- A warning or threat indicating that the listener's current or intended action will lead to negative consequences, regret, or punishment.
Explanation
Origin
- This is a common, naturally evolved English expression.
- It functions as a direct warning, often implying the speaker has foresight or intends to cause the negative consequences themselves.
- The core idea is that the listener will experience regret (sorry) as a result of their actions.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- You're gonna wish you hadn't.
- It's gonna bite you in the ass. (Vulgar)
- You're playing with fire.
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- You'll fucking regret it.
- You'll be shit outta luck.
Milder:
- I wouldn't recommend that.
- That might not be wise.
Situational Appropriateness
- Highly context-dependent. Can be informal (playful warning between friends) to extremely serious (threat).
- Generally avoid in professional settings due to its potentially aggressive or unprofessional tone. Use formal warnings about consequences instead (e.g., This could lead to disciplinary action.).
Misunderstanding Warnings
- The core meaning is clear, but the *intent* (playful warning vs. serious threat) can be misjudged if tone and context aren't clear.
Examples
- If you break that vase, you'll be sorry!
- Go ahead, ignore my advice about the traffic. You'll be sorry when you're stuck for hours.
- (Threat) Tell anyone what you saw, and you'll be sorry.
Dialogue
Liam: I'm thinking of skipping the team meeting. The boss never says anything important.
Chloe: I wouldn't do that if I were you. He takes attendance. You'll be sorry if he notices you're gone.
Liam: Hmm, maybe you're right. Okay, I'll go.
Social Media Examples
- Comment on a post showing risky behavior: Dude, be careful! You'll be sorry if that goes wrong! #failwaitingtohappen
- Replying to someone planning something ill-advised: Seriously reconsidering that 'investment'? Sounds like a scam. You'll be sorry if you lose your money.
Response Patterns
- Defiance: Oh yeah? / Try me. / I'm not scared.
- Dismissal: Whatever. / Yeah, right.
- Inquiry/Concern: Why? What will happen?
- Capitulation: Okay, okay, I won't. / Alright, fine.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- After hearing it: The listener might challenge the speaker (What are you gonna do?), ignore the warning, assess the risk, or change their behavior.
- After saying it: The speaker might specify the consequences (...because I'll tell Mom!) or let the implied threat hang in the air.
Conversation Starter
- No. Usually a reaction or warning within a conversation.
Intonation
- Often spoken with a lowered pitch and emphasis on sorry.
- Can range from a sing-song warning (parent to child) to a flat, menacing tone (threat).
- You'll BE SORRY. or YOU'LL be sorry.
Generation Differences
- Understood by all generations. Might sound slightly dated or melodramatic depending on delivery.
Regional Variations
- Common across English-speaking regions.