Reuen

Reuen may refer to several related uses in German-language contexts. As a verb, reuen is largely archaic or literary; the modern standard German equivalent is bereuen, and speakers typically use bereuen when expressing regret. In older texts, reuen could appear in constructions that express remorse, but it is rarely used in contemporary prose or speech.

As a noun, Reue denotes remorse or regret. The common form is the singular die Reue, while the plural die Reuen occurs in historical or formal writing. The concept of Reue covers feelings of repentance and the sorrow associated with past actions.

Reuen also appears as a surname of German origin. In onomastic usage, it can be found in family names and may occur in records related to German-speaking regions.

Linguistically, Reue and its related forms trace back to Germanic roots tied to remorse and penitence. The plural form Reuen is primarily encountered in older or literary contexts, whereas modern usage tends to favor bereuen (to regret) and die Reue (remorse) in standard language. In contemporary writing, Reuen is most likely to be encountered in historical, linguistic, or genealogical discussions rather than in everyday communication.