Think of 'un lamento' as a stronger, more poetic word than just 'sadness'. It's often used for deep regrets, complaints about injustice, or sorrowful sounds, like a howl or a sad song.

More Than Just Sadness

Fairly common, especially in writing, songs, or more formal and emotional speech.

Formal Regret vs. Everyday Apology

When you say you regret *that someone else* does something, the verb that follows 'que' changes its ending. This special form is called the subjunctive. For example: 'Lamento que **estés** triste.' (I'm sorry that you are sad.)

Using 'Lamentar que' + a Special Verb Form

'Lamento' is a great way to sound very polite and serious when delivering bad news or expressing sincere regret. It's often used in business or official communications.

Sounding Formal and Polite

Very common, especially in formal situations to express regret or deliver bad news. It's the 'I' form of the verb 'lamentar'.

Learn the complete meaning of 'lamento' in Spanish. See definitions for the noun (a regret, lament) and verb (I regret), plus full conjugations for 'lamentar', examples, and usage tips.

lamentar

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

preterite

imperfect

future

conditional

subjunctive

present

imperfect

imperative

affirmative

negative

Practice Conjugations