arrepender-se in 30 Seconds
- To regret; to feel sorry about a past action or decision.
- It's a reflexive verb: always use 'me, te, se, nos, vos, se'.
- Commonly followed by 'de' + infinitive or 'de ter' + past participle.
- Expresses remorse and a wish to change the past.
- Verb Type
- Reflexive Verb
- Meaning
- The verb 'arrepender-se' in Portuguese translates to 'to regret' or 'to feel sorry' in English. It describes the feeling of remorse or disappointment about a past action or decision. This is a reflexive verb, meaning the action is directed back at the subject, indicated by the '-se' suffix. You use it when you wish you had done something differently or not done something at all.
- Usage Scenarios
- People use 'arrepender-se' in various situations, from minor personal choices to significant life decisions. For instance, someone might regret eating too much cake ('Eu me arrependi de ter comido tanto bolo'), or a more serious regret could involve a missed opportunity or a hurtful word spoken in anger ('Ele se arrependeu de ter gritado com a mãe'). It's a common way to express a desire to undo or change something from the past. The feeling of 'arrepender-se' often implies a recognition that a different choice would have led to a better outcome or avoided negative consequences. It's a natural human emotion that is frequently articulated in everyday conversations and reflections. It can be used to acknowledge mistakes, express remorse, or simply lament a decision that didn't turn out as hoped. The intensity of the regret can vary, from a mild disappointment to a profound sense of sorrow. This verb is crucial for expressing personal accountability and the learning process that comes from reflecting on past actions. It is often accompanied by phrases that indicate the object of regret, such as 'de ter feito...' (of having done...) or 'por ter dito...' (for having said...). The reflexive nature of the verb emphasizes that the feeling of regret is internal to the person experiencing it.
Ela se arrependeu de não ter estudado para a prova.
Não se arrependa de suas escolhas, aprenda com elas.
- Basic Structure
- The most common way to use 'arrepender-se' is with the preposition 'de' followed by the action or thing being regretted. This action can be expressed with an infinitive verb or a noun. The reflexive pronoun must agree with the subject.
Eu me arrependi de ter comprado aquele carro.
Translation: I regretted buying that car.
Eles se arrependem de não ter viajado mais.
Translation: They regret not having traveled more.
- Expressing Regret about Words
- You can also use 'arrepender-se' to express regret over something you said. The structure often involves 'de ter dito...' (of having said...).
Ele se arrependeu de ter dito aquilo.
Translation: He regretted having said that.
- In the Past Tense
- The most common tense used with 'arrepender-se' is the past tense (preterite or imperfect) to describe a feeling that occurred in the past. The preterite is used for a completed action of regretting, while the imperfect can describe a state of regretting over time.
Eu me arrependia todos os dias de ter deixado a faculdade.
Translation: I regretted every day of having left college.
- In the Imperative
- The imperative form is used to advise or command someone not to regret something, or to encourage them to learn from their mistakes.
Não se arrependa! Faça o seu melhor agora.
Translation: Don't regret it! Do your best now.
- Everyday Conversations
- You'll hear 'arrepender-se' frequently in everyday Portuguese conversations. People often use it to express personal feelings about past decisions, big or small. For instance, after a night out, someone might say, 'Eu me arrependi de ter bebido tanto!' (I regretted having drunk so much!). Or when discussing a missed job opportunity, 'Ele se arrependeu de não ter aceitado a oferta.' (He regretted not having accepted the offer.). It's a very natural way to reflect on one's actions and their consequences.
Ela disse que se arrependeu de ter brigado com o irmão.
- Literature and Media
- In Portuguese literature, films, and songs, 'arrepender-se' is used to convey deep emotions and character development. Authors and screenwriters use it to show a character's internal struggle, remorse, or a turning point in their life. A character might reflect on a past betrayal and say, 'Eu me arrependo profundamente de minhas ações.' (I deeply regret my actions.). This adds depth to the narrative and helps the audience connect with the characters' experiences and growth.
O protagonista se arrependia de ter deixado o amor de sua vida.
- Advice and Self-Help
- In motivational speeches, self-help books, and advice columns, you'll often find encouragement to avoid future regrets. Phrases like 'Não se arrependa do que você fez, mas do que você não fez' (Don't regret what you did, but what you didn't do) are common. The verb is used to frame discussions about learning from mistakes and living a life with fewer 'what ifs'. It's also used in contexts where people are encouraged to forgive themselves and move forward, acknowledging that regret can be a heavy burden.
O palestrante incentivou a plateia a não se arrepender de tentar.
- Legal and Ethical Discussions
- In more formal settings, like legal testimonies or ethical debates, 'arrepender-se' can be used to describe remorse for wrongdoing. A defendant might express that they 'se arrependem de seus crimes' (regret their crimes), which can be a factor in sentencing or parole. It signifies an acknowledgment of guilt and a desire for atonement, demonstrating a change of heart or perspective regarding past actions.
