Is compunction a common word?

It is fairly formal and not used in everyday speech very often.

What is the difference between compunction and guilt?

Guilt is the more common word. Compunction sounds more formal and often appears in writing.

Can I say 'without compunction'?

Yes. It means you do something without feeling sorry or guilty.

Is compunction used in academic writing?

Yes, especially in essays, reports, and formal discussions about ethics.

← Dictionary

compunction

/kəmˈpʌŋk.ʃən/

IELTSAcademic

noun

A feeling of guilt or unease about doing something wrong. It is often used in the phrase 'without compunction,' meaning without feeling sorry.

He left without compunction.
She felt compunction after lying to her friend.
They showed no compunction about raising prices.

Adinary Nuance

Compunction is close to guilt, remorse, and scruple, but it is more formal. Guilt is the most common word; remorse is stronger and more emotional. Scruple often means a moral hesitation before doing something. Compunction is especially common in phrases like 'without compunction.'

In other languages

Vietnamese: cắn rứt
Spanish: remordimiento
Chinese: 内疚
Japanese: 良心の呵責
Korean: 양심의 가책

Etymology

Compunction came into English from Latin in the late Middle Ages. It is related to a word meaning 'a prick' or 'a stabbing feeling,' which matches its sense of guilt.

Common phrases

without compunctionfeel compunctionno compunction

Synonyms

guilt remorse scruple

Related words

conscience regret shame

Frequently asked questions

Is compunction a common word?: It is fairly formal and not used in everyday speech very often.
What is the difference between compunction and guilt?: Guilt is the more common word. Compunction sounds more formal and often appears in writing.
Can I say 'without compunction'?: Yes. It means you do something without feeling sorry or guilty.
Is compunction used in academic writing?: Yes, especially in essays, reports, and formal discussions about ethics.