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B1 verb 9 min read

angre

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips angre in 30 Seconds
Explanation angre in your Level:
At A1 level, learners are just beginning to grasp basic Norwegian. They might recognize simple words related to emotions, but understanding the nuance of regret is beyond this stage. They would focus on greetings, introductions, and very basic vocabulary. The concept of 'angre' requires a level of self-reflection and understanding of past actions and consequences that is not yet developed.
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At A2, learners can understand simple sentences and common expressions related to immediate needs and familiar topics. They might start to encounter words related to feelings in a very basic way, perhaps understanding 'lei seg' (sad). However, the concept of 'angre' – a reflection on past actions with a desire to change them – is still too complex. They would be more focused on present actions and immediate future plans.
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At B1, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. They can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. They can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. This is where 'angre' becomes relevant. Learners at this level can comprehend and use the verb to express personal regret about past decisions or actions, especially when related to familiar situations like studies, work, or personal relationships.
At B2, learners can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. They can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. At this level, learners can use 'angre' with greater precision, understanding its various collocations and idiomatic uses. They can also differentiate it more clearly from similar words like 'beklage'. They can express more nuanced forms of regret, perhaps related to more abstract concepts or complex life choices.
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At C1, learners can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. They can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. They can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. At C1, learners can employ 'angre' in sophisticated ways, understanding its cultural implications and using it in literary analysis or philosophical discussions about choice and consequence. They can also use it to express very subtle forms of regret or self-recrimination.
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At C2, learners have a level of mastery comparable to that of a native speaker. They can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. They can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. They can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations. At C2, learners will use 'angre' with complete naturalness, understanding its full spectrum of meaning and usage, including highly idiomatic or archaic forms if they arise. They can analyze its use in literature and historical texts with expert precision.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

angre in 30 Seconds

  • To feel regret or remorse about past actions or decisions.
  • Commonly used with 'på' (angre på noe) or 'at' (angre at noe skjedde).
  • Expresses a wish for a different past outcome.
  • Distinct from 'beklage' (to apologize/formally regret).
The Norwegian verb angre translates directly to 'to regret' or 'to feel remorse' in English. It signifies a feeling of sorrow, disappointment, or guilt over something that has been done or not done in the past. This feeling often arises when a person realizes that a past action or decision had negative consequences, or when they believe they could have acted differently and better. It's a common human emotion, and angre captures this sentiment effectively in Norwegian. People use angre when they look back on their choices and wish they could change them, or when they feel a sense of guilt about their behavior. It can be a mild feeling of wishing things were different, or a deeper, more profound sense of remorse. The intensity of the feeling can vary greatly depending on the situation and the individual. For instance, one might angre a small, impulsive purchase, or they might angre a major life decision that led to significant hardship. The word is versatile and can be applied to personal choices, actions towards others, or even missed opportunities. Understanding angre is crucial for grasping nuanced emotional expressions in Norwegian, as it goes beyond a simple 'sorry' and delves into the internal experience of looking back with a desire for a different past.
Usage Context
Used when reflecting on past actions or inactions with a feeling of sorrow or guilt.
Emotional Nuance
Implies a desire to undo or change a past event or decision.

Jeg angre på at jeg ikke studerte mer da jeg var yngre.

I regret not studying more when I was younger.

Han angre dypt for ordene han sa.

He deeply regrets the words he said.
The verb angre is a fundamental part of expressing regret in Norwegian. It typically takes a direct object or is followed by a prepositional phrase indicating what is being regretted. The most common construction is angre på noe, meaning 'to regret something'. This 'noe' can be a noun, a pronoun, or a clause. For example, 'Jeg angre på kjøpet' (I regret the purchase). When regretting an action or event described by a verb, you can use a subordinate clause introduced by 'at'. For instance, 'Jeg angre at jeg sa det' (I regret that I said that). The verb conjugates like a regular verb: angrer (present), angret (past), har angret (past participle). You will frequently encounter angre in contexts where someone is reflecting on past decisions, mistakes, or missed opportunities. It can be used in personal confessions, apologies, or in narratives discussing character development. The word is versatile enough for both minor inconveniences and significant life choices. For instance, a student might angre missing a deadline, while an elder might angre not spending enough time with family. It's important to note that angre implies a subjective feeling; it's about the internal state of the person experiencing the regret. It's not about external judgment but the personal dissatisfaction with a past outcome. The verb can also be used reflexively in certain contexts, though this is less common. However, the core usage revolves around expressing a personal feeling of wishing a past event had unfolded differently.
Basic Structure
angre på + noun/pronoun (to regret something)
Clause Structure
angre at + clause (to regret that...)
Verb Conjugation
Present: angrer, Past: angret, Past Participle: har angret

Hun angret sitt valg.

