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ruefully Synonyms

Another word for ruefully

Choosing another word for ruefully that fits your sentence is easier when synonyms and similar words are paired with an exact adverb definition and ranked by match strength.
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• adverb (Context 1)

In a manner that expresses sorrow, regret, or remorse, especially in a wry, humorous, or self-deprecating way.

Usage Example

"He smiled regretfully as he admitted that his ambitious shortcut had actually doubled their travel time."

Strongest
regretfully
remorsefully
Strong
sorrowfully
repentantly
woefully
contritely
penitently
mournfully
dolefully
Weak
wryly

Opposites of ruefully

The opposite of ruefully shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

impenitently
unrepentantly
joyfully
cheerfully
gladly
happily
See all opposites of ruefully

• Nearby Words

rudy
rue
rueful
ruefully
ruer
ruff
ruffed

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Ruefully. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/ruefully
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