O criminoso disse que se arrependia de ter prejudicado tantas pessoas.
- Forgetting the Reflexive Pronoun
- One of the most common errors for learners is forgetting to use the reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, vos, se) with 'arrepender'. Since it's a reflexive verb, the action of regretting is directed back at the subject. For example, instead of saying 'Eu arrependo de...', you must say 'Eu me arrependo de...'. This applies to all persons and tenses.
Incorrect: Eu arrependo de ter dito isso.
Correct: Eu me arrependo de ter dito isso.
- Incorrect Preposition Use
- While 'de' is the most common preposition used with 'arrepender-se', learners might mistakenly use other prepositions like 'por' or 'com'. The standard and most natural construction is 'arrepender-se de'. While 'por' might be understood in some contexts, it's less idiomatic and can sound unnatural. Always aim for 'de' when expressing what you regret.
Incorrect: Nós nos arrependemos por não ter ido.
Correct: Nós nos arrependemos de não ter ido.
- Confusing with 'Arrepiar'
- The verb 'arrepender-se' (to regret) can be confused with 'arrepia' (from the verb 'arripiar'), which means 'to give goosebumps' or 'to make one's hair stand on end'. They sound similar but have completely different meanings. Ensure you are using 'arrepender-se' for expressing regret and not for physical reactions to fear or cold.
Incorrect: O filme me arrepia muito.
Correct: O filme me faz arrepender de ter assistido.
- Incorrect Verb Conjugation
- Like any verb, 'arrepender-se' needs to be conjugated correctly according to the subject and tense. Learners might use incorrect forms, especially in irregular conjugations. For example, using the infinitive 'arrepender-se' when a conjugated form is needed, or applying the wrong ending for a specific subject.
Incorrect: Nós arrepender-se de ter falado.
Correct: Nós nos arrependemos de ter falado.
- Lamentar
- 'Lamentar' also means 'to regret' or 'to lament'. It often carries a slightly more formal or poetic tone than 'arrepender-se'. While 'arrepender-se' focuses on the feeling of remorse for one's own actions, 'lamentar' can be used for expressing sorrow over a situation or misfortune, even if one is not directly responsible. For example, 'Lamento a sua perda' (I lament your loss) is more common than 'Me arrependo da sua perda'. However, 'Lamento ter feito isso' is a valid alternative to 'Me arrependo de ter feito isso', often implying a deeper sense of sorrow.
Eu me arrependi de ter dito aquilo.
Eu lamento ter dito aquilo.
- Sentir remorso
- 'Sentir remorso' literally means 'to feel remorse'. This phrase is a more direct expression of the internal feeling of guilt or regret. It's a good alternative when you want to emphasize the emotional state of guilt. 'Arrepender-se' implies feeling remorse, but 'sentir remorso' explicitly states it. For example, 'Ele sente remorso por suas ações' (He feels remorse for his actions) is a strong statement of guilt.
Depois do erro, ele passou a se arrepender.
Depois do erro, ele passou a sentir remorso.
- Pesar
- 'Pesar' can also mean 'to regret' or 'to feel sorry'. It's often used in a more formal or literary context, similar to 'lamentar'. It can express a sense of sorrow or grief over something. 'Tenho pesar por não ter te ajudado' (I have regret for not having helped you) is a more formal way of saying 'Me arrependo de não ter te ajudado'. It's less common in everyday casual speech compared to 'arrepender-se'.
Ela se arrependia de ter partido.
Ela sentia pesar por ter partido.
- Desapontamento
- 'Desapontamento' means 'disappointment'. While regret often stems from a disappointment, they are not the same. Regret implies a wish to change a past action, whereas disappointment is the feeling of sadness because something did not happen as expected. You might feel disappointment because a plan was canceled, but you might regret a decision that led to the cancellation. 'Eu me arrependi de ter cancelado o plano' (I regretted canceling the plan) is different from 'Fiquei desapontado com o cancelamento do plano' (I was disappointed with the cancellation of the plan).
Ele se arrependeu de ter brigado com o amigo.
Ele sentiu desapontamento por ter perdido o jogo.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The word 'repender' itself is related to the English word 'pendulum', both stemming from the Latin 'pendere' (to hang). So, in a way, regretting something involves 're-weighing' or 're-hanging' a past decision in one's mind.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the initial 'a' as a clear 'a' sound instead of the guttural 'r'.
- Pronouncing the 'r' too strongly, like the English 'r'.
- Not using the reflexive pronoun 'se' correctly in speech.
- Confusing the pronunciation with 'arrepia' (to give goosebumps).
