惋惜 in 30 Seconds
- Wǎnxī means pity or regret for lost potential or opportunities.
- It's a feeling of 'what a shame' about unfortunate outcomes.
- Used when something good is wasted or fails to reach its full potential.
- More nuanced than simple regret; implies lamenting lost value.
- Meaning
- The Chinese word 惋惜 (wǎnxī) expresses a feeling of pity or regret, often for something that could have been better, a missed opportunity, or a situation that is unfortunate. It's a nuanced emotion that acknowledges a less-than-ideal outcome and the wish that things had turned out differently. It's not a strong, overwhelming sadness, but rather a gentle sorrow or a sense of 'what a shame'.
- Usage Scenarios
- People use 惋惜 when they see something beautiful or valuable being wasted, or when a good opportunity is lost. For example, if a talented student doesn't pursue their studies further, one might feel 惋惜. Similarly, if a promising project fails due to minor issues, the outcome can be described as 惋惜. It can also be used for natural phenomena, like a beautiful sunset fading away too quickly, or for the passing of time. It often carries a sense of appreciation for what was, coupled with a gentle disappointment about its loss or failure. It is less about blame and more about the unfortunate nature of the situation. For instance, if a chef makes a minor mistake that ruins an otherwise perfect dish, the onlookers might express 惋惜. It's a common sentiment when something has potential but doesn't quite reach it, or when something good ends prematurely. The feeling is often directed towards external circumstances rather than personal fault, though it can be used self-reflectively as well. Think of it as a sigh of 'too bad' or 'what a shame' for a situation where a better outcome was possible but not realized. It can also be used when something good is destroyed or lost, like a valuable antique being broken, or a rare plant dying. The feeling is one of lamenting the loss of something good or potentially good. It's a word that captures a subtle but common human reaction to imperfection and loss. The tone is usually one of empathy or mild disappointment, rather than strong anger or grief. It suggests a recognition of value that has been diminished or lost. The word is versatile enough to apply to personal achievements, societal developments, or even abstract concepts like wasted talent. It’s a way to acknowledge that a situation could have been more favorable and to express a gentle sorrow for that reality.
看到这么好的机会就这样溜走，真让人感到惋惜。
这么好的天气，却不能出去玩，有点惋惜。
- Nuance
- The feeling of 惋惜 implies that there was potential for something better. It's a recognition of value that has been lost or diminished. It can be applied to situations ranging from a small personal disappointment to larger societal issues. For example, seeing a talented artist struggle financially might evoke 惋惜. The word is often used in contexts where one wishes things had gone differently, but without strong emotional outburst. It’s a contemplative feeling. It can also be used to express sympathy for someone else's misfortune or lost opportunity. For instance, if a friend misses out on a job promotion due to unforeseen circumstances, you might express 惋惜 for them. The key is the sense of lost potential or a less-than-ideal outcome that is deemed unfortunate.
- Basic Structure
- The most common way to use 惋惜 is as a verb or an adjective expressing the feeling. It often follows a subject that is experiencing or observing the feeling. For example, 'I feel regretful' would be '我感到惋惜' (wǒ gǎndào wǎnxī). It can also be used directly to describe a situation as regrettable, such as '这是一个令人惋惜的结果' (zhè shì yīgè lìng rén wǎnxī de jiéguǒ) - 'This is a regrettable outcome.' The particle '令人' (lìng rén) means 'to cause people to feel' or 'to make one feel', and it frequently precedes 惋惜 when describing something that elicits this feeling.
- Expressing the Feeling
- To express the feeling of 惋惜 yourself, you can use phrases like: '我觉得很惋惜' (wǒ juédé hěn wǎnxī) - 'I feel very regretful.' or simply '真可惜' (zhēn kěxī) which is a more colloquial way to say 'What a pity!' or 'It's a shame!'. While '可惜' (kěxī) is very similar and often interchangeable, 惋惜 carries a slightly more formal and deeper sense of lament for lost potential or value. You can also use it as a verb: '我们不能惋惜他的离开' (wǒmen bùnéng wǎnxī tā de líkāi) - 'We cannot lament his departure.' This usage is less common than describing a situation as 惋惜. More often, you'll see it used to describe the *thing* that causes the feeling: '他的才华就这样被埋没，真是太惋惜了' (tā de cáihuá jiù zhèyàng bèi máimò, zhēnshi tài wǎnxī le) - 'His talent being buried like this is truly too regrettable.'
- Describing Outcomes
- When describing a situation or outcome that evokes this feeling, you will often see 惋惜 used with '的' (de) as an adjective, modifying a noun. For instance: '这是一个令人惋惜的局面' (zhè shì yīgè lìng rén wǎnxī de júmiàn) - 'This is a regrettable situation.' Or: '我们对这个项目的失败感到非常惋惜' (wǒmen duì zhège xiàngmù de shībài gǎndào fēicháng wǎnxī) - 'We feel very regretful about the failure of this project.' The structure '令人惋惜' is very productive and can be applied to a wide range of unfortunate events or outcomes. Another common pattern is to state the cause of the regret: '因为...而感到惋惜' (yīnwèi... ér gǎndào wǎnxī) - 'to feel regretful because of...'. For example: '我为他错失了这次机会而感到惋惜' (wǒ wèi tā cuòshī le zhè cì jīhuì ér gǎndào wǎnxī) - 'I feel regretful for him missing this opportunity.'
- Common Sentence Patterns
- Here are some common sentence patterns:
1. Subject + 感到/觉得 + 惋惜 (Subject feels regretful).
Example: 观众们对演员的离世感到惋惜。(Guānzhòngmen duì yǎnyuán de líshì gǎndào wǎnxī.) - The audience feels regretful about the actor's passing.
2. (某事/某物) + 令人/让人 + 惋惜 (Something causes regret).
Example: 这么好的剧本被拍成这样，实在令人惋惜。(Zhème hǎo de jùběn bèi pāi chéng zhèyàng, shízài lìng rén wǎnxī.) - Such a good script being made into this is truly regrettable.
3. (某事/某物) + 是/很 + 惋惜的 (Something is regrettable).
Example: 他的才华没有得到充分发挥，是很惋惜的。(Tā de cáihuá méiyǒu dédào chōngfèn fāhuī, shì hěn wǎnxī de.) - His talent not being fully utilized is very regrettable.
4. 为 + (某人/某事) + (感到)惋惜 (Feel regretful for someone/something).
Example: 我为他曾经的努力却没有得到回报而惋惜。(Wǒ wèi tā céngjīng de nǔlì què méiyǒu dédào huíbào ér wǎnxī.) - I feel regretful for his past efforts that were not rewarded.
5. (More colloquial) 真可惜 (What a pity/shame).
Example: 这么好的机会，就这样没了，真可惜！(Zhème hǎo de jīhuì, jiù zhèyàng méi le, zhēn kěxī!) - Such a good opportunity, gone just like that, what a pity!
看到他因为一点小失误而错失比赛，我感到非常惋惜。
如此珍贵的文物被毁，真是令人惋惜。
- News and Media
- You'll frequently encounter 惋惜 in news reports, especially when discussing unfortunate events, failures, or losses. For example, a news anchor might say, '我们对这场自然灾害造成的损失感到深切的惋惜' (wǒmen duì zhè chǎng zìrán zāihài zàochéng de sǔnshī gǎndào shēnqiè de wǎnxī) - 'We feel deep regret for the losses caused by this natural disaster.' It's used to convey a sense of shared sorrow or disappointment about negative outcomes that affect a wider community or involve significant loss. This often applies to the destruction of historical sites, the collapse of promising businesses, or the premature death of public figures. The media uses it to reflect a collective sentiment of 'what a shame' for the broader public. It helps to frame events as unfortunate rather than simply factual, adding an emotional layer to the reporting. It can also be used when discussing potential that was not realized, such as a talented athlete's career ending due to injury, which the news might describe as a '令人惋惜的结局' (lìng rén wǎnxī de jiéjú) - 'a regrettable ending'.
- Conversations About Opportunities
- In everyday conversations, 惋惜 comes up when people discuss missed chances or situations where things didn't turn out as well as they could have. If a friend tells you about a job they almost got but didn't, you might reply, '啊，那真是太惋惜了！' (Ā, nà zhēnshi tài wǎnxī le!) - 'Ah, that's truly too bad!' or '我为你的遭遇感到惋惜' (wǒ wèi nǐ de zāoyù gǎndào wǎnxī) - 'I feel regretful for your experience.' This is a common way to show empathy and acknowledge the unfortunate nature of the situation. It's used when discussing career setbacks, relationship breakups that could have been salvaged, or even personal projects that didn't achieve their full potential. It's a polite and considerate way to express sympathy for someone's bad luck or a less-than-ideal outcome. You might also hear it when people reflect on their own past decisions, e.g., '我当时要是再坚持一下就好了，现在想起来真惋惜' (Wǒ dāngshí yàoshi zài jiānchí yīxià jiù hǎo le, xiànzài xiǎng qǐlái zhēn wǎnxī) - 'If only I had persisted a bit more back then, thinking about it now, it's truly regrettable.'
