Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

What does "penitent" describe?

1. A happy person

2. A forgiving individual

3. A person who tends to regret

4. A confident individual

The correct answer is: A person who tends to regret

"Penitent" describes a person who feels remorse or sorrow for their wrongdoing or actions. This term is often used in a context where someone is reflecting on their past behavior and realizing the negative impact it has had, leading to feelings of regret and a desire for forgiveness or atonement. The essence of being penitent encompasses the acknowledgment of one's mistakes and the emotional response that accompanies such realizations. The other descriptions do not align with the meaning of "penitent." A happy person, a forgiving individual, and a confident individual do not necessarily involve elements of regret or remorse. Instead, these traits focus on positivity, forgiveness, and self-assurance, which are distinct from the emotional state of feeling penitent. Thus, the choice that accurately captures the meaning of the term is the one that relates to a tendency to regret.