World Languages Lexicon
10 Language-to-English DictionariesAlas
/əˈlæs/Comprehensive Definitions & Senses
2 senses- 1
An expression of grief, pity, or concern.
"Alas, I cannot attend the meeting due to a prior commitment." - 2
Used to express disappointment or regret.
"Alas, the concert was canceled at the last minute."
Thesaurus & Semantic Spectrum
Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology
The word 'alas' originates from Middle English 'alas', derived from Old French 'alas', which in turn comes from Latin 'ala', meaning 'wing'. Historically, it has evolved to express sorrow or regret, often used in lamentation.
Which of the following is the closest synonym for "Alas"?
10 Global Lexicons: How "Alas" is said worldwide
Click any language below to open its dedicated Language to English dictionary page with native script & transliteration
Hélas
Transliteration: el-ah
"Hélas, je ne peux pas venir à la fête."
Leider
Transliteration: lai-der
"Leider kann ich nicht teilnehmen."
Purtroppo
Transliteration: pur-troppo
"Purtroppo non posso venire."
Desgraciadamente
Transliteration: des-gra-ci-a-da-men-te
"Desgraciadamente, no puedo asistir."
Infelizmente
Transliteration: in-fe-li-zen-te
"Infelizmente, não posso ir."
दुर्भाग्यवश
Transliteration: durbhāgyavaś
"दुर्भाग्यवश, मैं नहीं आ सकता।"
可惜
Transliteration: kěxī
"可惜,我不能参加。"
안타깝게도
Transliteration: antaggapgedo
"안타깝게도 참석할 수 없습니다."
残念ながら
Transliteration: zannen nagara
"残念ながら、参加できません。"
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