- Discussions on Arts and Culture
- When people discuss films, books, or performances, 惋惜 is often used to describe elements that were not fully developed or were poorly executed, thus detracting from the overall quality. For example, a critic might write, '这部电影的结尾处理得不够好，留下了一些令人惋惜的遗憾' (zhè bù diànyǐng de jiéwěi chǔlǐ dé bùgòu hǎo, liúxià le yīxiē lìng rén wǎnxī de yíhàn) - 'The ending of this movie was not handled well, leaving some regrettable regrets.' This applies to plot points that felt rushed, characters whose development was cut short, or beautiful ideas that were not explored adequately. It's a way to acknowledge the potential that was present but not fully realized, leading to a less satisfying artistic experience. It's also used when discussing the loss of cultural heritage or artistic talent. For instance, the disappearance of a traditional craft or the early death of a promising artist might be described as a '巨大的惋惜' (jùdà de wǎnxī) - 'a great pity.'
- Academic and Professional Settings
- In more formal or academic contexts, 惋惜 might be used to express disappointment over failed research, lost opportunities for collaboration, or the impractical implementation of brilliant ideas. A professor might lament, '我们未能获得足够的资金来完成这个重要的研究项目，这是一个令人惋惜的损失' (wǒmen wèi néng huòdé zúgòu de zījīn lái wánchéng zhège zhòngyào de yánjiū xiàngmù, zhè shì yīgè lìng rén wǎnxī de sǔnshī) - 'We were unable to secure sufficient funding to complete this important research project; this is a regrettable loss.' It can also be used in business contexts to describe a failed venture or a missed market opportunity that could have led to significant success. The tone remains one of regret for potential not achieved, often with an analytical undertone about why it happened. It is a way to acknowledge that, despite best efforts, certain outcomes were not achieved, and this is seen as a negative development. The word carries a sense of lost value or opportunity that is lamented.
看着那些被遗弃的古老建筑，许多人都感到惋惜。
他本该成为一名伟大的科学家，可惜英年早逝，令人惋惜。
- Confusing with '可惜' (kěxī)
- One of the most common mistakes is overusing 惋惜 when '可惜' (kěxī) would be more appropriate, or vice versa. '可惜' is a more general term for 'pity' or 'shame,' often used for minor disappointments or unfortunate occurrences. For example, '可惜今天下雨了' (kěxī jīntiān xià yǔ le) - 'It's a pity it rained today.' Here, 惋惜 would sound too strong. 惋惜 implies a deeper sense of lost potential, value, or opportunity. If a talented musician passes away young, you'd say it's 惋惜. If you missed your bus, it's 可惜. So, the key difference is the degree of lost value or potential. 惋惜 is for situations where something good or promising was lost or not realized, carrying a sense of lament. 可惜 is for general unfortunate circumstances or missed small opportunities.
- Overusing '惋惜' for Personal Fault
- While 惋惜 can be used self-reflectively, it's often misused when someone intends to express direct personal regret or self-blame. If you made a significant mistake that had severe consequences, saying '我很惋惜' (wǒ hěn wǎnxī) might sound a bit detached. In such cases, stronger words like '后悔' (hòuhuǐ - regret) or '自责' (zìzé - self-blame) might be more fitting. 惋惜 often leans towards lamenting an unfortunate situation or lost potential rather than taking direct responsibility for a fault. For example, if you failed an exam due to not studying, '我后悔没有好好复习' (wǒ hòuhuǐ méiyǒu hǎohǎo fùxí) - 'I regret not studying well' is more direct than saying '我很惋惜我考试没过' (wǒ hěn wǎnxī wǒ kǎoshì méi guò) - 'I regret I failed the exam,' which sounds more like lamenting the outcome itself rather than your role in it. The former focuses on your action, the latter on the result.
- Using it as a Direct Verb for Strong Emotions
- In some instances, learners might try to use 惋惜 as a direct verb in a way that sounds unnatural or overly formal for everyday speech. For example, saying '我惋惜他的行为' (wǒ wǎnxī tā de xíngwéi) - 'I regret his behavior' is grammatically possible but less common and might sound a bit stiff. It's more natural to say '我对他的行为感到惋惜' (wǒ duì tā de xíngwéi gǎndào wǎnxī) - 'I feel regretful about his behavior' or '他的行为真令人惋惜' (tā de xíngwéi zhēn lìng rén wǎnxī) - 'His behavior is truly regrettable.' The structure with '感到' (gǎndào - to feel) or '令人' (lìng rén - to cause people to feel) is generally preferred when expressing the feeling towards someone else's actions or a specific situation. Direct verb usage is less frequent and might imply a more formal or literary context.
- Confusing with '遗憾' (yíhàn)
- '遗憾' (yíhàn) also translates to 'regret' or 'pity,' but it often refers to a sense of incompleteness, unfulfilled wishes, or a lingering sense of something missing. While there's overlap, 惋惜 is more about lamenting lost potential or value, whereas 遗憾 can be more about an unfulfilled desire or a feeling of something not being quite right or complete. For instance, '我感到很遗憾' (wǒ gǎndào hěn yíhàn) - 'I feel regretful' can be used in many situations where 惋惜 might also fit, but 遗憾 can also express a less intense feeling of 'it's a shame that...' or 'I wish it were otherwise.' For example, '我感到很遗憾，因为我不能参加你的婚礼' (wǒ gǎndào hěn yíhàn, yīnwèi wǒ bùnéng cānjiā nǐ de hūnlǐ) - 'I feel regretful because I cannot attend your wedding.' Here, 遗憾 is more natural than 惋惜. 惋惜 is better suited for situations involving wasted talent, lost opportunities, or destroyed value. The distinction is subtle: 惋惜 emphasizes the loss of something good, while 遗憾 can cover a broader range of unfulfilled wishes and incompleteness.
他本可以成为一名优秀的学生，但因为贪玩而成绩下降，这真是惋惜。
对于那些没能实现的目标，我们感到惋惜，但我们也会继续努力。
- 可惜 (kěxī)
- Comparison: '可惜' is a very common and versatile word meaning 'pity,' 'shame,' or 'unfortunately.' It is often used for minor disappointments or unfortunate events where the sense of lost potential is not as strong as with 惋惜.
Usage of 可惜: '可惜今天天气不好。' (Kěxī jīntiān tiānqì bù hǎo.) - 'It's a shame the weather is bad today.' Here, 惋惜 would be too strong.
Usage of 惋惜: '他放弃了深造的机会，真是太惋惜了。' (Tā fàngqì le shēnzào de jīhuì, zhēnshi tài wǎnxī le.) - 'He gave up the opportunity for further study, it's truly regrettable.' This implies lost potential.
Key Difference: 可惜 is for general unfortunate circumstances, while 惋惜 implies lamenting lost value or potential. - 遗憾 (yíhàn)
- Comparison: '遗憾' means 'regret,' 'pity,' or 'a sense of incompleteness.' It often refers to unfulfilled wishes, something that is lacking, or a sense of something not being quite right. It can be more about a lingering feeling or an unfulfilled desire.
Usage of 遗憾: '我感到很遗憾，因为我无法参加你的派对。' (Wǒ gǎndào hěn yíhàn, yīnwèi wǒ wúfǎ cānjiā nǐ de pàiduì.) - 'I feel regretful because I am unable to attend your party.' This is a polite expression of inability.
Usage of 惋惜: '她本可以成为一名杰出的艺术家，但因病早逝，这是艺术界的巨大惋惜。' (Tā běn kěyǐ chéngwéi yī míng jiéchū de yìshùjiā, dàn yīn bìng zǎoshì, zhè shì yìshùjiè de jùdà wǎnxī.) - 'She could have become an outstanding artist, but passed away early due to illness; this is a great pity for the art world.' This highlights lost potential and value.
Key Difference: 遗憾 often focuses on unfulfilled desires or a sense of incompleteness, while 惋惜 emphasizes the lament for lost potential, value, or a better outcome. - 后悔 (hòuhuǐ)
- Comparison: '后悔' specifically means 'to regret' in the sense of wishing one had not done something or had done something differently, often implying personal responsibility or fault.
Usage of 后悔: '我后悔当初没有听你的建议。' (Wǒ hòuhuǐ dāngchū méiyǒu tīng nǐ de jiànyì.) - 'I regret not listening to your advice back then.' This is a direct expression of self-blame.