She regretted her choice.

Vi angrer at vi ikke lyttet til rådene.

We regret that we did not listen to the advice.

Barnet angret at det hadde tatt leken uten å spørre.

The child regretted that it had taken the toy without asking.
You'll hear the verb angre in a wide array of everyday Norwegian conversations and media. It's a word that deals with personal reflection and emotion, so it naturally surfaces in discussions about life choices, mistakes, and relationships. In casual conversations, friends might share their regrets about past decisions, such as 'Jeg angrer på at jeg sluttet i jobben min' (I regret quitting my job) or 'Jeg skulle ønske jeg ikke hadde sagt det, jeg angrer veldig' (I wish I hadn't said that, I really regret it). In more formal settings, like therapy sessions or self-help discussions, angre is used to explore feelings of guilt and the process of coming to terms with past actions. News reports might cover stories where individuals express regret over their involvement in certain events or decisions. Literature and film often employ angre to develop characters, showing their internal struggles and growth as they grapple with the consequences of their actions. For example, a character might reflect on a past betrayal and say, 'Jeg angrer på alt jeg gjorde mot deg' (I regret everything I did to you). Even in everyday decision-making, when someone makes a choice and then immediately feels a pang of doubt or disappointment, they might say, 'Å nei, jeg angrer allerede!' (Oh no, I already regret it!). The word is also common in advice-giving contexts, where people might warn others, 'Ikke gjør det, du kommer til å angre' (Don't do it, you will regret it). It's a versatile term that reflects a universal human experience, making it a frequent and natural part of the Norwegian lexicon.
Everyday Chat
Used when discussing personal decisions and their outcomes.
Media and Literature
Common in narratives to express character remorse and internal conflict.
Advice and Warnings
Used to caution others against potentially regrettable actions.

Han sa at han angret hele episoden.

He said he regretted the whole episode.

Mange eldre angre at de ikke tilbrakte nok tid med familien.

Many elderly people regret not spending enough time with family.

Du burde ikke gjøre det; du kommer til å angre.

You shouldn't do it; you will regret it.
While angre is a straightforward verb, learners sometimes make a few common mistakes. One frequent error is the omission of the preposition 'på' when it's required. For instance, saying 'Jeg angre det' instead of the correct 'Jeg angre på det'. The preposition 'på' is crucial for specifying what is being regretted. Another mistake can be the incorrect conjugation of the verb, especially in past tenses. While 'angrer' (present) is usually correct, learners might confuse it with 'angret' or use the wrong auxiliary verb in the perfect tense. For example, using 'har angret' when a simple past 'angret' is needed, or vice-versa, depending on the context. Misunderstanding the nuances between angre and similar words like 'beklage' (to apologize/to regret in a more formal, often less personal sense) can also lead to errors. While both can translate to 'regret', angre usually implies a deeper, personal remorse, whereas beklage can be used for expressing sympathy or a more formal apology. For instance, one angre a personal mistake, but a company might beklage a service failure. Lastly, learners might sometimes translate English phrases too literally, leading to awkward phrasing. For example, directly translating 'I regret to inform you' might not use angre in the same way. In Norwegian, a more suitable phrase might involve 'beklage' or a different construction altogether. Paying close attention to the prepositions and the context of regret will help avoid these pitfalls.
Preposition Usage
Forgetting 'på' after 'angre' when specifying what is regretted.
Verb Conjugation
Incorrect forms in past tense or perfect tenses.
Word Choice
Confusing 'angre' with 'beklage' (to apologize/regret formally).

Feil: Jeg angre det.

Incorrect: I regret it.

Riktig: Jeg angrer på det.

Correct: I regret it.

Feil: Han angret at han sa det.

Incorrect: He regretted that he said it. (if referring to present feeling about past action)

Riktig: Han angrer at han sa det.

