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

Their catch-up turns into a rueful airing out of long-simmering resentments in a way that shakes Jay to his core, confirming some of his own worst suspicions about himself.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 14, 2025

The remark carries a delicate wisp of rueful irony.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 2, 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

Especially when she looks at me and gives me a rueful grin.

From "Dread Nation" by Justina Ireland