Usage of 惋惜: '看到他因为一次冲动而毁掉一切，我感到惋惜。' (Kàndào tā yīnwèi yīcì chōngdòng ér huǐdiào yīqiè, wǒ gǎndào wǎnxī.) - 'Seeing him ruin everything due to an impulse, I feel regretful.' Here, the speaker is lamenting the outcome of someone else's actions, not necessarily taking blame themselves.
Key Difference: 后悔 is about personal regret for one's own actions, while 惋惜 is more about lamenting an unfortunate situation or lost potential, which may or may not involve personal fault. - 痛惜 (tòngxī)
- Comparison: '痛惜' is a stronger and more intense form of regret or sorrow, often used for very significant losses, such as the death of a beloved person or the destruction of something immensely valuable. The '痛' (tòng) literally means 'pain.'
Usage of 痛惜: '我们对这位伟大的科学家的逝世表示深切的痛惜。' (Wǒmen duì zhè wèi wěidà de kēxuéjiā de shìshì biǎoshì shēnqiè de tòngxī.) - 'We express our deep sorrow for the passing of this great scientist.'
Usage of 惋惜: '这个项目失败了，虽然有点惋惜，但我们学到了很多。' (Zhège xiàngmù shībài le, suīrán yǒudiǎn wǎnxī, dàn wǒmen xuédào le hěnduō.) - 'This project failed. Although it's a bit regrettable, we learned a lot.'
Key Difference: 痛惜 conveys a much deeper, painful sorrow over a significant loss, whereas 惋惜 is a milder, more common expression of regret over lost potential or a less-than-ideal outcome. - 叹息 (tànxī)
- Comparison: '叹息' means 'to sigh' or 'to heave a sigh.' It's an expression of sorrow, disappointment, or weariness, often a physical manifestation of an emotion. While sighing can accompany feelings of 惋惜, 叹息 itself is the act of sighing, not the emotion of regret itself.
Usage of 叹息: '听到这个坏消息，他不禁叹了口气。' (Tīngdào zhège huài xiāoxī, tā bùjīn tàn le kǒuqì.) - 'Hearing this bad news, he couldn't help but sigh.'
Usage of 惋惜: '他本可以成为一名优秀的领导者，可惜没有抓住机会，真让人惋惜。' (Tā běn kěyǐ chéngwéi yī míng yōuxiù de lǐngdǎozhě, kěxī méiyǒu zhuāzhù jīhuì, zhēn ràng rén wǎnxī.) - 'He could have become an excellent leader, but unfortunately didn't seize the opportunity, which is truly regrettable.'
Key Difference: 叹息 is the physical act of sighing, often indicating sorrow or disappointment. 惋惜 is the emotion of regret over lost potential or value.
How Formal Is It?
"对于这位杰出科学家的早逝，科学界深感惋惜。"
"看到这么好的机会就这样溜走，真让人感到惋惜。"
"啊，他居然没来，太惋惜了！"
"小明没能拿到奖牌，有点惋惜。"
Fun Fact
The character 惜 (xī) itself is composed of ⺨ (related to hand or action) and সংশ্লিষ্ট (related to feeling or emotion). This suggests an active feeling of cherishing or regretting. The character 惋 (wǎn) has components related to 'tool' and 'heart', perhaps implying something that was worked on or felt deeply about but is now lost or diminished.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the 'x' sound, often replacing it with an English 'sh' or 's' sound.
- Not achieving the correct vowel sound for 'i' in 'xī', making it too open or too far back in the mouth.
- Adding an unnecessary diphthong to the vowels.
- Pronouncing it too similarly to 'wan-shi' or 'wan-shi'.
Difficulty Rating
The word itself is A2 level. However, understanding its nuanced usage in complex sentences, especially in formal or literary contexts, can push it towards B1 or B2. Recognizing the subtle differences between 惋惜, 可惜, and 遗憾 is key for higher comprehension.
Using 惋惜 correctly in writing requires understanding the context and the degree of regret. Beginners might overuse it or confuse it with 可惜. Advanced learners can use it effectively to add emotional depth and nuance to their writing.
Pronunciation of 'xī' can be challenging. More importantly, using 惋惜 in spoken conversation requires an intuitive grasp of its nuance and register. Beginners might opt for simpler phrases like '可惜'.
Distinguishing 惋惜 from similar words like 可惜 and 遗憾 in spoken Chinese can be difficult, especially in fast-paced conversations or when the speaker's tone is not clear. Context is crucial for accurate understanding.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using 感到 (gǎndào) to express emotions.
我感到高兴。(Wǒ gǎndào gāoxìng.) - I feel happy. 我感到惋惜。(Wǒ gǎndào wǎnxī.) - I feel regretful.
Using 令人 (lìng rén) or 让人 (ràng rén) to describe something that causes an emotion.
这件事令人高兴。(Zhè jiàn shì lìng rén gāoxìng.) - This matter makes people happy. 他的失败令人惋惜。(Tā de shībài lìng rén wǎnxī.) - His failure is regrettable.
Using '为...而...' (wèi... ér...) to express the reason for an emotion.
我为他的遭遇而难过。(Wǒ wèi tā de zāoyù ér nánguò.) - I am sad for his experience. 我为他错失机会而惋惜。(Wǒ wèi tā cuòshī jīhuì ér wǎnxī.) - I feel regretful for him missing the opportunity.
Using '的' (de) to turn an adjective phrase into a modifier.
这是一个令人惋惜的结果。(Zhè shì yīgè lìng rén wǎnxī de jiéguǒ.) - This is a regrettable outcome.
The use of colloquial phrases like '真可惜' (zhēn kěxī) and '太惋惜了' (tài wǎnxī le) for informal expression.
这么好的电影，居然没人看，真可惜！(Zhème hǎo de diànyǐng, jūrán méi rén kàn, zhēn kěxī!) - Such a good movie, and surprisingly no one is watching it, what a shame!
Examples by Level
看到这么好的机会就这样溜走，真让人感到惋惜。
Seeing such a good opportunity slip away like this truly makes one feel regretful.
惋惜 is used here to express a feeling of regret about a lost opportunity. '令人惋惜' (lìng rén wǎnxī) means 'makes people regretful'.
这么好的天气，却不能出去玩，有点惋惜。
Such good weather, but we can't go out to play, it's a bit of a pity.
Here, 惋惜 is used to express a mild regret about not being able to enjoy good weather due to circumstances.
他本可以成为一名优秀的学生，但因为贪玩而成绩下降，这真是惋惜。
He could have been an excellent student, but his grades dropped due to playing around; this is truly regrettable.
惋惜 is used to describe a situation where potential was not realized due to poor choices. The structure '真是惋惜' (zhēnshi wǎnxī) emphasizes the regrettable nature of the situation.
看到那些被遗弃的古老建筑，许多人都感到惋惜。
Looking at those abandoned ancient buildings, many people feel regret.
The word 惋惜 is used to express a collective feeling of regret over the neglect and decay of historical structures.
他本该成为一名伟大的科学家，可惜英年早逝，令人惋惜。
He should have become a great scientist, but unfortunately died young, which is regrettable.
Here, 惋惜 is used to lament the loss of potential due to an untimely death. '令人惋惜' (lìng rén wǎnxī) highlights the regrettable aspect of the situation.
这么好的剧本被拍成这样，实在令人惋惜。
Such a good script being made into this is truly regrettable.
This sentence expresses regret over the poor execution of a promising creative work. '令人惋惜' (lìng rén wǎnxī) is used to describe something that causes regret.
我们对这个项目的失败感到非常惋惜。
We feel very regretful about the failure of this project.
惋惜 is used here to express a collective feeling of regret for a failed endeavor. '感到惋惜' (gǎndào wǎnxī) means 'to feel regretful'.
看到他因为一次冲动而毁掉一切，我感到惋惜。
Seeing him ruin everything due to an impulse, I feel regretful.
The speaker expresses regret over the consequences of someone else's impulsive action. '感到惋惜' (gǎndào wǎnxī) indicates the speaker's feeling.
对于那些没能实现的目标，我们感到惋惜，但我们也会继续努力。
For those goals that were not achieved, we feel regretful, but we will continue to strive.
This sentence combines the feeling of regret (惋惜) for unfulfilled goals with a forward-looking attitude.
我为他曾经的努力却没有得到回报而惋惜。
I feel regretful for his past efforts that were not rewarded.
The prepositional phrase '为...而' (wèi... ér) is used to indicate the reason for feeling regretful.
如此珍贵的文物被毁，真是令人惋惜。
It is truly regrettable that such precious cultural relics were destroyed.
'令人惋惜' (lìng rén wǎnxī) is used to describe something that causes regret. '珍贵' (zhēnguì) means precious.
看到演员的精湛表演，却因技术问题未能获得应有的评价，真令人惋惜。
Seeing the actor's superb performance, but it failed to receive the recognition it deserved due to technical issues, is truly regrettable.
