à regret
The English phrase 'regretfully' is translated into French as à regret.
À regret is used to describe an action taken unwillingly or despite a lack of desire to do so. It is frequently used in contexts such as démissionner à regret, which means to resign reluctantly.
Meaning: in a regretful manner (adv)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the preposition à (at/with) and the noun regret (regret).
Which one should you use?
While à regret and avec regret are often interchangeable, they have different nuances. Avec regret is more commonly used to describe the emotion felt by the subject, whereas à regret often functions as a fixed adverbial phrase meaning 'unwillingly'.
Did you know?
- The French word regret evolved from the Old French verb regreter, which meant to lament or complain loudly rather than simply to feel sorry.
- While à regret describes an action done reluctantly, French uses the phrase avoir des regrets to describe the lingering feeling of remorse over a past mistake.
Examples in context
- Je regrette profondément de vous informer que votre demande a été refusée.I deeply regret to inform you that your request has been denied.
- Il a accepté l'offre à regret.He accepted the offer regretfully.
- Elle a dû partir à regret.She had to leave regretfully.
- Nous refusons votre invitation à regret.We regretfully decline your invitation.
Example conversation
Léa and Nathan are discussing a job opportunity in another city.
- LéaTu vas vraiment partir, Nathan ?Are you really leaving, Nathan?
- NathanOui, j'accepte ce poste à regret.Yes, I accept this position regretfully.
- LéaC'est dommage pour nous ici.It is a pity for us here.
- NathanJe suis d'accord avec toi, Léa.I agree with you, Léa.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries regret, à, CC BY-SA 4.0.