Correct: He regrets that he said it. (present tense)
While angre is the primary verb for expressing personal regret or remorse, Norwegian offers other words and phrases that convey similar sentiments, often with subtle differences in nuance or formality.
Beklage
This word is often translated as 'to apologize' or 'to regret'. However, 'beklage' tends to be more formal than 'angre'. You might 'beklage' a service failure, express sympathy, or offer a more official apology. While you can 'beklage' a personal mistake, 'angre' usually implies a deeper, personal remorse. For example, a company might 'beklage' a delay, while a person might 'angre' a harsh word spoken in anger.
Example: 'Vi beklager eventuelle ulemper.' (We apologize for any inconvenience.) vs. 'Jeg angrer på at jeg var så frekk.' (I regret that I was so rude.)
Sorg
This noun means 'sorrow' or 'grief'. While regret can lead to sorrow, 'sorg' itself is a deeper emotional state, often associated with loss. You don't typically 'angre' sorrow; rather, you might feel sorrow *because* of something you regret.
Example: 'Det er med sorg jeg ser hva som har skjedd.' (It is with sorrow I see what has happened.)
Skuffelse
This noun means 'disappointment'. Regret often stems from disappointment with oneself or a situation. One might feel 'skuffelse' because of something they 'angre'.
Example: 'Han følte en dyp skuffelse over sin egen innsats.' (He felt a deep disappointment over his own effort.)
Skyldfølelse
This noun translates to 'guilt' or 'sense of guilt'. Regretting a past action, especially one that harmed others, often leads to 'skyldfølelse'. While 'angre' describes the feeling of wishing things were different, 'skyldfølelse' is the feeling of being responsible for wrongdoing.
Example: 'Etter tyveriet fikk han en sterk skyldfølelse.' (After the theft, he got a strong sense of guilt.)
Å ønske at...
This phrase, meaning 'to wish that...', is a common way to express regret without using the verb 'angre' directly. It focuses on the desire for a different past.
Example: 'Jeg skulle ønske jeg hadde sagt ja.' (I wish I had said yes.) - This implies regret.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

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Neutral

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Informal

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Child friendly

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Fun Fact

The Proto-Germanic root '*angrōną' is also related to words meaning 'narrow' or 'tight', such as the English 'anger'. This connection highlights how deeply intertwined the feeling of distress and regret can be, often causing a constricting emotional sensation.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈɑŋ.rə/
US /ˈɑŋ.rə/
The stress is on the first syllable: AN-gre.
Rhymes With
fange slange mange enge lange trenger fremmer henger
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the 'a' as in 'cat'.
  • Not rolling or tapping the 'r' sound sufficiently.
  • Pronouncing the final 'e' as a full 'ee' sound.
  • Misplacing stress on the second syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

At B1 level, understanding 'angre' in context is achievable. Learners can grasp the core meaning of regret in straightforward sentences. More complex or idiomatic uses might require further study.

Writing 3/5

Learners at B1 can correctly use 'angre' in basic sentence structures, particularly with 'på' and 'at'. Mastering the nuances and avoiding common errors requires practice.

Speaking 3/5

Producing 'angre' spontaneously in conversation is feasible at B1, especially when discussing personal experiences. Fluency and accuracy improve with practice.

Listening 3/5

Recognizing 'angre' in spoken Norwegian is generally possible for B1 learners, especially in clear, standard speech. Context will often help clarify the meaning.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

jeg du han hun vi de på at gjøre si ta ville ha være

Learn Next

beklage ønske skyldfølelse skuffelse etterpåklokskap

Advanced

angst fortryllelse forsoning straff konsekvens

Grammar to Know

Use of prepositions 'på' and 'at' with verbs.

'Angre på' is used when regretting a specific object or thing, like 'angre på kjøpet' (regret the purchase). 'Angre at' is used when regretting a situation or action described by a clause, like 'angre at han sa det' (regret that he said it).

Verb conjugation in past and perfect tenses.

The past tense is 'angret'. The past participle is 'har angret'. For example, 'Jeg angret på det i går' (I regretted it yesterday), but 'Jeg har angret på det lenge' (I have regretted it for a long time).

Conditional sentences expressing future regret.

'Du kommer til å angre hvis du ikke lytter.' (You will regret it if you don't listen.) This uses the future tense with 'komme til å'.

Using possessive pronouns with nouns that are regretted.

'Hun angret sitt valg.' (She regretted her choice.) The possessive pronoun agrees in gender and number with the noun 'valg'.

Adverbs modifying the intensity of regret.

'Han angret dypt.' (He deeply regretted.) 'Hun angret bittert.' (She bitterly regretted.) Adverbs like 'dypt' (deeply) and 'bittert' (bitterly) intensify the feeling of regret.

