From Middle English contricioun, through Anglo-French from Latin contritio, meaning grief or a wearing down. It comes from conterere, to crush or wear down. The religious sense developed from the image of a hardened heart being crushed into repentance.
What does contrition mean?
It means deep and sincere sorrow for wrongdoing. In religion, it often means repentance for sin.
Is contrition the same as remorse?
They are close. Contrition is a formal kind of remorse that stresses sorrowful regret and often a desire to make amends.
Is contrition a religious word?
It can be. It is common in Christian contexts, but it can also describe sincere remorse in legal, public, or personal situations.
What is an act of contrition?
An act of contrition is a prayer or expression of sorrow for sin, often connected with confession or repentance.
How do you use contrition in a sentence?
A natural sentence is She expressed genuine contrition for what she had done.
What are synonyms of contrition?
Synonyms include remorse, repentance, penitence, regret, guilt, and compunction.
What is the opposite of contrition?
Opposites include impenitence, defiance, shamelessness, and remorselessness.