Apologize for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Apologize for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing regret or remorse for a specific action or situation. Example: "I apologize for the misunderstanding that occurred during our last meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Apologize for ruining my Christmas!

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Apologize for what?" Karen asked.

The New Yorker

Apologize for untruth!

Huffington Post

Apologize for nothing.

Huffington Post

Apologize for mistakes.

Huffington Post

Apologize for everything.

WikiHow

Apologize for the consequences.

WikiHow

Apologize for any mistake.

WikiHow

Apologize for your mistake.

WikiHow

Apologize for your mistakes.

WikiHow

Apologize for interrupting yourself.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Apologize for", be specific about the action or situation you are apologizing for to ensure sincerity and clarity. Example: "Apologize for the delay in responding to your email."

Common error

Avoid using passive voice when apologizing. Instead of saying "Mistakes were made," directly "Apologize for the mistakes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Apologize for" functions as an imperative, directly instructing or urging someone to express regret or remorse. Ludwig examples show it used in various contexts, from apologizing for mistakes to unintentional harm.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

24%

Science

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Apologize for" is a grammatically correct and very common imperative phrase used to express regret or seek reconciliation. Ludwig AI shows it's versatile, appearing in news, wiki, and scientific contexts. While the phrase is deemed correct, being specific and sincere when apologizing enhances its impact. Avoiding passive voice in apologies is also recommended for directness and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Offer an apology for

This alternative is slightly more formal and emphasizes the act of giving an apology.

Express remorse for

This focuses on the feeling of regret, making it more about the internal state.

Say you're sorry for

This is a more direct and informal way of expressing apology.

Acknowledge fault for

This emphasizes admitting responsibility for a mistake or error.

Take responsibility for

This focuses on accepting the consequences or blame for something.

Make amends for

This suggests taking action to repair the damage caused.

Beg pardon for

This is a very formal and somewhat archaic way of apologizing.

Justify behavior for

This attempts to explain the reasons behind the action.

Atone for

This implies making amends or reparations for a wrongdoing, often in a moral or ethical context.

Excuse yourself for

This is often used for minor social transgressions or interruptions.

FAQs

How do I use "Apologize for" in a sentence?

Use "Apologize for" to express regret or remorse for a specific action or situation. For example: "Apologize for the misunderstanding that occurred during our last meeting."

What can I say instead of "Apologize for"?

You can use alternatives like "offer an apology for", "express remorse for", or "say you're sorry for", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "Apologize for"?

It's appropriate to use "Apologize for" when you want to formally or sincerely express regret for something you or your organization did that caused inconvenience, harm, or offense.

What is the difference between "Apologize for" and "Excuse for"?

"Apologize for" expresses regret and takes responsibility, while "excuse for" provides a justification or reason, sometimes to lessen blame. For example, you might "apologize for" being late, but offer an "excuse for" the delay.