies a sense of sadness and a desire to change or undo something that has already occurred. It signifies an understanding of the negative impact or consequence of a decision or action. For example, one might say, "Regretfully, I missed his performance," to express disappointment in not attending an event that was anticipated.
Regretfully can also be used to describe actions done with reluctance or unwillingness due to the negative implications they may have. It suggests that the person performing the action does so with a heavy heart, knowing the potential regret that may follow. For instance, if someone says, "Regretfully, I have to inform you that you did not get the job," it conveys that the person delivering the news is saddened by the outcome as they understand its impact on the recipient.
Overall, regretfully encompasses a range of emotions and actions that involve remorse, disappointment, and dissatisfaction. It serves as a powerful expression of genuine sorrow or reluctance towards a particular situation and conveys an understanding of its negative consequences.
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The word "regretfully" is formed by combining the noun "regret" with the suffix "-ful" and the adverbial suffix "-ly".
The noun "regret" originated from the Old French word "regreter" in the 14th century, which meant "bewail the dead" or "express sorrow". It further developed from the Old French verb "regreter" meaning "bewail, lament, show grief". This verb was derived from the combination of the prefix "re-" (meaning "again") and the verb "greter" (meaning "weep, lament").
The suffix "-ful" is derived from the Old English "-ful" which denotes "full of" or "having the quality of". It has also been influenced by the Old Norse "-fullr".