Difficulty Rating
The concept of regret is universal, making it understandable. However, the reflexive nature of the verb and its specific grammatical constructions (like 'de ter feito') can pose challenges for beginners. Advanced learners will find it straightforward.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Reflexive Verbs
'Arrepender-se' requires a reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, vos, se) that agrees with the subject. Example: 'Eu me arrependo', 'Eles se arrependem'.
Preposition 'de' after verbs
Many verbs in Portuguese are followed by specific prepositions. 'Arrepender-se' typically uses 'de'. Example: 'Arrepender-se de algo'.
Infinitive after 'de'
When expressing what is regretted, an infinitive verb often follows 'de'. Example: 'Arrependo-me de comprar'.
Perfect Infinitives ('ter' + past participle)
To express regret about a completed past action, the perfect infinitive is used after 'de'. Example: 'Arrependo-me de ter comprado'.
Conjugation of 'arrepender'
Like other verbs ending in '-er', 'arrepender' has regular conjugations in most tenses, but remembering the reflexive pronouns is crucial. Example: 'Eu me arrependi', 'Nós nos arrependemos'.
Examples by Level
Eu me arrependo de não ter comido o bolo.
I regret not having eaten the cake.
Simple past tense, reflexive pronoun 'me'.
Ele se arrepende de ter falado alto.
He regrets having spoken loudly.
Simple past tense, reflexive pronoun 'se'.
Nós nos arrependemos de ter vindo.
We regret having come.
Simple past tense, reflexive pronoun 'nos'.
Você se arrepende de ter comprado isso?
Do you regret having bought this?
Simple past tense, reflexive pronoun 'se' (for 'você').
Ela se arrepende de ter saído cedo.
She regrets having left early.
Simple past tense, reflexive pronoun 'se'.
Eles se arrependem de não ter escutado.
They regret not having listened.
Simple past tense, reflexive pronoun 'se'.
Eu me arrependo de ter esquecido.
I regret having forgotten.
Simple past tense, reflexive pronoun 'me'.
Não se arrependa de tentar.
Don't regret trying.
Imperative, negative command, reflexive pronoun 'se'.
Eu me arrependi de ter falado com ele.
I regretted having spoken to him.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'me', 'de + infinitive'.
Ela se arrependeu de não ter ido à festa.
She regretted not having gone to the party.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de não ter + past participle'.
Nós nos arrependemos de ter comprado o bilhete.
We regretted buying the ticket.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'nos', 'de + infinitive'.
Você se arrepende de ter aceitado aquele trabalho?
Do you regret having accepted that job?
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'se' (for 'você'), 'de ter + past participle'.
Eles se arrependem de ter perdido a oportunidade.
They regret having lost the opportunity.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter + past participle'.
Eu me arrependo de ter sido tão impaciente.
I regret having been so impatient.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'me', 'de ter sido + adjective'.
O menino se arrependeu de ter quebrado o brinquedo.
The boy regretted having broken the toy.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter + past participle'.
Não se arrependa de seus erros, aprenda com eles.
Don't regret your mistakes, learn from them.
Imperative, negative command, reflexive pronoun 'se'.
Eu me arrependi profundamente de ter confiado nele.
I deeply regretted having trusted him.
Preterite tense with adverb, reflexive pronoun 'me', 'de ter + past participle'.
Ela se arrependeu de ter investido todo o seu dinheiro naquele negócio.
She regretted having invested all her money in that business.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter + past participle'.
Nós nos arrependemos de não ter aproveitado melhor as férias.
We regretted not having enjoyed the vacation better.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'nos', 'de não ter + past participle'.
Você se arrepende de ter desistido do seu sonho?
Do you regret having given up on your dream?
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se' (for 'você'), 'de ter + past participle'.
Eles se arrependem de ter ignorado os avisos.
They regret having ignored the warnings.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter + past participle'.
Eu me arrependo de ter dito aquelas palavras cruéis.
I regret having said those cruel words.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'me', 'de ter dito + adjective + noun'.
O artista se arrependeu de ter vendido sua obra-prima por pouco dinheiro.
The artist regretted having sold his masterpiece for little money.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter vendido + noun + prepositional phrase'.
Não se arrependa de ter sido gentil, mesmo que não tenha sido retribuído.
Don't regret having been kind, even if it wasn't reciprocated.
Imperative, negative command, reflexive pronoun 'se'.
Ele se arrependeu amargamente de ter tomado aquela decisão precipitada.
He bitterly regretted having made that hasty decision.
Preterite tense with adverb, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter tomado + adjective + noun'.
Ela se arrepende de não ter dedicado mais tempo à sua família quando podia.
She regrets not having dedicated more time to her family when she could have.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de não ter + past participle + prepositional phrase'.
Nós nos arrependemos de ter negligenciado a manutenção do equipamento.
