I apologise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'I apologise' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used when you wish to express regret for something you have done or not done. Example sentence: I apologise for not getting back to you sooner.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General Communication

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I apologise.

The Guardian

I apologise beforehand.

The Guardian - Film

If so, I apologise.

The Economist

5 I apologise.

The Guardian

For that I apologise".

The Guardian

I apologise for causing trouble".

The Economist

If not, I apologise.

The Guardian - Music

Once again, I apologise".

The Guardian - Sport

I apologise profusely!

The Guardian

OK, I apologise.

The Guardian - Travel

I apologise some more.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Contextualize your apology by briefly explaining what you are apologising for. This shows you understand the impact of your actions.

Common error

Avoid using "I apologise" sarcastically or insincerely. This can undermine the apology and damage your credibility. If you don't genuinely feel sorry, it's better to rephrase your statement or remain silent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I apologise" functions as a performative utterance, where the act of saying it constitutes the act of apologising. According to Ludwig, this phrase is generally correct and indicates acknowledgment of a fault or offense.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

25%

Sport

20%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I apologise" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for expressing regret or offering an apology. Ludwig confirms its correctness. It is especially common in news and media contexts, sports reporting, and formal business communication. While versatile, it is crucial to use it sincerely and with a clear understanding of the offense. Alternatives like "I am sorry" or "my apologies" can be used depending on the context, with "I apologise" often carrying a more formal tone. Remember to follow up an apology with actions to rectify the situation, demonstrating genuine remorse and commitment to improvement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I am sorry

A simpler and more direct way to express regret.

My apologies

A shortened, slightly less formal version of "I apologise".

I express my apologies

More formal and emphatic than "I apologise".

I offer my apologies

Similar in formality to "I express my apologies", but slightly more personal.

I beg your pardon

A more polite and somewhat old-fashioned way of saying "I apologise".

I regret

Focuses on feeling sorry, rather than directly offering an apology.

Forgive me

Implies a request for forgiveness, more personal and intimate.

I take responsibility

Emphasizes accepting accountability for a mistake.

I am to blame

Directly accepts fault and responsibility for an error.

Excuse me

Used for minor offenses or interruptions.

FAQs

How do you use "I apologise" in a sentence?

You can use "I apologise" to express regret for a mistake or oversight. For example, "I apologise for the delay in responding to your email." It's often followed by an explanation of what you're apologising for.

What can I say instead of "I apologise"?

You can use alternatives like "I am sorry", "my apologies", or "excuse me" depending on the context and the severity of the situation.

When is it appropriate to use "I apologise"?

"I apologise" is appropriate when you have made a mistake, caused offense, or failed to meet expectations. It's suitable for both formal and informal situations where you need to express regret.

What is the difference between "I apologise" and "I am sorry"?

"I apologise" is often considered more formal than "I am sorry". Both express regret, but "I apologise" is frequently used in professional or official contexts, while "I am sorry" can be used in a wider range of situations.