This sentence expresses regret over a situation where talent or effort is undermined by external factors. '精湛' (jīngzhàn) means superb, '应有的' (yīng yǒu de) means deserved.
他对环境问题的忽视，最终导致了生态的破坏，这是一个令人惋惜的教训。
His neglect of environmental issues ultimately led to ecological destruction; this is a regrettable lesson.
'忽视' (hūshì) means neglect, '生态破坏' (shēngtài pòhuài) means ecological destruction. '令人惋惜的教训' (lìng rén wǎnxī de jiàoxùn) means a regrettable lesson.
我曾以为他会成功，但事与愿违，未能实现，这让我感到惋惜。
I once thought he would succeed, but things went against my wishes and he didn't achieve it, which makes me feel regretful.
'事与愿违' (shì yǔ yuàn wéi) means things turned out contrary to one's wishes. '感到惋惜' (gǎndào wǎnxī) expresses the feeling of regret.
这么好的创意，如果能够得到更好的执行，一定会产生巨大的影响，可惜了。
Such a good idea, if it could have been executed better, would have certainly had a huge impact, what a pity.
'可惜了' (kěxī le) is a colloquial way to express 'what a pity' or 'it's a shame,' often used when potential is not realized.
我们对这次合作未能达成一致感到惋惜，但未来仍有机会。
We regret that we could not reach an agreement in this collaboration, but there are still opportunities in the future.
This sentence expresses regret over a missed opportunity for collaboration while maintaining optimism for the future. '达成一致' (dáchéng yīzhì) means to reach an agreement.
这位年轻的画家，其充满潜力的作品却因一场意外而未能公之于众，实乃艺术界的损失，令人深感惋惜。
This young painter, whose works full of potential could not be made public due to an accident, is truly a loss to the art world, deeply regrettable.
This sentence uses more formal language to express deep regret over lost artistic potential. '公之于众' (gōng zhī yú zhòng) means to make public. '实乃' (shí nǎi) is a more formal way of saying 'is'.
尽管付出了巨大的努力，但由于市场环境的变化，项目最终未能成功，这确实是一个令人惋惜的结局。
Despite tremendous effort, due to changes in the market environment, the project ultimately failed to succeed, which is indeed a regrettable outcome.
'尽管' (jǐnguǎn) means despite. '付出了巨大的努力' (fùchūle jùdà de nǔlì) means made tremendous effort. '令人惋惜的结局' (lìng rén wǎnxī de jiéjú) means a regrettable outcome.
他本有机会成为杰出的领导者，但因为一次判断失误，葬送了自己的前程，这让人感到无比惋惜。
He had the opportunity to become an outstanding leader, but due to a misjudgment, he ruined his own future; this makes people feel extremely regretful.
'判断失误' (pànduàn shīwù) means misjudgment. '葬送了' (zàngsòng le) means ruined or buried. '无比惋惜' (wúbǐ wǎnxī) means extremely regretful.
对于那些因时代变迁而消失的传统技艺，我们应该感到惋惜，并努力将其传承下去。
For those traditional skills that have disappeared due to the changes of the times, we should feel regretful and strive to pass them down.
This sentence connects the feeling of regret (惋惜) with a call to action for preservation. '时代变迁' (shídài biànqiān) means changes of the times, '传统技艺' (chuántǒng jìyì) means traditional skills.
看着这座曾经辉煌的城市如今破败不堪，我心中充满了惋惜之情。
Looking at this once glorious city now in ruins, my heart is filled with feelings of regret.
'辉煌' (huīhuáng) means glorious. '破败不堪' (pòbài bùkān) means in ruins or dilapidated. '惋惜之情' (wǎnxī zhī qíng) means feelings of regret.
许多人认为，他之所以未能达到更高的成就，是因为他过早地满足于现状，这实在令人惋惜。
Many people believe that the reason he did not achieve greater success was that he became content with his current situation too early, which is truly regrettable.
'过早地满足于现状' (guòzǎo de mǎnzú yú xiànzhuàng) means becoming content with the current situation too early. '成就' (chéngjiù) means achievement.
那段被遗忘的历史，承载着无数人的血泪与牺牲，如今却鲜为人知，真是一种巨大的惋惜。
That forgotten history, bearing the blood, tears, and sacrifices of countless people, is now little known; it is truly a great pity.
'承载着' (chéngzàizhe) means bearing or carrying. '鲜为人知' (xiǎn wéi rén zhī) means little known. '巨大的惋惜' (jùdà de wǎnxī) means a great pity.
即便经历了诸多磨难，他依然保持着乐观的态度，但最终未能克服所有困难，也难免让人感到惋惜。
Even after experiencing many hardships, he still maintained an optimistic attitude, but ultimately could not overcome all difficulties, which inevitably makes people feel regretful.
'诸多磨难' (zhūduō mónàn) means numerous hardships. '难免' (nánmiǎn) means inevitably. '感到惋惜' (gǎndào wǎnxī) expresses the feeling of regret.
这位思想家关于社会公平的深刻见解，若能得到更广泛的传播和实践，必将对人类文明产生深远影响，其未能实现，实乃一大憾事，令人扼腕。
This thinker's profound insights on social justice, if disseminated and practiced more widely, would undoubtedly have a far-reaching impact on human civilization; its failure to materialize is truly a great regret, causing one to wring their hands in sorrow.
'深刻见解' (shēnkè jiànjiě) means profound insights. '深远影响' (shēnyuǎn yǐngxiǎng) means far-reaching impact. '扼腕' (è wàn) is an idiom meaning to wring one's hands in sorrow or regret.
在那个历史的十字路口，决策者们似乎未能预见到其行为的长远后果，导致了本可避免的悲剧，这种错失良机的局面，无疑是令人深感惋惜的。
At that historical crossroads, the decision-makers seemingly failed to foresee the long-term consequences of their actions, leading to an avoidable tragedy; this situation of missed opportunities is undoubtedly deeply regrettable.
'十字路口' (shízì lùkǒu) means crossroads. '预见到' (yùjiàn dào) means to foresee. '长远后果' (chángyuǎn hòuguǒ) means long-term consequences. '错失良机' (cuòshī liángjī) means to miss a good opportunity.
尽管科技日新月异，但许多传统手工艺的精髓却面临着失传的危机，其背后蕴含的文化价值和智慧，若被遗忘，将是无法弥补的损失，令人扼腕叹息。
Despite rapid technological advancements, the essence of many traditional handicrafts faces the crisis of being lost; the cultural value and wisdom contained within them, if forgotten, will be an irreparable loss, causing one to sigh in regret.
'日新月异' (rìxīn yuèyì) means changing rapidly. '失传的危机' (shīchuán de wēijī) means the crisis of being lost (to future generations). '无法弥补的损失' (wúfǎ míbǔ de sǔnshī) means irreparable loss. '扼腕叹息' (è wàn tànxī) is a stronger expression of regret and sorrow.
这位科学家穷尽一生之力，致力于一项颠覆性的研究，却因时代局限而未能获得应有的认可，其贡献的被低估，无疑是科学史上一件令人深感惋惜的事情。
This scientist devoted their entire life to a groundbreaking research, but due to the limitations of the era, did not receive the recognition it deserved; the underestimation of their contribution is undoubtedly a deeply regrettable matter in scientific history.
'穷尽一生之力' (qióngjìn yīshēng zhī lì) means to devote one's entire life. '颠覆性的研究' (diānfù xìng de yánjiū) means groundbreaking research. '时代局限' (shídài júxiàn) means limitations of the era. '被低估' (bèi dīgū) means underestimated.
当看到一个充满希望的初创企业，因为资金链断裂而轰然倒塌时，那种对未来可能性的戛然而止的扼杀，总会让人感到一种莫名的悲凉和惋惜。
When seeing a hopeful startup collapse suddenly due to a broken cash flow, that abrupt stifling of future possibilities always makes one feel a kind of inexplicable sadness and regret.
'初创企业' (chūchuàng qǐyè) means startup company. '资金链断裂' (zījīn liàn duànliè) means broken cash flow. '轰然倒塌' (hōngrán dàotā) means to collapse suddenly. '戛然而止' (jiá rán ér zhǐ) means to stop abruptly.
那位伟大的诗人，其作品中蕴含的深邃思想和人文关怀，在那个动荡的年代未能得到充分的理解和传播，至今仍是中国文学史上的一桩憾事，令人扼腕。
The profound thoughts and humanistic care contained in the works of that great poet were not fully understood and disseminated in that turbulent era; to this day, it remains a regret in Chinese literary history, causing one to wring their hands.
'深邃思想' (shēnsuì sīxiǎng) means profound thoughts. '人文关怀' (rénwén guānhuái) means humanistic care. '动荡的年代' (dòngdàng de niándài) means turbulent era. '一桩憾事' (yī zhuāng hànshì) means a regrettable matter.
