Nelson-Denny Practice Test

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Enhance your vocabulary and reading comprehension skills with the Nelson-Denny test. Study with comprehensive flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Ensure your success with detailed explanations and insights!

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What feeling is conveyed by the term "ruefully"?

Happily
Regretfully
Calmly
Joyfully

The correct answer is: Regretfully

The term "ruefully" conveys a sense of regret or sorrow, typically mixed with a touch of irony or humor about a past situation. When someone expresses a rueful feeling, it indicates that they are looking back on something with a sense of disappointment or remorse, often acknowledging their mistakes or the consequences of their actions. This usage captures not just the recognition of a wrong or a misstep, but also an awareness that while the situation is unfortunate, it may also be viewed with a wry, reflective attitude. This is why "regretfully" is the most appropriate choice, as it aligns directly with the emotional nuance of ruefulness.