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Examples by Level

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

1

Jeg er lei meg.

I am sad.

Basic emotion expression.

2

Jeg gjorde en feil.

I made a mistake.

Simple past tense for actions.

3

Det var ikke lurt.

That was not smart.

Expressing mild disapproval of an action.

4

Jeg skulle ønske det var annerledes.

I wish it were different.

Simple wish structure, hinting at regret.

5

Han er trist.

He is sad.

Basic description of emotion.

6

Jeg vil ikke gjøre det igjen.

I do not want to do that again.

Expressing a decision based on past experience.

7

Det var dumt av meg.

That was silly of me.

Self-deprecating remark.

8

Jeg håper det går bra.

I hope it goes well.

Expressing hope for a future outcome.

1

Jeg angrer på at jeg ikke lyttet til deg.

I regret not listening to you.

Uses 'angre på' with a clause introduced by 'at'.

2

Hun angret sitt impulsive kjøp.

She regretted her impulsive purchase.

Uses 'angre' with a direct object (possessive pronoun + noun).

3

De angret på at de hadde reist så sent.

They regretted that they had traveled so late.

Uses past perfect tense with 'angre'.

4

Jeg angrer på ordene jeg sa.

I regret the words I said.

Direct object specifying the regretted item.

5

Han angret dypt for sin tidligere oppførsel.

He deeply regretted his earlier behavior.

Uses adverb 'dypt' to emphasize regret.

6

Vi angrer at vi ikke tok med oss mer klær.

We regret not bringing more clothes.

Regret about an action/omission.

7

Barnet angret på at det hadde tatt kaken.

The child regretted taking the cake.

Simple past tense used with 'angre'.

8

Jeg angrer på at jeg ikke sa ifra.

I regret not speaking up.

Regret over inaction.

1

Han angret bittert på at han hadde sviktet sine venner.

He bitterly regretted that he had failed his friends.

Uses adverb 'bittert' and past perfect tense.

2

Hun angret på at hun hadde takket ja til tilbudet.

She regretted having accepted the offer.

Expressing regret about a past acceptance.

3

De angret på at de hadde investert alle pengene sine.

They regretted having invested all their money.

Regret concerning financial decisions.

4

Jeg kommer til å angre hvis jeg ikke prøver.

I will regret it if I don't try.

Conditional statement about future regret.

5

Han angret på at han hadde latt muligheten gå fra seg.

He regretted letting the opportunity slip away.

Regret over a missed opportunity.

6

Hun angret på at hun hadde brukt så mye penger på unødvendige ting.

She regretted spending so much money on unnecessary things.

Regret about excessive spending.

7

De angret på at de ikke hadde vært mer forsiktige.

They regretted not being more careful.

Regret over lack of caution.

8

Han angret på at han hadde tatt den avgjørelsen alene.

He regretted making that decision alone.

Regret about the manner of decision-making.

1

Etter mange år innså hun at hun angret på hele livsvalget sitt.

After many years, she realized that she regretted her entire life choice.

Expressing profound, long-term regret about a major life decision.

2

Han angret på at han hadde latt egoet sitt styre handlingene sine.

He regretted letting his ego guide his actions.

Regret related to character flaws influencing behavior.

3

Det er en dyp følelse av å angre på tapt tid.

There is a deep feeling of regretting lost time.

Abstract regret concerning the passage of time.

4

Hun angret på at hun hadde vært så naiv i den situasjonen.

She regretted being so naive in that situation.

Regret tied to a perceived personal failing (naivety).

5

Mange angret på at de ikke hadde fulgt sine drømmer.

Many regretted not having followed their dreams.

Collective regret about unfulfilled aspirations.

6

Han angret på at han aldri hadde lært å tilgi seg selv.

He regretted never having learned to forgive himself.

Regret related to self-acceptance and internal peace.

7

De angret på at de hadde latt frykten diktere valgene sine.

They regretted letting fear dictate their choices.

Regret stemming from decisions driven by fear.

8

Det er en universell følelse å angre på ting man ikke gjorde.

It is a universal feeling to regret things one did not do.

Philosophical statement on regret of inaction.

1

Han angret på den skjebnesvangre beslutningen som hadde preget resten av hans liv.

He regretted the fateful decision that had marked the rest of his life.

Highly literary use, 'skjebnesvangre' (fateful) adds weight.

2

Det var en følelse av overveldende anger over uopprettelige feil.