我们之所以要铭记历史，正是因为其中充满了无数令人扼腕的悲剧和错失的良机，而这些教训，是通往未来的宝贵财富。
The reason we must remember history is precisely because it is full of countless regrettable tragedies and missed opportunities, and these lessons are valuable assets for the future.
'铭记历史' (míngjì lìshǐ) means to remember history. '错失的良机' (cuòshī de liángjī) means missed good opportunities. '通往未来的宝贵财富' (tōngwǎng wèilái de bǎoguì cáifù) means valuable assets for the future.
即使在最黑暗的时刻，他也从未放弃对真理的追求，然而，最终未能看到自己理想的实现，这无疑是他人生中最大的遗憾，也是旁观者深感惋惜之处。
Even in the darkest moments, he never gave up his pursuit of truth; however, he ultimately did not live to see his ideals realized, which is undoubtedly the greatest regret of his life, and something that observers deeply lament.
'真理的追求' (zhēnlǐ de zhuīqiú) means pursuit of truth. '理想的实现' (lǐxiǎng de shíxiàn) means realization of ideals. '旁观者' (pángguānzhě) means observers. '惋惜之处' (wǎnxī zhī chù) means the aspect that is regrettable.
那个时代的政治格局，使得许多极具潜力的改革举措，在萌芽阶段便被扼杀，未能惠及后世，其历史性的错失，至今仍令史学界扼腕。
The political landscape of that era caused many reform initiatives with immense potential to be stifled in their nascent stages, failing to benefit future generations; this historical missed opportunity continues to make historians wring their hands in regret.
'政治格局' (zhèngzhì géjú) means political landscape. '改革举措' (gǎigé jǔcuò) means reform initiatives. '萌芽阶段' (méngyá jiēduàn) means nascent stages. '惠及后世' (huìjí hòushì) means to benefit future generations. '史学界' (shǐxuéjiè) means the historical community.
即便他以非凡的洞察力预见了文明的走向，其关于如何规避未来危机的警示，却因当时人们的短视和傲慢而被漠视，这种对智慧的辜负，是人类文明进程中一个无法挽回的损失，令人痛惜。
Even though he foresaw the direction of civilization with extraordinary insight, his warnings on how to avert future crises were ignored due to the shortsightedness and arrogance of the time; this betrayal of wisdom is an irretrievable loss in the progress of human civilization, causing deep sorrow.
'非凡的洞察力' (fēifán de dòngchálì) means extraordinary insight. '规避未来危机' (guībì wèilái wēijī) means to avert future crises. '短视和傲慢' (duǎnshì hé àomàn) means shortsightedness and arrogance. '辜负' (gūfù) means to betray or fail to live up to. '无法挽回的损失' (wúfǎ wǎnhuí de sǔnshī) means irretrievable loss. '痛惜' (tòngxī) implies deep sorrow.
那个时代对科学的压制，导致了无数天才的才华被埋没，其对人类文明进步的阻碍，其深远影响至今仍难以估量，无疑是历史长河中一笔沉重的、令人扼腕的注脚。
The suppression of science in that era caused the talents of countless geniuses to be buried; the obstruction it caused to the progress of human civilization, its far-reaching impact still difficult to estimate today, is undoubtedly a heavy and regrettable footnote in the long river of history.
'压制' (yāzhì) means suppression. '才华被埋没' (cáihuá bèi máimò) means talent was buried. '阻碍' (zǔ'ài) means obstruction. '难以估量' (nányǐ gūliàng) means difficult to estimate. '历史长河' (lìshǐ chánghé) means the long river of history.
他所提出的关于生态平衡的理论，超前于时代甚多，以至于当时无人能理解其精髓，从而未能得到应有的重视和发展，这对于我们今天面临的严峻环境挑战而言，是一个何其令人扼腕的悲剧。
His theory on ecological balance was far ahead of its time, to the extent that no one could understand its essence at the time, thus it failed to receive due attention and development. For the severe environmental challenges we face today, this is indeed a tragedy that makes one wring their hands in regret.
'超前于时代' (chāoqián yú shídài) means ahead of its time. '精髓' (jīngsuǐ) means essence. '严峻环境挑战' (yánjùn huánjìng tiǎozhàn) means severe environmental challenges. '何其令人扼腕的悲剧' (héqí lìng rén è wàn de bēijù) means what a regrettable tragedy.
看着那些承载着民族记忆的古老村落，因城市化进程而逐渐消亡，其独特的文化肌理和生活方式的不可逆转的消逝，是一种深刻的文化损失，令无数关心传统的人士深感惋惜。
Watching those ancient villages, which carry the memory of the nation, gradually disappear due to urbanization, the irreversible loss of their unique cultural fabric and way of life is a profound cultural loss, deeply lamented by countless people concerned with tradition.
'承载着民族记忆' (chéngzàizhe mínzú jìyì) means carrying the memory of the nation. '城市化进程' (chéngshìhuà jìnchéng) means urbanization process. '文化肌理' (wénhuà jīlǐ) means cultural fabric. '不可逆转的消逝' (bùkě nìzhuǎn de xiāoshì) means irreversible disappearance.
他的才华如同划破夜空的流星，短暂而耀眼，但终究未能抵达预设的星辰大海，其早逝的命运，不仅是个人和家庭的悲剧，更是文化艺术界的一大损失，令人痛惜。
His talent was like a meteor streaking across the night sky, brief and dazzling, but ultimately failed to reach the predetermined sea of stars; his fate of an early death is not only a tragedy for himself and his family but also a great loss to the world of culture and art, causing deep sorrow.
'划破夜空的流星' (huà pò yèkōng de liúxīng) means a meteor streaking across the night sky. '星辰大海' (xīngchén dàhǎi) is a metaphor for grand ambitions or vast potential. '早逝的命运' (zǎoshì de mìngyùn) means fate of an early death. '痛惜' (tòngxī) implies deep sorrow.
在那个信息相对闭塞的年代，许多具有划时代意义的科学发现，因未能及时有效地传达给公众，而错失了引发更广泛社会变革的契机，这种无形中的损失，是历史学研究中一个值得深思和惋惜的方面。
In that era of relatively closed information, many scientific discoveries of epoch-making significance missed the opportunity to trigger broader social change because they were not communicated to the public in a timely and effective manner. This intangible loss is an aspect worthy of deep reflection and regret in historical research.
'信息相对闭塞' (xìnxī xiāngduì bìsè) means relatively closed information. '划时代意义' (huà shídài yìyì) means epoch-making significance. '引发更广泛社会变革的契机' (yǐnfā gèng guǎngfàn shèhuì biàngé de qìjī) means the opportunity to trigger broader social change. '无形中的损失' (wúxíng zhōng de sǔnshī) means intangible loss.
尽管他凭借其卓越的才华和不懈的努力，在各自领域取得了辉煌成就，但回望其一生，总有一些看似微不足道的选择，最终导致了某些宝贵机会的旁落，这便是人生中难以避免的、令人深思的惋惜。
Although he achieved brilliant successes in his respective fields through his outstanding talent and unremitting efforts, looking back on his life, there were always some seemingly insignificant choices that ultimately led to the passing of certain precious opportunities; this is the unavoidable and thought-provoking regret in life.
'卓越的才华' (zhuóyuè de cáihuá) means outstanding talent. '不懈的努力' (bùxiè de nǔlì) means unremitting efforts. '旁落' (pángluò) means to fall to the side, to be missed. '令人深思的惋惜' (lìng rén shēnsī de wǎnxī) means thought-provoking regret.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— What a pity! It's a shame! This is a more colloquial and general expression of regret or disappointment.
这么好的机会，就这样错过了，真可惜！(Zhème hǎo de jīhuì, jiù zhèyàng cuòguò le, zhēn kěxī!) - Such a good opportunity, missed just like that, what a pity!
— Regrettable; something that causes pity or regret. This phrase is used to describe a situation or event that is unfortunate.
看到他因为一点小错误而失败，真是令人惋惜。(Kàndào tā yīnwèi yīdiǎn xiǎo cuòwù ér shībài, zhēnshi lìng rén wǎnxī.) - Seeing him fail because of a small mistake is truly regrettable.
— To feel regretful; to feel pity. This phrase expresses the personal emotion of regret.
我对他的遭遇感到十分惋惜。(Wǒ duì tā de zāoyù gǎndào shífēn wǎnxī.) - I feel very regretful about his experience.
— To deeply regret; to feel profound pity. This indicates a stronger level of regret than just '感到惋惜'.
我们对这次合作的失败深感惋惜。(Wǒmen duì cì cì hézuò de shībài shēn gǎn wǎnxī.) - We deeply regret the failure of this collaboration.
— Too bad! It's such a pity! This is an informal and emphatic way to express regret.