We regretted having neglected the equipment's maintenance.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'nos', 'de ter negligenciado + noun phrase'.
Você se arrepende de ter cedido à pressão social?
Do you regret having yielded to social pressure?
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se' (for 'você'), 'de ter cedido + prepositional phrase'.
Eles se arrependem de ter subestimado a força do adversário.
They regret having underestimated the opponent's strength.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter subestimado + noun phrase'.
Eu me arrependo de ter permitido que meus medos me controlassem.
I regret having allowed my fears to control me.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'me', 'de ter permitido + infinitive'.
O político se arrependeu de ter feito promessas que não podia cumprir.
The politician regretted having made promises he couldn't keep.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter feito + noun phrase'.
Não se arrependa de ter lutado por seus ideais, mesmo que tenha sido difícil.
Don't regret having fought for your ideals, even if it was difficult.
Imperative, negative command, reflexive pronoun 'se'.
Ele se arrependeu postumamente de ter negligenciado o legado de sua família.
He posthumously regretted having neglected his family's legacy.
Preterite tense with adverb, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter negligenciado + noun phrase'.
Ela se arrepende de não ter tido a coragem de expressar seus verdadeiros sentimentos.
She regrets not having had the courage to express her true feelings.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de não ter tido + noun + de + infinitive'.
Nós nos arrependemos de ter subestimado a complexidade do projeto.
We regretted having underestimated the project's complexity.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'nos', 'de ter subestimado + noun phrase'.
Você se arrepende de ter permitido que a ambição o cegasse para as consequências?
Do you regret having allowed ambition to blind you to the consequences?
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se' (for 'você'), 'de ter permitido que + subject + infinitive'.
Eles se arrependem de ter ignorado os sinais de alerta, o que levou à catástrofe.
They regret having ignored the warning signs, which led to the catastrophe.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter ignorado + noun phrase, o que levou a...'
Eu me arrependo de ter deixado a oportunidade de crescimento pessoal passar despercebida.
I regret having let the opportunity for personal growth pass unnoticed.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'me', 'de ter deixado + noun phrase + infinitve'.
O filósofo se arrependeu de ter passado a vida buscando respostas externas em vez de internas.
The philosopher regretted having spent his life seeking external answers instead of internal ones.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter passado + noun phrase + em vez de + noun phrase'.
Não se arrependa de ter questionado o status quo, pois é assim que o progresso acontece.
Don't regret having questioned the status quo, as that's how progress happens.
Imperative, negative command, reflexive pronoun 'se'.
Ele se arrependeu, com o peso dos anos, de ter sido tão intransigente em suas convicções.
He regretted, with the weight of years, having been so intransigent in his convictions.
Preterite tense with adverbial phrase, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter sido + adjective + prepositional phrase'.
Ela se arrepende de não ter tido a perspicácia de antever as ramificações de suas ações.
She regrets not having had the foresight to anticipate the ramifications of her actions.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de não ter tido + noun + de + infinitive'.
Nós nos arrependemos de ter sucumbido à tentação da complacência, o que nos custou caro.
We regretted having succumbed to the temptation of complacency, which cost us dearly.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'nos', 'de ter sucumbido a + noun phrase, o que nos custou caro'.
Você se arrepende de ter permitido que a busca incessante por validação externa moldasse sua identidade?
Do you regret having allowed the incessant pursuit of external validation to shape your identity?
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se' (for 'você'), 'de ter permitido que + subject + infinitive + noun phrase'.
Eles se arrependem de ter desconsiderado as implicações éticas em prol do lucro imediato.
They regret having disregarded the ethical implications for the sake of immediate profit.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter desconsiderado + noun phrase + em prol de + noun phrase'.
Eu me arrependo de ter relegado a importância da introspecção em minha jornada de autodescoberta.
I regret having relegated the importance of introspection in my journey of self-discovery.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'me', 'de ter relegado + noun phrase + em + noun phrase'.
O historiador se arrependeu de ter interpretado os eventos de forma unilateral, sem considerar as nuances culturais.
The historian regretted having interpreted the events unilaterally, without considering cultural nuances.
Preterite tense, reflexive pronoun 'se', 'de ter interpretado + noun phrase + de forma + adjective + sem + infinitive'.
Não se arrependa de ter trilhado um caminho menos convencional, pois é nele que reside a verdadeira originalidade.
Don't regret having trodden a less conventional path, for it is there that true originality resides.
Imperative, negative command, reflexive pronoun 'se'.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— I regret. This is the most basic way to express personal regret.
Eu me arrependo de não ter estudado mais.
— He/She regrets. Used for third-person singular subjects.
Ele se arrepende de ter brigado.
— We regret. Used for the first-person plural subject.
Nós nos arrependemos de ter vindo.
— You (plural) regret. Used for the second-person plural subject.
