“Part of a three-word phrase expressing regret” crossword clue

Reveal the answer to see why it works and where this clue has appeared before.SHOULDA is the answer to the New York Times crossword clue “Part of a three-word phrase expressing regret”. It was last seen in the puzzle of September 6, 2026, where it runs at 88 Down and fills 7 squares. It crosses 7 other entries in that grid — those are listed below and are the quickest way to confirm the letters you already have.