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

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

He gave a rueful laugh, turning the pick over in his hands.

From "Six of Crows" by Leigh Bardugo