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.

"In one day," he says, with a rueful smile.

From BBC • Feb. 3, 2026

Good actors “act the way people used to act,” he says with a rueful nostalgia at odds with his youth.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 30, 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

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

Tuck rolled over and made a rueful face at her.

From "Tuck Everlasting" by Natalie Babbit