后悔的英文：Regret

Regret is a universal emotion that transcends cultures and languages. It is the bittersweet pang of looking back at decisions made, actions taken—or not taken—and wishing for a different outcome. Whether it’s the words left unsaid or the opportunities missed, regret lingers in our minds like an unwelcome guest.

In English literature, regret often serves as a central theme in stories about love, loss, and personal growth. Shakespeare’s Hamlet captures this sentiment beautifully: “To be, or not to be—that is the question.” Hamlet’s internal struggle reflects the human tendency to ponder what could have been if circumstances had unfolded differently. Similarly, John Green’s novel The Fault in Our Stars explores how regret shapes relationships when characters confront their mortality.

Regret can be both a teacher and a burden. On one hand, it forces us to reflect on our choices and learn from them, fostering self-awareness and wisdom. On the other hand, it can trap us in cycles of guilt and sorrow, preventing us from moving forward. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t live long enough to make them all yourself.”

Yet, embracing regret doesn’t mean wallowing in despair. Instead, it means acknowledging imperfection and finding meaning in past experiences. Psychologists suggest that accepting regret allows individuals to reframe painful memories into lessons that inspire future actions. For instance, someone who regrets not pursuing higher education might channel those feelings into enrolling in courses later in life.

Ultimately, regret is part of being human. Its presence reminds us that we are fallible but capable of change. By understanding and processing regret, we gain clarity about who we are and who we wish to become. In the end, it’s not the act of regretting that defines us—it’s how we choose to rise above it.