It was a feeling of overwhelming remorse for irreparable mistakes.

Using 'anger' (noun form) and 'uopprettelige' (irreparable) for profound regret.

3

Hun angret på at hun hadde ofret prinsippene sine for kortsiktig gevinst.

She regretted sacrificing her principles for short-term gain.

Regret involving moral compromise.

4

Det er et dypt, eksistensielt anker å se tilbake på et liv uten mening.

It is a deep, existential regret to look back on a life without meaning.

Existential regret, using 'anker' (regret/anchor) metaphorically.

5

Han angret på at han hadde latt sin stolthet stå i veien for forsoning.

He regretted letting his pride stand in the way of reconciliation.

Regret concerning interpersonal conflict due to pride.

6

Den politiske lederen angret på de kontroversielle uttalelsene som hadde splittet nasjonen.

The political leader regretted the controversial statements that had divided the nation.

Regret in a public and political context.

7

Hun angret på at hun aldri hadde våget å uttrykke sine sanne følelser.

She regretted never having dared to express her true feelings.

Regret about emotional repression.

8

Det er en smertefull erkjennelse å angre på valg som ikke kan omgjøres.

It is a painful realization to regret choices that cannot be undone.

Focus on the finality and pain of irreversible regret.

Common Collocations

angre på
angre bittert
angre dypt
angre sine ord
angre et valg
angre på en feil
angre på en beslutning
angre på at
aldri angre
komme til å angre

Common Phrases

Jeg angrer på det.

— I regret it. This is a very common and direct way to express regret about something specific.

Jeg kjøpte den jakken, men nå angrer jeg på det.

Hun angret på valget sitt.

— She regretted her choice. Used when someone is unhappy with a decision they made.

Etter å ha tenkt seg om, angret hun på valget sitt om å si opp jobben.

Han angret bittert.

— He bitterly regretted (it). This implies a strong, painful sense of regret.

Han angret bittert på at han hadde såret henne.

Du kommer til å angre.

— You will regret it. Often used as a warning.

Hvis du ikke hører etter, kommer du til å angre.

aldri angre

— Never regret. Used to express certainty about a decision.

Jeg tok den riktige avgjørelsen, og jeg vil aldri angre.

angre på at man...

— To regret that one... This introduces a clause explaining the reason for regret.

Mange angrer på at de ikke brukte mer tid med familien sin.

å angre sine synder

— To repent one's sins. This is a more religious or moral context.

Presten oppfordret menigheten til å angre sine synder.

å angre en investering

— To regret an investment. Common in financial contexts.

Investorene angret på investeringen da markedet falt.

å angre på tiden som har gått

— To regret the time that has passed. Reflecting on wasted time.

Hun angret på tiden som hadde gått uten at hun hadde oppnådd sine mål.

det er ingen vits å angre

— There's no point in regretting. Used to encourage moving on from past mistakes.

Det er ingen vits å angre; vi må se fremover.

Often Confused With

angre vs beklage

'Beklage' is more often used for formal apologies, expressing sympathy, or regretting something in a less personal or internal way. 'Angre' implies a deeper, personal remorse and a wish to undo the past.

angre vs ønske

'Ønske' means 'to wish'. While wishing for a different past often implies regret, 'angre' directly names the feeling of regret itself.

angre vs angst

'Angst' means anxiety or dread. While regret can lead to anxiety, 'angre' specifically refers to the feeling about a past action, whereas 'angst' is a broader emotional state, often future-oriented or existential.

Idioms & Expressions

"å angre som en hund"

— To regret something very deeply and intensely. This idiom emphasizes the extremity of the regret.

Etter å ha mistet alt, angret han som en hund på sine gamblingvaner.

"å angre på at man ikke har..."

— To regret not having... This is a common structure to express regret over missed opportunities or inaction.

Mange eldre angret på at de ikke hadde reist mer i sin ungdom.

"å angre seg"

— To change one's mind, often after realizing a mistake or potential negative consequence. It implies a reversal of intention due to regret.

Han var på vei ut døren, men angret seg og ble hjemme.

"å angre en handel"

— To regret a deal or a transaction. Used when a purchase or agreement turns out to be unsatisfactory.

Selgeren angret fort handelen da han så den virkelige verdien.

"å angre på at man har vært for..."

— To regret having been too... This structure points to an excess of a certain quality or action.

Hun angret på at hun hadde vært for naiv i forretningsforhandlingene.

