rue
ROO
/ruː/
To bitterly regret something one has done or allowed to happen.
Rue is very strong and often carries a sense of impending doom or lasting sorrow. It is rarely used in modern conversation except for dramatic effect.
The story behind the word. From the Old English 'hreowan,' meaning to make sorry or grieve. It is one of the oldest words in the English language for regret.
Word relationships
- regret: Regret is common; rue is dramatic and literary.
- celebrate: To rejoice in an action or event.
Commonly confused with
- ruthless: Ruthless means 'without rue' (without pity or regret).
Word family
- rueful (adjective): Expressing sorrow or regret, especially in a wry or humorous way.
Collocations
- rue the day
- rue the decision
- bitterly rue
Example sentences
- "You will rue the day you ever crossed me!" A dramatic warning.
- "I rue the day I ever met you." A literary quote.
Memory hook
Rue sounds like 'Roo' (Kangaroo). Imagine a kangaroo kicking you every time you think of your mistake—that's rue. Bitterly regretting.
When not to use
Avoid in business or casual settings. 'I rue the fact that I missed the meeting' sounds like you're in a Shakespeare play.
Fun facts
- Rue is also the name of a bitter herb, which was historically used as a symbol of regret and repentance.
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