真遗憾
zhēn yíhàn
That's a shame · trad. 真遺憾
真遗憾 (zhēn yíhàn) is an expression of regret or pity, often used for serious disappointments or when offering condolences. It conveys a sense of genuine sorrow or unfortunate circumstances.
What does 真遗憾 (zhēn yíhàn) mean?
真遗憾 (zhēn yíhàn) means “that's a shame” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “truly regretful.”
When to use it
Formal-leaning. It's suitable for expressing sympathy in serious situations or for significant disappointments. For a more casual 'what a pity,' you might use 可惜 (kěxī).
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “juhn ee-HAHN.” The first syllable is a high, flat tone, and the second syllable of 遗憾 is a rising tone, followed by a falling tone.
Other ways to say it
- 可惜kěxīwhat a pity / unfortunately
- 太可惜了tài kěxī lewhat a great pity!
- 令人遗憾lìng rén yíhànregrettable (more formal, often in writing)
Examples
真遗憾，我不能参加你的婚礼了。
zhēn yíhàn, wǒ bù néng cānjiā nǐ de hūnlǐ le.
That's a shame, I can't attend your wedding.
听到这个消息，我真遗憾。
tīngdào zhège xiāoxi, wǒ zhēn yíhàn.
I'm truly sorry to hear this news.
他没能完成学业，真遗憾。
tā méi néng wánchéng xuéyè, zhēn yíhàn.
It's a real pity he couldn't finish his studies.
Pro tip: 真遗憾 is stronger and more formal than 可惜 (kěxī). Use it for situations that evoke genuine sorrow or significant regret, not minor inconveniences.
Related phrases
我很难过 · I'm very sad太可惜了 · What a pity吓我一跳 · You startled me
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