rueful
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.
So he decides to keep appearing in clubs to tell tales of his relationship woes, lacing the commentary with rueful remarks that are vaguely comic, though nothing he says is actually funny.
From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 18, 2025
While he enjoys the craftmanship, he admits with a rueful smile that he has still not learned to play the piano himself.
From BBC • Aug. 25, 2025
The only catharsis or healing to be found in the film comes from the titular apology, more a rueful word of caution than anything else.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 27, 2025
Take it from an internet addict now in rueful repair: this is the summer to slam your laptop shut, link arms with your friends, and go outside to touch some grass.
From Slate • Jun. 20, 2025
“The poor Colonel,” Alaska said with a rueful smile.
From "Looking for Alaska" by John Green
Vocabulary lists containing rueful
List 1
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Tuck Everlasting
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"The Odyssey" by Homer, Books 8–13
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