Vocês se arrependem de ter tomado essa decisão?
— They regret. Used for the third-person plural subject.
Eles se arrependem de ter partido.
— Don't regret it. An imperative form used to advise someone.
Não se arrependa de ter sido gentil.
— I regret... (More formal construction).
Arrependo-me de ter dito aquelas palavras.
— He/She/It regretted... (More formal construction).
Ele se arrependeu de ter agido impulsivamente.
— It's too late to regret. Used when regret is futile.
Agora é tarde para se arrepender.
Often Confused With
This verb means 'to give goosebumps' or 'to make one's hair stand on end'. It sounds similar but has a completely different meaning. 'O filme me arrepiou' means 'The movie gave me goosebumps', not 'I regretted the movie'.
This is the adjective form, meaning 'regretful'. While related, 'arrepender-se' is the verb describing the act of regretting. 'Ele está arrependido' (He is regretful).
This is the noun form, meaning 'regret'. It's the feeling itself. 'O arrependimento o consumia.' (Regret consumed him.)
Idioms & Expressions
— To swallow one's pride and accept something unpleasant, often leading to regret later for not speaking up. It's about enduring something difficult, which can result in regret.
Tive que engolir sapos na reunião, mas agora me arrependo de não ter falado minha opinião.
Informal— To give up on something or act recklessly, often due to frustration. This action can later lead to regret.
Ele chutou o balde no trabalho e agora se arrepende de ter perdido o emprego.
Informal— To tread carefully or be very cautious, often to avoid causing offense or regret. The opposite of actions that lead to regret.
Tive que pisar em ovos para não o ofender, pois ele se arrependeria se eu o fizesse.
Informal— To fail completely or have one's efforts be in vain. This failure can often lead to regret.
Todos os nossos planos deram com os burros n'água, e agora nos arrependemos de não ter planejado melhor.
Informal— To be suspicious or uneasy about something, which might lead to regret if the suspicion proves true and action wasn't taken.
Fiquei com a pulga atrás da orelha sobre aquela proposta, e agora me arrependo de não ter investigado mais.
Informal— To not be ashamed or defeated. The opposite of someone who regrets and feels shame.
Ele agiu com coragem e não se arrepende, por isso não tem o rabo entre as pernas.
Informal— To have a lump in one's throat, often due to suppressed emotion, sadness, or regret.
Ao ver a cena, ele sentiu um nó na garganta, arrependendo-se de não ter ajudado.
Neutral— To vouch for someone or something completely, to trust implicitly. If this trust is misplaced, it can lead to regret.
Eu pus a mão no fogo por ele, mas me arrependi quando descobri a verdade.
Informal— To come to nothing; to be unsuccessful. Similar to 'dar com os burros n'água', this outcome can cause regret.
Seus esforços deram em nada, e ele se arrepende de ter perdido tanto tempo.
Informal— To make a big fuss over a small issue. While not directly regret, it relates to actions that might later be regretted for their pettiness.
Ela fez tempestade em copo d'água e agora se arrepende de ter exagerado.
InformalEasily Confused
Both 'lamentar' and 'arrepender-se' can translate to 'to regret' in English.
'Arrepender-se' is primarily used for personal remorse over one's own actions or inactions. 'Lamentar' is broader; it can express regret for one's own actions ('Lamento ter feito isso') but also sorrow or sympathy for misfortunes or situations, even if one is not directly responsible ('Lamento a sua perda'). 'Arrepender-se' is reflexive, while 'lamentar' is not always.
Eu me arrependo de ter perdido o ônibus. (I regret having missed the bus - personal action). Eu lamento a sua perda. (I am sorry for your loss - sympathy).
'Pesar' can also mean 'to regret' or 'to feel sorry'.
'Pesar' is generally more formal and literary than 'arrepender-se'. It often implies a deeper, more profound sense of sorrow or grief. While 'arrepender-se' focuses on the regret of a specific action, 'pesar' can encompass a broader feeling of sadness or melancholy about a situation. 'Arrepender-se' is always reflexive, whereas 'pesar' is not inherently so when used as a verb meaning 'to weigh'.
Ele se arrependeu de ter partido. (He regretted leaving - common). Ele sentiu pesar por ter deixado sua terra. (He felt sorrow for having left his homeland - more formal/poetic).
Regret often involves self-blame.
'Culpar-se' means 'to blame oneself'. It focuses on the act of assigning fault. 'Arrepender-se' is the emotional response that often follows self-blame; it's the feeling of remorse and the wish to undo the action. You can blame yourself for something without necessarily feeling deep regret, and you can feel regret without explicitly blaming yourself (e.g., if external factors played a large role).
Eu me culpo por ter falado alto. (I blame myself for having spoken loudly). Eu me arrependo de ter falado alto. (I regret having spoken loudly - the emotional outcome).
