Deplore

Deplore is a transitive verb meaning to feel or express strong disapproval of something; to condemn or lament publicly. In contemporary usage it often signals moral concern and carries a formal tone, appearing in official statements, editorials, and diplomatic discourse.

Etymology: Deplore comes from Old French deplorer, from Latin deplorare, with de- meaning “away” and plorare meaning “to cry out, bewail.” The sense evolved from public lament to expressing strong disapproval of actions or events. Pronunciation is typically dee-PLOR in English.

Usage and grammar: Deplore is followed by a direct object such as a noun phrase (for example, "the violence") or by clauses: a that-clause ("We deplore that the policy was enacted") or an -ing clause ("we deplore having to impose the fee"). It is common in formal writing, journalism, and political statements, and it often conveys moral weight beyond simple disapproval.

Nuance and related terms: Deplore implies not only disapproval but a sense of regret or condemnation of actions as unacceptable. It is stronger than ordinary disapproval but not always as definitive as condemnation. Similar terms include condemn, denounce, lament, and decry. Antonyms include approve, praise, and celebrate.

See also: lament, condemnation, disapproval.