- A general threat that implies negative consequences will follow someone's actions or decisions.
- It's less specific than threats of violence but clearly warns of future suffering, trouble, or negative repercussions caused by the speaker or by the natural consequences of the action.
Explanation
Origin
- Straightforward expressions of warning about future regret ('sorry' meaning regretful or unhappy; 'regret' meaning feeling sad or remorseful about something done).
- Common phrases used for centuries to caution or threaten someone about the potential negative outcome of their choices.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- It's gonna bite you in the ass. (Your actions will cause you problems later)
- You're gonna wish you hadn't done that.
- Watch your back. (Implied threat)
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- You'll fucking regret this.
- You'll be fucking sorry.
Milder/More Formal:
- I advise you to reconsider.
- You may come to regret that decision.
- This course of action could have negative repercussions.
Situational Appropriateness
- Can range from informal (even childishly petulant) to quite serious and menacing depending on the context, tone, and relationship between speakers.
- In professional settings, it sounds unprofessional and threatening. More formal warnings about consequences are preferred.
- In personal conflicts, it's a common way to express anger and issue a vague threat.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- The main nuance is the *intent* behind the words, conveyed by tone and context. It can be a serious threat of retaliation, a prediction of natural negative consequences, or even a somewhat empty, frustrated outburst.
- Learners should be cautious using it, as it can easily be perceived as a direct threat.
Examples
- If you betray my trust, you'll be sorry.
- Go ahead, quit the team. But you'll regret this when we win the championship.
- (Child to parent) If you don't buy me that toy, you'll be sorry! (Often an empty threat)
- Ignoring this warning? Okay, but you'll regret this.
Dialogue
Manager: I'm rejecting your proposal. It's too risky.
Employee: I really think this is a mistake. We need to innovate.
Manager: My decision is final.
Employee: Fine. But mark my words, you'll regret this when our competitor launches the same idea first.
Social Media Examples
- (Often used dramatically or in arguments)
- Comment: (After a controversial decision in a game/show) Bad move by the writers. They'll regret this when fans stop watching. #prediction
- Reply: (In an argument) Go ahead and block me. You'll be sorry when you need my help later.
- Tweet: Just rage-quit my job via email. Might regret this tomorrow, but feels good now lol 😅 #YOLO (Self-directed use)
Response Patterns
- (Defiantly) Oh yeah? We'll see about that. / I don't think so.
- (Ignoring) Shrugging it off or changing the subject.
- (Concerned) What do you mean by that? / Are you threatening me?
- (Dismissively) Yeah, yeah, whatever.
- (Fearfully) Backing down or reconsidering the action.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After the threat:
- The person threatened might challenge the speaker (What are you going to do?).
- The speaker might hint at the consequences (Just wait and see) or leave it vague.
- The action proceeds, and the consequences (or lack thereof) eventually become clear.
If clarification is sought (What do you mean?):
- The speaker might elaborate on the threat or remain ambiguous to maintain intimidation.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's a threat or warning issued in response to an action or decision.
Intonation
- Can range from cold and menacing to petulant or dramatic.
- Menacing: Lower tone, even pace, stress on YOU'LL, SORRY/REGRET. YOU'LL be SORRY.
- Petulant/Whining: Higher pitch, drawn-out words. You'll be sorr-eeee!
- Matter-of-fact warning: Calm tone, stress on REGRET. You'll reGRET this.
Generation Differences
- Understood and used across all generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.