"å angre på en uttalelse"

— To regret a statement. Used when words spoken are later found to be wrong or hurtful.

Politikeren angret på uttalelsen som skapte overskrifter.

"å angre på et øyeblikk"

— To regret a moment. Often used for impulsive actions or words said in haste.

Han angret på et øyeblikk at han hadde takket ja til utfordringen.

"å angre på at man ikke har lyttet"

— To regret not having listened. Emphasizes the importance of paying attention.

Mange angret på at de ikke hadde lyttet til advarslene.

"å angre på en handling"

— To regret an action. A general phrase for regretting something done.

Han angret på handlingen som førte til fengsel.

"å angre på at man har vært for..."

— To regret having been too... This structure points to an excess of a certain quality or action.

Hun angret på at hun hadde vært for naiv i forretningsforhandlingene.

Easily Confused

angre vs beklage

Both can translate to 'regret' or imply a negative feeling about a past event.

'Angre' focuses on personal, internal remorse and the wish to undo something. 'Beklage' is often used for formal apologies, expressing sympathy, or regretting something in a more detached or official capacity. You 'angre' a personal mistake, but a company might 'beklage' a service failure.

Jeg angrer på at jeg var frekk. (I regret being rude - personal remorse). Vi beklager at produktet var defekt. (We regret that the product was defective - formal apology).

angre vs ønske

Expressing a wish for a different past naturally implies regret.

'Ønske' (to wish) expresses a desire for something different, often in the future or a hypothetical past. 'Angre' (to regret) is the specific emotional response of feeling sorrow or remorse about a past action or inaction. 'Jeg skulle ønske jeg hadde mer penger' (I wish I had more money) might imply regret about past spending habits, but 'Jeg angrer på at jeg brukte alle pengene' (I regret spending all the money) directly states the regret.

Jeg ønsker jeg var i syden. (I wish I were in the south - desire). Jeg angrer på at jeg ikke dro til syden. (I regret not going to the south - regret over inaction).

angre vs angst

Regret can sometimes lead to feelings of anxiety.

'Angre' is about feeling remorse for a past action. 'Angst' is a broader term for anxiety, fear, or dread, which can be triggered by many things, including regret, but also by future worries, general unease, or specific phobias. 'Angre' is specific to past events; 'angst' can be about the past, present, or future.

Han angrer på at han løy. (He regrets lying - specific past action). Han følte angst for å bli oppdaget. (He felt anxiety about being discovered - fear of future consequence).

angre vs skyldfølelse

Regretting harmful actions often involves a sense of guilt.

'Angre' is the verb for the feeling of regret – wishing a past event was different. 'Skyldfølelse' (guilt) is the feeling of being responsible for wrongdoing, often accompanied by remorse. You can 'angre' on a mistake without necessarily feeling deep 'skyldfølelse', and you can feel 'skyldfølelse' even if you don't explicitly 'angre' in words.

Jeg angrer på at jeg tok sykkelen uten lov. (I regret taking the bike without permission - remorse). Barnet hadde skyldfølelse og tilsto. (The child felt guilty and confessed - sense of responsibility for wrongdoing).

angre vs skuffelse

Regret often arises from disappointment with oneself or a situation.

'Skuffelse' (disappointment) is the feeling of sadness or displeasure because something did not meet expectations. 'Angre' is the feeling of regret over a past action or decision that led to that disappointment. You might feel 'skuffelse' because you 'angre' a choice.

Resultatet var en stor skuffelse. (The result was a big disappointment - outcome). Jeg angrer på at jeg ikke trente mer, derfor ble jeg skuffet over prestasjonen. (I regret not training more, therefore I was disappointed with the performance - cause and effect).

Sentence Patterns

A2/B1

Subject + angrer + på + Noun

Jeg angrer på kjøpet.

B1

Subject + angrer + at + Clause

Hun angrer at hun sa det.

B1

Subject + angret + Adverb

Han angret bittert.

B1

Subject + angrer + på + Possessive Pronoun + Noun

Vi angrer på våre feil.

B1/B2

Subject + kommer til å + angre

Du kommer til å angre på dette.

B2

Subject + angret + på + at + Clause (past perfect)

De angret på at de hadde reist så sent.

C1

Subject + angrer + på + Noun + som + Clause

Jeg angrer på beslutningen som førte til problemer.

C1/C2

Abstract Subject + er + Noun (anger) + om + Clause

Det er en stor anger om tapte muligheter.

