lamentar
“lamentar” means “to regret” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to regret
Also: to be sorry about
📝 In Action
Lamento mucho lo que pasó ayer.
A2I am very sorry about what happened yesterday.
Lamentamos informarles que el vuelo se ha cancelado.
B1We regret to inform you that the flight has been canceled.
Lamento que no puedas venir a la fiesta.
B2I'm sorry that you can't come to the party.
to mourn
Also: to wail
📝 In Action
El pueblo lamentaba la muerte del rey.
C1The people mourned the death of the king.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
🔀 Commonly Confused With
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: lamentar
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'I regret that you are leaving' (using the 'special' subjunctive form for the second verb)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'lamentari', which comes from 'lamentum' (a wailing or crying out).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'lo siento' and 'lamento'?
'Lo siento' is a general apology (I'm sorry). 'Lamento' is more specific and formal, usually followed by the thing you regret (e.g., 'Lamento el retraso').
Does 'lamentar' always need the special subjunctive verb form?
Only if there are two different people involved. If I regret my own action, I use the infinitive: 'Lamento llegar tarde' (I regret arriving late).
Is 'lamentar' common in daily life?
Yes, but it sounds slightly more educated or serious than just saying 'lo siento'.