I'm sorry

USAGE SUMMARY

"I'm sorry" is correct and usable in written English
You can use it when expressing regret or apologizing for something you did or said. For example: "I'm sorry; I shouldn't have said that."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

I'm sorry.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

("I'm sorry. I'm sorry").

The New York Times - Arts

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry everyone".

The New York Times - Magazine

I'm sorry, parabola.

Yale University

Oh, I'm sorry.

Cornell University

I'm sorry, Principles.

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

"Well, I am sorry.

The New Yorker

PREMINGER: I am sorry.

The New Yorker

Owner: I am sorry.

The New York Times

I am sorry I failed.

Independent

And I am sorry.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I'm sorry" sincerely and specifically. Instead of a generic apology, briefly acknowledge the specific action or words you regret.

Common error

Avoid using "I'm sorry" excessively, especially when it becomes a filler phrase or a way to seek reassurance. Overuse can diminish the sincerity and impact of a genuine apology.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I'm sorry" primarily functions as an interjection or an apology. It expresses regret, remorse, or sympathy. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted for expressing regret.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

12%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I'm sorry" is a ubiquitous expression used primarily to convey regret, apology, or sympathy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and appropriate for diverse contexts. It sees frequent use in News & Media and academic settings. When using "I'm sorry", consider the context to ensure sincerity and avoid overuse, which can diminish its impact. Alternatives such as "my apologies" or "I apologize" can be used for a more formal tone, while "forgive me" is suitable when seeking forgiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

My apologies

A more formal way of saying sorry.

I apologize

A more formal and direct expression of regret.

I regret that

Expresses sorrow or disappointment about a situation.

Forgive me

Asks for forgiveness, often used when admitting fault.

I didn't mean to

Indicates that an action was unintentional and regrettable.

Pardon me

A polite way to apologize for a minor offense or interruption.

I feel bad about

Expresses remorse or guilt about something.

That was my fault

Accepts responsibility for a mistake or error.

It's my mistake

Acknowledges an error and takes ownership.

I take full responsibility

A formal acceptance of blame for something.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "I'm sorry"?

You can use alternatives like "my apologies", "I apologize", or "forgive me" depending on the context.

How to use "I'm sorry" in a sentence?

You can use "I'm sorry" to express regret or apologize for something. For example, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt you" or "I'm sorry for being late".

Which is correct, "I'm sorry" or "I am sorry"?

Both "I'm sorry" and "I am sorry" are correct. "I'm sorry" is a contraction and is more common in informal contexts, while "I am sorry" is slightly more formal but expresses the same sentiment.

When is it appropriate to use "I'm sorry"?

"I'm sorry" is appropriate when you want to express regret, apologize for a mistake, or show sympathy. It can be used in a variety of situations, from minor inconveniences to serious errors.