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

At her sentencing, Peters repeatedly insulted the judge and never showed an ounce of contrition.

From Salon • Jan. 3, 2026

"Far from distancing himself from his earlier extremist views, he confirms that he still holds them. Far from showing contrition, he is presenting himself as the victim of a conspiracy," he added.

From BBC • Dec. 30, 2025

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

My mother can easily speak to a priest in a darkened confessional; can easily make an act of self-revelation using the impersonal formula of ritual contrition: ‘Bless me, Father, for I have sinned....’

From "Hunger of Memory" by Richard Rodriguez