Word Family

Nouns

anger Regret, remorse (noun form)
angring The act of regretting (less common)

Verbs

Adjectives

angrende Regretful (present participle used as adjective)

Related

beklage To apologize; to regret (more formal)
ønske To wish
angst Anxiety, dread
skyld Guilt, blame
skuffelse Disappointment
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How to Use It

frequency

High

Common Mistakes
  • Omitting the preposition 'på'. → Jeg angrer på det.

    The preposition 'på' is typically required when specifying what is being regretted. Forgetting it makes the sentence grammatically incorrect.

  • Confusing 'angre' with 'beklage' in informal contexts. → Jeg angrer på at jeg sa det.

    'Beklage' is usually more formal. Using 'beklage' for personal, strong regret can sound odd. 'Angre' is the natural choice for personal remorse.

  • Incorrect past tense conjugation. → Han angret på beslutningen.

    The past tense of 'angre' is 'angret'. Learners might mistakenly use the present tense 'angrer' or an incorrect form.

  • Using 'angre' for future actions. → Du kommer til å angre hvis du gjør det.

    While you can express future regret ('komme til å angre'), the verb itself refers to a feeling about the past. It's not used to mean 'will regret' in the sense of a prediction without the auxiliary phrase.

  • Direct translation from English 'I regret to inform you'. → Jeg må dessverre informere deg om at...

    The direct translation using 'angre' often sounds unnatural or overly personal in formal contexts. 'Beklage' or simply stating the unfortunate news is usually preferred.

Tips

Mastering 'på' and 'at'

Remember the crucial difference: 'angre på' is for regretting a *thing* (noun/pronoun), while 'angre at' is for regretting a *situation* or *action* described by a clause. Consistent practice with these structures will solidify your understanding.

Rolling Your R's

Norwegian 'r' sounds can be tricky for English speakers. Practice the rolled or tapped 'r' in 'angre' to sound more natural. Listen to native speakers and try to imitate the sound.

Differentiate from 'Beklage'

Don't confuse 'angre' with 'beklage'. While both can relate to regret, 'angre' is personal and internal, whereas 'beklage' is more for formal apologies or expressing sympathy. Using the wrong word can change the nuance of your message.

Create Personal Examples

Think of real-life situations where you've felt regret (or imagined them) and try to express them in Norwegian using 'angre'. Connecting the word to your own experiences makes it much easier to remember and use correctly.

Write Sentences Daily

Dedicate a few minutes each day to writing sentences using 'angre' in different tenses and structures. This consistent writing practice will build fluency and accuracy.

Listen Actively

When listening to Norwegian media, actively listen for the verb 'angre'. Try to identify what the speaker is regretting and the context in which they are using the word.

Understand the Nuance

In Norwegian culture, acknowledging regret can be seen as a sign of maturity. Understanding this context can help you use 'angre' more appropriately in conversations.

Explore Related Words

Learning words like 'anger' (noun), 'angrende' (adjective/participle), and related concepts like 'skyldfølelse' (guilt) and 'skuffelse' (disappointment) will enrich your understanding and usage of 'angre'.

Role-Play Scenarios

Practice scenarios where you need to express regret, such as apologizing for a mistake or reflecting on a past decision. This will build confidence in using 'angre' in spoken communication.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine someone 'ANGRY' because they 'REGRET' eating too much 'GRAPE' candy. The 'ANGRY' sound is close to 'angre', and the 'REGRET' and 'GRAPE' connect to the meaning.

Visual Association

Picture a person looking sadly at a crossroads, with one path clearly leading to a negative outcome (perhaps a stormy cloud) that they are now forced to take, while the other path (representing a choice not taken) is fading away. The expression on their face is one of deep regret.

Word Web

Regret Remorse Sorrow Disappointment Guilt Past mistakes Bad decisions Wishing for change

Challenge

Try to think of three past decisions you've made (even small ones) and describe, in Norwegian, what you regret about them using 'angre på'. If you can't think of any, imagine a scenario where someone might regret something.

Word Origin

The Norwegian verb 'angre' originates from Old Norse 'angra', which itself is related to Proto-Germanic '*angrōną'. This root is associated with feelings of tightness, distress, or vexation, which aligns with the emotional experience of regret.

Original meaning: The older Germanic roots suggest a feeling of being 'choked' or 'distressed', implying a strong negative emotional reaction.

