Memory connection
Picture “the con tried”
After the con tried to deceive the town, he returns the money, lowers his head, and tries to right the wrong.
The sound cue helps you reach the scene; the action in the scene carries you from the scene to the definition.
Use it accurately
Meaning in context
She sounded contrite as she acknowledged the harm caused by her careless remark.
The student wrote a contrite letter and offered to repair the damaged display.
Contrite describes sincere remorse, often visible in an apology or attempt to make amends. It is stronger than simply embarrassed.
Common patterns
- look contrite
- a contrite apology
- genuinely contrite
Quick check
Can you retrieve the meaning?
Which response seems most contrite?
Choose an answer, then explain it in your own words.