他本来很有前途，却因为懒惰而一事无成，太惋惜了！(Tā běnlái hěn yǒu qiántú, què yīnwèi lánduò ér yīshì wúchéng, tài wǎnxī le!) - He originally had a great future, but achieved nothing due to laziness, it's too bad!
— To feel regretful for someone or something. This structure specifies the object of the regret.
我为他错失了这次宝贵的机会而感到惋惜。(Wǒ wèi tā cuòshī le zhè cì bǎoguì de jīhuì ér gǎndào wǎnxī.) - I feel regretful for him missing this precious opportunity.
— To express regret or pity. This is often used in more formal contexts, like in speeches or official statements.
发言人对事故的发生表示了惋惜。(Fāyán rén duì shìgù de fāshēng biǎoshì le wǎnxī.) - The spokesperson expressed regret over the occurrence of the accident.
— Historical regret; a regret from a historical perspective. This refers to missed opportunities or unfortunate events in history.
未能及时采取行动，是历史的惋惜。(Wèi néng jíshí cǎiqǔ xíngdòng, shì lìshǐ de wǎnxī.) - Failing to take timely action is a historical regret.
— Pointless regret; futile regret. This refers to feeling regret over something that cannot be changed or that is not worth regretting.
对无法改变的事情感到无谓的惋惜毫无意义。(Duì wúfǎ gǎibiàn de shìqíng gǎndào wúwèi de wǎnxī háo wú yìyì.) - Feeling pointless regret over things that cannot be changed is meaningless.
— Regret that makes one wring their hands; deep, profound regret. This is a more literary and intense expression of regret.
看到如此精妙的设计因预算问题而搁浅，真是扼腕的惋惜。(Kàndào rúcǐ jīngmiào de shèjì yīn yùsuàn wèntí ér gēqiǎn, zhēnshi èwàn de wǎnxī.) - Seeing such an ingenious design shelved due to budget issues is truly a regret that makes one wring their hands.
Often Confused With
Often interchangeable in casual speech for minor disappointments, but 惋惜 implies a deeper sense of lost potential or value.
Similar to regret, but 遗憾 often focuses on unfulfilled wishes or a sense of incompleteness, whereas 惋惜 is more about lamenting lost potential or value.
Specifically refers to regretting one's own actions or inactions, implying personal responsibility, while 惋惜 can be about external situations or someone else's misfortune.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally 'draw a cake to satisfy hunger.' This idiom refers to unrealistic promises or plans that cannot be fulfilled, leading to a sense of disappointment or regret when they are revealed to be empty. It relates to 惋惜 in the context of wasted potential or unfulfilled expectations.
他的宏伟计划听起来很诱人，但实际上只是画饼充饥。(Tā de hóngwěi jìhuà tīng qǐlái hěn yòurén, dàn shíjì shang zhǐshì huà bǐng chōng jī.) - His grand plan sounds tempting, but in reality, it's just drawing a cake to satisfy hunger.
Idiomatic/Figurative— Literally 'spilt water is hard to retrieve.' This idiom signifies that once something is done or said, it cannot be undone, and the consequences are irreversible. It often implies a sense of regret for past actions or decisions, aligning with the feeling of 惋惜 for what cannot be changed.
我为我当初的冲动决定感到后悔，但覆水难收。(Wǒ wèi wǒ dāngchū de chōngdòng juédìng gǎndào hòuhuǐ, dàn fù shuǐ nán shōu.) - I regret my impulsive decision back then, but spilt water is hard to retrieve.
Idiomatic/Figurative— Literally 'mend the pen after the sheep is lost.' This idiom suggests taking action to fix a problem after a loss has occurred, implying that it's better late than never, but also acknowledging the initial loss. The act of 'mending' can be seen as an attempt to mitigate regret, but the initial loss is something one might 惋惜.
虽然现在才开始学习，但亡羊补牢，为时未晚。(Suīrán xiànzài cái kāishǐ xuéxí, dàn wáng yáng bǔ láo, wéi shí wèi wǎn.) - Although I'm only starting to study now, it's better late than never (mending the pen after the sheep is lost).
Idiomatic/Figurative— To regret something too late to do anything about it. This idiom perfectly encapsulates the feeling of 惋惜 when an opportunity has passed and cannot be recovered, leading to profound regret.
他错失了投资良机，如今追悔莫及。(Tā cuòshī le tóuzī liángjī, rújīn zhuīhuǐ mò jí.) - He missed the excellent investment opportunity and now regrets it too late.
Idiomatic/Formal— Literally 'boiling beans with beanstalks.' This idiom refers to internal strife or conflict within a family or group, where people harm each other. It often carries a sense of regret and pity for the destruction caused by such conflicts, aligning with the sentiment of 惋惜 for wasted potential or damaged relationships.
兄弟之间不应互相残害，否则只会煮豆燃萁，令人痛心。(Xiōngdì zhī jiān bù yìng hùxiāng cánhài, fǒuzé zhǐ huì zhǔ dòu rán qí, lìng rén tòngxīn.) - Brothers should not harm each other, otherwise it will only be like boiling beans with beanstalks, which is heartbreaking.
Idiomatic/Literary— To let a good opportunity slip by without taking action. This directly describes a situation that would evoke 惋惜, as it's about a missed chance and lost potential.
他因为犹豫不决而坐失了良机。(Tā yīnwèi yóuyù bù jué ér zuò shī le liáng jī.) - He missed the good opportunity due to indecisiveness.
Idiomatic/Formal— To watch helplessly as something happens, often something negative or regrettable. This phrase describes the passive experience of witnessing a loss or unfortunate event, which can lead to feelings of 惋惜.
他眼睁睁看着自己心爱的作品被毁。(Tā yǎn zhēng zhēng kànzhe zìjǐ xīn'ài de zuòpǐn bèi huǐ.) - He watched helplessly as his beloved work was destroyed.
Idiomatic/Neutral— Literally 'to let it flow east.' It means to waste something completely, to let efforts or resources go to waste without any result. This directly relates to the concept of wasted potential and is a situation that would evoke 惋惜.
他的所有努力都付之东流了。(Tā de suǒyǒu nǔlì dōu fù zhī dōng liú le.) - All his efforts have gone to waste.
Idiomatic/Formal— Literally 'the lesson of the preceding cart.' It refers to learning from the mistakes of others. While not directly expressing regret, understanding past mistakes that led to unfortunate outcomes (which others might 惋惜) is crucial for avoiding future regrets.
我们应该以前车之鉴，避免重蹈覆辙。(Wǒmen yīnggāi yǐ qián chē zhī jiàn, bìmiǎn chóng dǎo fùzhé.) - We should learn from the lessons of the past and avoid repeating the same mistakes.
Idiomatic/Formal— Literally 'to fail to complete the ramp for a mound by the last basket of earth.' It means to fall short of success at the very end due to a final lapse. This is a classic scenario for feeling 惋惜 due to near-success and final failure.
他本已接近成功，却因最后一步的失误而功亏一篑。(Tā běn yǐ jiējìn chénggōng, què yīn zuìhòu yībù de shīwù ér gōng kuī yī kuì.) - He was close to success, but failed at the last step, falling short.
Idiomatic/FormalEasily Confused
Both words express a sense of pity or regret.
惋惜 carries a stronger connotation of lamenting lost potential, value, or a better outcome that was possible but not realized. 可惜 is more general and can be used for minor disappointments or unfortunate circumstances without necessarily implying significant lost potential. For example, '可惜下雨了' (It's a pity it rained) uses 可惜. But '他放弃了学业，真惋惜' (He gave up his studies, it's truly regrettable) uses 惋惜 because of the lost potential.
他没能拿到奖学金，真可惜。(Tā méi néng ná dào jiǎngxuéjīn, zhēn kěxī.) - He couldn't get the scholarship, what a pity. / 看到他因为生病而无法继续学业，我感到很惋惜。(Kàndào tā yīnwèi shēngbìng ér wúfǎ jìxù xuéyè, wǒ gǎndào hěn wǎnxī.) - Seeing him unable to continue his studies due to illness, I feel very regretful.
Both words relate to regret and disappointment.
遗憾 often implies an unfulfilled wish, a sense of incompleteness, or a feeling that something is not quite right or could have been better. It can also be a polite way to express inability to do something. 惋惜 specifically focuses on lamenting lost potential, wasted talent, or unfortunate outcomes where something good or valuable has been diminished or lost. For example, '我感到遗憾，因为我不能参加你的生日派对' (I feel regretful because I cannot attend your birthday party) uses 遗憾. '他本可以成为伟大的音乐家，可惜英年早逝，令人惋惜' (He could have become a great musician, but unfortunately died young, which is regrettable) uses 惋惜 to express the lament for lost potential.