Disappointment can lead to regret.
'Desapontar-se' means 'to be disappointed'. It's the feeling of sadness when expectations are not met. Regret ('arrepender-se') is a more active feeling of wishing to change a past action. You can be disappointed in a situation without regretting your role in it, or you can regret an action that led to disappointment.
Eu me desapontei com o resultado. (I was disappointed with the result). Eu me arrependo de ter escolhido esse caminho, que me levou a um resultado desapontador. (I regret having chosen this path, which led me to a disappointing outcome).
Remorse is a key component of regret.
'Sentir remorso' directly translates to 'to feel remorse'. It emphasizes the feeling of guilt and the acknowledgment of wrongdoing. 'Arrepender-se' is the broader verb that encompasses this feeling of remorse and the desire to change the past. 'Sentir remorso' is more about the internal state of guilt, while 'arrepender-se' is about the action of regretting and its implications.
Ele sente remorso por ter machucado alguém. (He feels remorse for having hurt someone). Ele se arrepende de ter machucado alguém. (He regrets having hurt someone - implying a wish to undo it).
Sentence Patterns
Subject + me/te/se/nos/vos/se + arrepende(u/imos/eram) + de + infinitive
Eu me arrependo de comprar.
Subject + me/te/se/nos/vos/se + arrepende(u/imos/eram) + de ter + past participle
Ela se arrependeu de ter dito.
Subject + me/te/se/nos/vos/se + arrepende(u/imos/eram) + de + noun
Nós nos arrependemos da decisão.
Negative Imperative + se + arrepender
Não se arrepender de ter falado.
Subject + me/te/se/nos/vos/se + arrepende(u/imos/eram) + adverb + de ter + past participle
Ele se arrependeu amargamente de ter partido.
Subject + me/te/se/nos/vos/se + arrepende(u/imos/eram) + de não ter + past participle
Eles se arrependem de não ter escutado.
Subject + me/te/se/nos/vos/se + arrepende(u/imos/eram) + de ter permitido que + subject + infinitive
Eu me arrependo de ter permitido que ele entrasse.
Subject + me/te/se/nos/vos/se + arrepende(u/imos/eram) + de ter + past participle + prepositional phrase
Ela se arrepende de ter dedicado pouco tempo à família.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High
-
Forgetting the reflexive pronoun.
→
Eu me arrependo.
The verb 'arrepender-se' is reflexive, meaning the action reflects back on the subject. The pronoun (me, te, se, nos, vos, se) must always be present and agree with the subject. Saying 'Eu arrependo' is incorrect.
-
Using the wrong preposition.
→
Ela se arrepende de ter saído.
The standard and most idiomatic preposition used with 'arrepender-se' is 'de'. While 'por' might be understood, it's less natural and can sound incorrect. Stick to 'de' when expressing what you regret.
-
Confusing 'arrepender-se' with 'arripiar'.
→
Eu me arrependo de ter falado. (I regret having spoken.)
'Arripiar' means 'to give goosebumps'. 'O filme me arrepia' means 'The movie gives me goosebumps'. 'Arrepender-se' is about regret. The similar sound can be tricky, so pay attention to the context.
-
Using the infinitive 'arrepender-se' instead of a conjugated form.
→
Nós nos arrependemos de ter ido.
When the subject is 'nós', the verb must be conjugated to 'arrependemos', and the reflexive pronoun must be 'nos'. Using the infinitive form like 'Nós arrepender-se' is incorrect.
-
Using 'arrepender' without 'se' for past actions.
→
Eu me arrependi de ter comprado.
When referring to a completed past action, the structure 'de ter + past participle' is used. Saying 'Eu me arrependo de ter comprado' is correct. Saying 'Eu me arrependo de comprei' is incorrect.
Tips
Master the Reflexive Pronouns
Remember that 'arrepender-se' is always reflexive. Ensure the pronoun (me, te, se, nos, vos, se) correctly matches the subject. Forgetting this is a common mistake that makes your Portuguese sound unnatural.
Distinguish from 'Arrepiar'
The verbs 'arrepender-se' (to regret) and 'arripiar' (to give goosebumps) sound similar but have entirely different meanings. Always double-check context to avoid confusion. 'Eu me arrependo' is about feelings, 'O filme me arrepia' is about physical reactions.
Use 'de ter' + Past Participle for Past Actions
To express regret about something you did (or didn't do) in the past, the most common and idiomatic structure is 'arrepender-se de ter' + past participle. For example: 'Eu me arrependi de ter dito isso.' (I regretted having said that.)
Understand the Nuance of 'Lamentar'
While 'lamentar' can mean 'to regret', it's often used for broader sorrow or sympathy. Use 'arrepender-se' when the regret is specifically about your own past actions and you wish you could change them.
