Crossword Genius

Deeply regretted sounding impolite (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rued

'deeply regretted' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'sounding impolite' is the wordplay.
'sounding' shows a homophone (sound like).
'impolite' becomes 'rude' (similar in meaning).
'rude' is a homophone of 'RUED'.

(Other definitions for rued that I've seen before include "Was sorry" , "Bitterly regretted" , "was remorseful" , "Was contrite about" , "'Regretted, repented (4)'" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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