contrition

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When Paul pressed him again about his lack of apology, lack of contrition, and inability to even say he “misspoke,” while ribbing him about his “low impulse control” and presentation of “machismo,” Mullin didn’t waver.

From Slate • Mar. 18, 2026

By expressing contrition over her long history of trolling, which is how she rose to fame in the first place, Greene has been catching big headlines.

From Salon • Jan. 2, 2026

Its old meaning was an act of clemency extended by a legal authority in recognition of a convicted person’s contrition and commitment to reform.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 15, 2025

And the old political playbook — confession, contrition, capitulation — is obviously no longer operative, as candidates find it not only possible but even advantageous to brazen their way through storms of uproar and opprobrium.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 30, 2025

There’s a fierce expression in his eyes, tucked behind a thick layer of contrition.

From "X: A Novel" by Ilyasah Shabazz