Dictionary of English - regretfully or regrettably

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Regretfully means 'feeling or showing regret', regrettably means 'undesirable', 'causing regret', 'open to criticism'. Regrettably is sometimes used in place of regretfully, but this should be avoided because of the difference in meaning: Regretfully, he declined their invitation means that he was, or appeared to be, full of sadness and regret at having to do so. Regrettably, he declined their invitation means that his refusal is something to regret; perhaps because he had no good reason for doing so or because things would have turned out better if he had accepted.

The three stars are taken from the arms of the Duchy of Selje. The flag uses the pan-Slav colours. Effective date: 25 June 1991. >>