Indo-European > Germanic > North Germanic > Old Norse > Norwegian

Cultural Context

Expressing regret is generally acceptable and can be a sign of empathy and maturity. However, dwelling excessively on regret can be seen as unproductive. The context and the sincerity of the expression are important.

In English-speaking cultures, 'regret' is a direct translation and carries similar weight. Phrases like 'I regret to inform you' or 'I regret my actions' are common. The emotional and moral implications are largely the same.

The phrase 'No regrets' is popular, suggesting a life lived without looking back with sorrow, though often used ironically. Many songs and poems explore themes of regret over lost love, missed opportunities, or past wrongs. In literature, characters often grapple with profound regrets that shape their destiny, such as in 'The Great Gatsby' or 'Hamlet'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Reflecting on past decisions

  • Jeg angrer på at jeg...
  • Hun angret på sitt valg.
  • Vi kom til å angre.

Expressing disappointment with outcomes

  • Det var ikke det jeg håpet på, jeg angrer.
  • Jeg angrer på at resultatet ble slik.

Giving or receiving advice

  • Du kommer til å angre hvis du...
  • Ikke gjør det, du vil angre.

Discussing mistakes

  • Jeg angrer på feilen jeg gjorde.
  • Han angret bittert på sine handlinger.

Moral or ethical reflections

  • Å angre sine synder.
  • Angrer du på det du gjorde?

Conversation Starters

"What's one decision you've made that you sometimes regret, and why?"

"Have you ever wished you could go back in time and change something? What would it be?"

"How do you deal with the feeling of regret when it comes up?"

"Can you think of a time when someone else's regret taught you a lesson?"

"Is it better to live without regrets, or is it important to acknowledge them?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you made a decision and later felt regret. Describe the situation, your feelings, and what you learned from it.

Reflect on a missed opportunity. What do you regret about not taking it, and how does that feeling manifest itself?

Consider a time you hurt someone. Do you regret your actions? How do you express that regret, if at all?

Imagine you could give advice to your past self. What would you tell yourself to prevent future regret?

Write about the concept of 'living without regrets'. Do you believe it's possible? What does it mean to you?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Angre' is primarily used for personal, internal regret or remorse about past actions or decisions, often implying a wish to undo them. 'Beklage' is more commonly used for formal apologies, expressing sympathy, or regretting something in a more official or less personal context. For instance, you 'angre' a harsh word spoken to a friend, but a company might 'beklage' a delay in service.

You generally use 'angre på' followed by a noun or pronoun when you regret a specific thing, object, or abstract concept. For example, 'Jeg angrer på kjøpet' (I regret the purchase). You use 'angre at' followed by a clause when you regret that a certain event happened or that you performed a certain action. For example, 'Jeg angrer at jeg sa det' (I regret that I said it).

Yes, you can express future regret using phrases like 'Du kommer til å angre' (You will regret it). This is often used as a warning. The verb itself isn't conjugated in a future tense form directly, but rather through auxiliary constructions.

Yes, 'angre' inherently describes a negative emotional state of regret or remorse. It signifies dissatisfaction with a past choice or action and a desire for a different outcome. There isn't a positive counterpart that uses the same root.

The noun form is 'anger', which means regret or remorse. For example, 'Han følte dyp anger over sine handlinger' (He felt deep remorse for his actions).

'Angre' is a very common verb. It's used frequently in everyday conversations when people reflect on their decisions, mistakes, or missed opportunities. It's a fundamental part of expressing personal emotions related to the past.

Yes, you can. This is often expressed using phrases like 'Jeg angrer på at jeg ikke gjorde det' (I regret not doing it) or 'Jeg angrer på at jeg ikke lyttet' (I regret not listening). It's regret over inaction or missed opportunities.

'Angre' is about feeling regret for a past action. 'Omvende seg' means 'to repent' or 'to convert', usually in a religious or moral context, implying a change of heart and a turning away from previous wrongdoings. While regret can be part of repentance, 'omvende seg' is a more profound moral and spiritual transformation.

Strong regret can be expressed using adverbs like 'dypt' (deeply) or 'bittert' (bitterly) with 'angre', for example, 'Han angret dypt' or 'Hun angret bittert'. The idiom 'å angre som en hund' also conveys extreme regret.

Generally, 'angre' implies a negative outcome or a wish for a different past. While one might have second thoughts about a 'positive' decision if unforeseen negative consequences arise, the core meaning of 'angre' is tied to dissatisfaction or remorse.

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