Connect to 'Repent'
The English word 'repent' shares a similar root and meaning with 'arrepender-se'. Think of 're-panting' after a bad decision, or 're-painting' a choice you wish you hadn't made. This can help solidify the meaning.
Write About Your Own Regrets (in Portuguese!)
Try writing sentences about things you genuinely regret, or hypothetical situations. This active practice will help you internalize the verb and its common structures. Start simple: 'Eu me arrependo de ter comido muito.' (I regret having eaten too much.)
Focus on the Guttural 'R'
The initial 'a' in 'arrepender-se' often has a guttural sound similar to the 'ch' in Scottish 'loch'. Practice this sound to pronounce the word more authentically.
The Role of 'de'
The preposition 'de' is crucial after 'arrepender-se'. It connects the verb to the object of regret, whether it's an infinitive verb ('de comprar'), a perfect infinitive ('de ter comprado'), or a noun ('da decisão').
Explore Related Words
Learn the noun 'arrependimento' (regret) and the adjective 'arrependido' (regretful). Understanding these related forms will enrich your vocabulary and help you express nuances of this emotion.
Use in Imperatives
The imperative form 'Não se arrependa!' (Don't regret it!) is very common as advice. It's a useful phrase for encouraging others not to dwell on past mistakes.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine you 're-pended' (re-weighed) your decision and found it was a bad one. The 'a-' at the start could be like an 'Ah, I should not have done that!' sigh of regret. The '-se' reminds you it's a personal feeling, happening *to* yourself.
Visual Association
Picture yourself standing at a crossroads, looking back at a path you took. You shake your head with a sad expression, symbolizing regret. The '-se' can be visualized as a mirror reflecting this unhappy feeling back at you.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to recall three times you felt regret. For each instance, think about what you would say in Portuguese using 'arrepender-se'. For example, 'Eu me arrependi de ter dito aquilo.' (I regretted having said that.)
Word Origin
The Portuguese verb 'arrepender-se' originates from the Latin verb 'rependere', which means 'to weigh back', 'to consider', or 'to ponder'. Over time, through Vulgar Latin and Old Portuguese, it evolved to signify the act of reconsidering a past action with regret. The 'a-' prefix often indicates a direction or intensification, and the '-se' suffix marks it as a reflexive verb.
Original meaning: To weigh back, to ponder, to reconsider.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > PortugueseCultural Context
When discussing regret, be mindful of the context. While expressing personal regret is normal, avoid sounding overly self-pitying. The focus should be on acknowledging the feeling and, ideally, the lesson learned.
In English-speaking cultures, regret is also a common emotion, expressed through phrases like 'I regret...', 'I wish I hadn't...', or 'I'm sorry I did...'. The reflexive nature of 'arrepender-se' emphasizes the internal, personal aspect of this feeling, which is similar to how regret is often perceived in English.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing past decisions
- Eu me arrependo de...
- Ela se arrependeu de ter...
- Não se arrependa de...
Reflecting on mistakes
- Arrependo-me de ter sido...
- Eles se arrependem de não ter...
- É tarde para se arrepender.
Expressing sorrow or disappointment
- Ele se arrependeu profundamente.
- Nós nos arrependemos daquela escolha.
- Arrepender-se de algo.
Giving advice
- Não se arrependa!
- Aprenda a não se arrepender.
- Viva sem se arrepender.
Talking about missed opportunities
- Me arrependo de não ter aproveitado.
- Ela se arrepende de ter perdido.
- Eles se arrependem de ter deixado passar.
Conversation Starters
"O que você mais se arrepende de ter feito na sua vida?"
"Existe algo que você fez e hoje pensa 'eu me arrependo muito disso'?"
"Se pudesse voltar no tempo, o que você faria diferente para não se arrepender?"
"Qual foi a decisão mais difícil que você tomou e se arrependeu depois?"
"Como você lida com o sentimento de arrependimento?"
Journal Prompts
Escreva sobre uma vez em que você se arrependeu de ter dito algo. Como você lidou com isso?
Liste três coisas que você fez e não se arrepende. Explique por quê.
Reflita sobre uma oportunidade perdida. Você se arrepende de não ter agido? O que você aprendeu com isso?
Escreva uma carta para seu 'eu' do passado, dizendo o que você se arrepende de ter feito e o que faria diferente.
Como o sentimento de arrependimento pode ser um professor? Dê exemplos.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, 'arrepender-se' is fundamentally a reflexive verb in Portuguese. This means it always requires a reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, vos, se) that agrees with the subject of the sentence. For example, 'Eu me arrependo', 'Você se arrepende', 'Eles se arrependem'. Omitting the pronoun is grammatically incorrect.