对这次未能合作成功，我深感遗憾。(Duì cì cì wèi néng hézuò chénggōng, wǒ shēn gǎn yíhàn.) - I deeply regret that this collaboration was not successful. / 这么好的剧本没有被拍出来，真是太惋惜了。(Zhème hǎo de jùběn méiyǒu bèi pāi chūlái, zhēnshi tài wǎnxī le.) - Such a good script not being made into a movie is truly a pity.
All these words relate to negative feelings about past events.
后悔 specifically means to regret one's own actions or inactions, implying personal responsibility and a desire to change what one did. 惋惜 is more about lamenting an unfortunate situation or lost potential, which may or may not involve personal fault. One typically feels 后悔 about their own mistakes, whereas one feels 惋惜 about a situation's unfortunate outcome, whether caused by oneself or others. For example, '我后悔没有听你的建议' (I regret not listening to your advice) uses 后悔. '看到他因为一次冲动而毁掉一切，我感到惋惜' (Seeing him ruin everything due to an impulse, I feel regretful) uses 惋惜 to express lament for the consequence of someone else's action.
他后悔自己当初的决定。(Tā hòuhuǐ zìjǐ dāngchū de juédìng.) - He regrets his decision back then. / 看到他因为一次失误而失去了冠军，我感到惋惜。(Kàndào tā yīnwèi yī cì shīwù ér shīqù le guànjūn, wǒ gǎndào wǎnxī.) - Seeing him lose the championship due to one mistake, I feel regretful.
Both express regret and sorrow.
痛惜 is a much stronger and more intense form of regret, often involving deep sorrow or pain, typically used for very significant losses like the death of a beloved person, the destruction of invaluable heritage, or the loss of immense talent. 惋惜 is a milder, more common expression of regret over lost potential or a less-than-ideal outcome. For instance, '痛惜这位伟大的艺术家英年早逝' (Deeply lamenting the untimely death of this great artist) is appropriate. '这个项目失败了，有点惋惜' (This project failed, it's a bit regrettable) uses 惋惜 for a less severe loss.
我们对这位英雄的牺牲表示深切的痛惜。(Wǒmen duì zhè wèi yīngxióng de xīshēng biǎoshì shēnqiè de tòngxī.) - We express our deep sorrow for the sacrifice of this hero. / 看到他因为小失误而错失比赛，我感到惋惜。(Kàndào tā yīnwèi xiǎo shīwù ér cuòshī bǐsài, wǒ gǎndào wǎnxī.) - Seeing him miss the competition due to a small mistake, I feel regretful.
Both relate to negative emotions and can be expressed together.
叹息 means 'to sigh' or 'to heave a sigh.' It is the physical expression of sorrow, disappointment, or weariness. 惋惜 is the emotion of regret itself. One might sigh (叹息) because they feel regret (惋惜), but they are not the same. For example, '听到这个消息，他叹了口气' (Hearing this news, he sighed) describes the action. '他为自己错失的机会感到惋惜' (He feels regretful for the opportunity he missed) describes the emotion.
听到这个坏消息，他不禁叹息。(Tīngdào zhège huài xiāoxī, tā bùjīn tànxī.) - Hearing this bad news, he couldn't help but sigh. / 他为自己没有坚持下去而惋惜。(Tā wèi zìjǐ méiyǒu jiānchí xiàqù ér wǎnxī.) - He regrets not persisting.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 感到 + 惋惜
我感到惋惜。(Wǒ gǎndào wǎnxī.)
真 + 可惜
真可惜！(Zhēn kěxī!)
令人 + 惋惜
令人惋惜。(Lìng rén wǎnxī.)
太 + 惋惜 + 了
太惋惜了！(Tài wǎnxī le!)
为 + [someone/something] + 而 + 感到 + 惋惜
我为他而感到惋惜。(Wǒ wèi tā ér gǎndào wǎnxī.)
Subject + 对 + [event/situation] + 感到 + 惋惜
我们对这次失败感到惋惜。(Wǒmen duì cì cì shībài gǎndào wǎnxī.)
[Thing/Event] + 是 + 很/非常 + 惋惜的
这是很惋惜的。(Zhè shì hěn wǎnxī de.)
深感 + 惋惜
我们深感惋惜。(Wǒmen shēn gǎn wǎnxī.)
Word Family
Related
How to Use It
Medium. While 可惜 is more frequent, 惋惜 is common enough to be considered a core vocabulary word for learners.
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Using '惋惜' for minor daily inconveniences.
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Use '可惜' (kěxī) for minor issues.
For example, if it rains on your day off, you would say '真可惜' (zhēn kěxī - what a pity), not '真惋惜' (zhēn wǎnxī), which sounds too strong and implies a significant loss of potential.
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Pronouncing 'xī' as 'shee' or 'see'.
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Pronounce 'xī' with the tongue near the roof of the mouth, creating a sound between 'sh' and 's', followed by 'ee'.
The 'x' sound in Mandarin is a palatal fricative. English speakers often substitute it with sounds they are familiar with, like 'sh' or 's', which distorts the word.
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Confusing 惋惜 with 后悔 (hòuhuǐ) when talking about personal mistakes.
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Use '后悔' when you are regretting your own actions or inactions.
'后悔' implies personal responsibility for a mistake. '惋惜' is more about lamenting an unfortunate outcome or lost potential, which may or may not be your fault. For example, '我后悔没听你的话' (I regret not listening to you) vs. '看到他因为失误而失败，我感到惋惜' (Seeing him fail due to a mistake, I feel regretful).
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Using 惋惜 where 遗憾 (yíhàn) is more appropriate.
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Use '遗憾' for unfulfilled wishes or a sense of incompleteness.
'遗憾' often expresses a softer regret about something not happening as hoped, like missing an event. '惋惜' is for lamenting lost potential or value. For example, '我遗憾不能参加派对' (I regret I can't attend the party) is more natural than using 惋惜.
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Overusing '令人惋惜' (lìng rén wǎnxī) in casual conversation.
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Use simpler expressions like '真可惜' (zhēn kěxī) or '太惋惜了' (tài wǎnxī le) in informal settings.
'令人惋惜' is slightly more formal and descriptive. In casual chat, more direct and common phrases are preferred.
Tips
Mastering the 'xī' sound
The 'x' in 惋惜 (wǎnxī) is a palatal sound, not found in English. Try to place the tip of your tongue behind your lower teeth and the middle of your tongue close to the roof of your mouth, then say 'ee'. It's like a very soft 'shee' sound. Practice saying 'xī' repeatedly.
Visual Association for 惋惜
Imagine a wilting flower. It was once beautiful and full of life (potential), but now it's fading. This loss of beauty and life evokes a feeling of regret and sadness – that's 惋惜.
Common Structures with 惋惜
Pay attention to common patterns like '感到惋惜' (to feel regretful), '令人惋惜' (regrettable), and '为...而惋惜' (to feel regretful for...). Using these structures will help you form natural-sounding sentences.
Appreciating Lost Potential
In Chinese culture, there's a strong emphasis on talent and effort. Therefore, seeing potential unfulfilled often evokes a sense of 惋惜. Understanding this cultural value can help you grasp the nuance of the word.
Create Your Own Scenarios
Think of situations in movies, books, or your own life where 惋惜 would be the appropriate emotion. Write down a few sentences describing these scenarios to solidify your understanding.
Synonym Spectrum
Learn the subtle differences between 惋惜, 可惜, 遗憾, and 后悔. Understanding their specific nuances will help you choose the most precise word for your intended meaning.
Listen and Repeat
Find audio recordings of 惋惜 and repeat after them. Focus on the intonation and rhythm as well as the individual sounds. Mimicking native speakers is a great way to improve pronunciation.
Distinguishing Verb vs. Adjective Use
While 惋惜 can sometimes function as a verb in more literary contexts, it's more commonly used as part of a descriptive phrase (e.g., '令人惋惜') or to describe a state ('感到惋惜'). Avoid using it as a direct transitive verb like 'I regret X' in casual speech.
Avoid Overuse of 惋惜
While 惋惜 is a useful word, don't overuse it. For everyday minor disappointments, 可惜 is often more suitable. Reserve 惋惜 for situations where there's a genuine sense of lost potential or significant misfortune.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'wan' (like 'want') and 'xi' (like 'she'). You 'want' something you 'she' (she) lost, and that makes you feel regretful. Or, imagine 'wan-shi' (one thing) that you regret. You lost 'one thing' and feel sad.
Visual Association
Imagine a beautiful, vibrant flower (representing potential or something valuable) that is wilting and falling apart. The wilting flower evokes a feeling of sadness and regret for its lost beauty and life. The sound 'wǎn-xī' could sound like 'wan-see', as in you 'wan-see' it not wilt, but it did.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe a situation from your own life where you felt 惋惜. It could be a missed opportunity, a talent not pursued, or something valuable that was lost. Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) using the word 惋惜.