'Arrepender-se' is generally used for personal remorse over one's own actions or inactions, often implying a wish to undo them. 'Lamentar' can also mean 'to regret' but is broader; it can express sorrow over misfortunes or situations that are not necessarily one's fault, or it can be a more formal or poetic way to express regret for one's actions. For instance, 'Eu me arrependo de ter gritado' (I regret having shouted) is about a personal mistake, while 'Eu lamento a tragédia' (I lament the tragedy) is about sorrow for an event.
Yes, you can use 'arrepender-se' with nouns, although it's more common with verbs. The structure is 'arrepender-se de + noun'. For example, 'Ele se arrepende da decisão.' (He regrets the decision.) or 'Eu me arrependo do meu passado.' (I regret my past.)
The most common tenses used with 'arrepender-se' are the present tense (to express a current feeling of regret about past actions) and the preterite tense (to describe a specific instance of regretting in the past). For example, 'Eu me arrependo de ter falado' (I regret having spoken - present feeling) and 'Eu me arrependi de ter falado' (I regretted having spoken - past action of regretting).
You would use the negative imperative form. For 'you' (singular, informal), it's 'Não te arrependas!' or more commonly 'Não se arrependa!' (using the formal 'se' for informal contexts is very frequent). For 'you' (plural), it's 'Não se arrependam!'. A very common general phrase is simply 'Não se arrependa!' which can be used for anyone.
Yes, there is a significant difference. 'Arrepender-se de ter feito' (to regret having done) refers to a completed action in the past. 'Arrepender-se de fazer' (to regret doing/to regret to do) refers either to the act of doing something in the present that you already feel regret about, or it can sometimes imply a future regret about a present action. However, the most common and clear construction for past actions is 'de ter + past participle'.
While the primary use is for past actions, you might hear constructions that imply future regret, often in conditional or subjunctive moods. For example, 'Se você fizer isso, vai se arrepender.' (If you do that, you will regret it.) Here, 'arrepender' is in the future tense, indicating a predicted regret.
The noun form is 'arrependimento', which means 'regret' or 'remorse'. For example, 'O arrependimento tomou conta dele.' (Regret took over him.)
The adjective form is 'arrependido', meaning 'regretful'. For example, 'Ele está arrependido de suas ações.' (He is regretful of his actions.)
Yes, 'arrepia' (from 'arripiar') sounds similar but means 'to give goosebumps' or 'to make one's hair stand on end'. It's important not to confuse the two. 'O filme me arrepiou' means 'The movie gave me goosebumps', not 'I regretted the movie'.
Test Yourself 10 questions
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Arrepender-se is a reflexive verb meaning 'to regret'. It's used when you feel remorse or sorrow about a past action or decision, wishing you had done something differently. Remember to always use the correct reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, etc.) with it, typically followed by 'de' and an infinitive or past participle.
- To regret; to feel sorry about a past action or decision.
- It's a reflexive verb: always use 'me, te, se, nos, vos, se'.
- Commonly followed by 'de' + infinitive or 'de ter' + past participle.
- Expresses remorse and a wish to change the past.
Master the Reflexive Pronouns
Remember that 'arrepender-se' is always reflexive. Ensure the pronoun (me, te, se, nos, vos, se) correctly matches the subject. Forgetting this is a common mistake that makes your Portuguese sound unnatural.
Distinguish from 'Arrepiar'
The verbs 'arrepender-se' (to regret) and 'arripiar' (to give goosebumps) sound similar but have entirely different meanings. Always double-check context to avoid confusion. 'Eu me arrependo' is about feelings, 'O filme me arrepia' is about physical reactions.
Use 'de ter' + Past Participle for Past Actions
To express regret about something you did (or didn't do) in the past, the most common and idiomatic structure is 'arrepender-se de ter' + past participle. For example: 'Eu me arrependi de ter dito isso.' (I regretted having said that.)
Understand the Nuance of 'Lamentar'
While 'lamentar' can mean 'to regret', it's often used for broader sorrow or sympathy. Use 'arrepender-se' when the regret is specifically about your own past actions and you wish you could change them.
Example
Eu me arrependo de não ter estudado mais.
Related Content
More emotions words
a sério?
A2seriously?, an expression of surprise, disbelief, or to check earnestness
abalado
A2Emotionally disturbed or upset; shaken.
abalar
A2To shake or disturb (emotionally); to affect deeply.
abalo
A2Shock, emotional disturbance; a sudden, disturbing, or upsetting emotional experience.
abandonado
B1Left by the owner or inhabitants; deserted.
abatidamente
B1In a dejected or disheartened manner; dejectedly.
abatido
A2Dejected; sad and depressed; dispirited.
abatimento
A2Dejection; a sad and depressed state; low spirits.
abertamente
A2openly, frankly; without concealment; publicly.
abismado
B1Filled with astonishment or wonder.