Word Origin
The word 惋惜 (wǎnxī) is a compound word formed by combining two characters: 惋 (wǎn) and 惜 (xī). The character 惜 (xī) is the primary contributor to the meaning of regret or pity. It means to cherish, to treasure, or to regret. The character 惋 (wǎn) historically had meanings related to playing or amusement, but in this compound, it contributes to the sense of lamenting something that was perhaps enjoyable or valuable and is now lost. The combination suggests a regret for something that was good or had potential, which is now gone.
Original meaning: The core meaning comes from 惜 (xī) which means 'to regret' or 'to cherish'. 惋 (wǎn) adds a nuance related to lamenting the loss of something that could have been enjoyable or valuable.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
The word 惋惜 is generally used in a respectful and empathetic manner. It is not typically used to express harsh criticism or blame, but rather to lament an unfortunate situation or lost potential. It's a way to show understanding and shared disappointment.
In English-speaking cultures, similar sentiments are expressed using phrases like 'what a shame,' 'it's a pity,' 'that's regrettable,' or 'a missed opportunity.' The nuance of 惋惜, however, often carries a slightly deeper sense of lament for lost potential or value.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing failed projects or businesses.
- 令人惋惜的失败 (lìng rén wǎnxī de shībài)
- 项目未能成功，真是太惋惜了。(Xiàngmù wèi néng chénggōng, zhēnshi tài wǎnxī le.)
- 我们对这次失败深感惋惜。(Wǒmen duì cì cì shībài shēn gǎn wǎnxī.)
Talking about missed personal opportunities (career, education, relationships).
- 错失良机，令人惋惜。(Cuòshī liángjī, lìng rén wǎnxī.)
- 我为自己当初的犹豫感到惋惜。(Wǒ wèi zìjǐ dāngchū de yóuyù gǎndào wǎnxī.)
- 那是一个宝贵的机会，现在想起来真惋惜。(Nà shì yīgè bǎoguì de jīhuì, xiànzài xiǎng qǐlái zhēn wǎnxī.)
Lamenting the loss of talent or potential.
- 英年早逝，令人惋惜。(Yīngnián zǎoshì, lìng rén wǎnxī.)
- 他的才华就这样被埋没，太惋惜了。(Tā de cáihuá jiù zhèyàng bèi máimò, tài wǎnxī le.)
- 我们为失去这样的人才感到惋惜。(Wǒmen wèi shīqù zhèyàng de réncái gǎndào wǎnxī.)
Discussing the destruction of cultural heritage or natural beauty.
- 珍贵文物的损毁，令人惋惜。(Zhēnguì wénwù de sǔnhuǐ, lìng rén wǎnxī.)
- 看到古迹被破坏，我感到非常惋惜。(Kàndào gǔjì bèi pòhuài, wǒ gǎndào fēicháng wǎnxī.)
- 自然风光的消失，是巨大的惋惜。(Zìrán fēngguāng de xiāoshī, shì jùdà de wǎnxī.)
Expressing sympathy for someone's misfortune.
- 听到你的遭遇，我感到很惋惜。(Tīngdào nǐ de zāoyù, wǒ gǎndào hěn wǎnxī.)
- 我为你的情况感到惋惜。(Wǒ wèi nǐ de qíngkuàng gǎndào wǎnxī.)
- 这件事真让人感到惋惜。(Zhè jiàn shì zhēn ràng rén gǎndào wǎnxī.)
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever felt regret over a decision you made?"
"What's something you think is a real shame when it happens?"
"If you could go back in time to change one thing, what would it be and why?"
"What kind of opportunities do you think are most important to seize?"
"When do you think it's appropriate to feel regret or pity?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on a time you felt 惋惜. Describe the situation, what was lost or not achieved, and how it made you feel.
Think about a talented person you know or have heard about who didn't reach their full potential. Why do you think this happened, and how does it make you feel?
Consider the concept of 'wasted potential'. What does it mean to you, and how can we avoid it in our own lives and in society?
Describe a situation where you witnessed something beautiful or valuable being destroyed or neglected. What emotions did it evoke in you?
How do you balance acknowledging past regrets with moving forward and making new opportunities?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsWhile both express pity or regret, 惋惜 implies a deeper sense of lament for lost potential, value, or a better outcome that was possible but not realized. 可惜 is more general and can be used for minor disappointments or unfortunate circumstances. Think of 惋惜 as 'it's truly regrettable' for something significant, and 可惜 as 'what a shame' or 'it's a pity' for less impactful situations.
Yes, but it's less common than using '后悔' (hòuhuǐ) for direct personal blame. 惋惜 is often used when lamenting the outcome of one's own actions or inactions, focusing more on the loss of potential or the unfortunate result rather than the act of regretting the behavior itself. For instance, '我为自己当初的犹豫感到惋惜' (I feel regretful for my indecisiveness back then) is acceptable, but '我后悔当初的犹豫' (I regret my indecisiveness back then) is more direct about personal fault.
Use 惋惜 when you want to emphasize the lament for lost potential, wasted talent, or an unfortunate outcome where something good or valuable was diminished or lost. Use 遗憾 when you want to express a sense of unfulfilled wishes, incompleteness, or simply a polite regret for something you cannot do or that didn't happen as hoped. For example, missing a party might be 遗憾, but a talented artist dying young is 惋惜.
Situations involving wasted talent, missed opportunities, failed projects that had great potential, destruction of valuable things (like heritage or art), or unfortunate events that prevent someone from achieving their full potential are common contexts for 惋惜.
It's a moderate emotion, stronger than a simple 'pity' but less intense than deep sorrow or grief (like 痛惜). It's a nuanced feeling of disappointment and lament for something that could have been better.
Try to create sentences describing scenarios where potential was lost or a good opportunity was missed. Compare these scenarios with situations where only 可惜 or 遗憾 would be appropriate. Pay attention to how native speakers use it in media and conversations.
The character 惜 (xī) means 'to cherish,' 'to treasure,' or 'to regret.' It conveys a sense of valuing something and feeling sad when it is lost or diminished. This core meaning is central to the word 惋惜.
Yes, though less commonly. For instance, one might feel 惋惜 at the sight of a beautiful flower wilting too soon or a stunning sunset fading away quickly, lamenting the loss of that fleeting beauty.
It is pronounced wǎn xī. The 'wǎn' is similar to 'wan' in 'want', and 'xī' has a sound that is tricky for English speakers, often approximated as a soft 'sh' followed by 'ee'.
Yes, idioms like 坐失良机 (to let a good opportunity slip by) and 功亏一篑 (to fall short at the very end) describe situations that would evoke 惋惜. Also, 覆水难收 (spilt water is hard to retrieve) and 追悔莫及 (to regret too late) are related to the feeling of regret.
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Summary
The word 惋惜 (wǎnxī) captures a feeling of regret and pity for lost opportunities, wasted potential, or unfortunate outcomes where a better result was possible. It's a nuanced emotion, often expressed as 'what a shame' or 'it's regrettable' when something valuable is lost or diminished.
- Wǎnxī means pity or regret for lost potential or opportunities.
- It's a feeling of 'what a shame' about unfortunate outcomes.
- Used when something good is wasted or fails to reach its full potential.
- More nuanced than simple regret; implies lamenting lost value.
Mastering the 'xī' sound
The 'x' in 惋惜 (wǎnxī) is a palatal sound, not found in English. Try to place the tip of your tongue behind your lower teeth and the middle of your tongue close to the roof of your mouth, then say 'ee'. It's like a very soft 'shee' sound. Practice saying 'xī' repeatedly.
Context is Key: 惋惜 vs. 可惜
Remember that 惋惜 implies a deeper regret over lost potential or value, while 可惜 is more for general 'pity' or 'shame.' If a talented person doesn't achieve their potential, it's 惋惜. If it rains on your picnic, it's 可惜.
Visual Association for 惋惜
Imagine a wilting flower. It was once beautiful and full of life (potential), but now it's fading. This loss of beauty and life evokes a feeling of regret and sadness – that's 惋惜.
Common Structures with 惋惜
Pay attention to common patterns like '感到惋惜' (to feel regretful), '令人惋惜' (regrettable), and '为...而惋惜' (to feel regretful for...). Using these structures will help you form natural-sounding sentences.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More emotions words
有点
A1A little; somewhat; rather.
一点
A1A little; a bit; slightly.
可恶
A2Hateful; detestable; abominable.
心不在焉
A2Absent-minded; preoccupied.
接受地
A2Acceptingly; receptively.
成就感
B1Sense of achievement; fulfillment.
撒娇
A2To act like a spoiled child; to act cute.
上瘾
B1To be addicted to something.
沉迷
A2To be addicted to; to be engrossed in.
敬佩
B1Admiration; respect; reverence.
