I apologize for

USAGE SUMMARY

"I apologize for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used when you have done something wrong and you need to express remorse or regret, or ask for forgiveness. For example: "I apologize for saying something hurtful, it was not my intention to make you feel bad."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I apologize for that.

The New York Times - Sports

I apologize for it".

The New Yorker

And I apologize for that".

The New York Times

"I apologize for my outburst.

The New York Times

"I apologize for the inconvenience.

The New York Times

Do I apologize for it?

The New York Times

I apologize for the delay.

The New York Times

"I apologize for that memo".

The New York Times

I apologize for the error.

The New Yorker

And I apologize for both.

The New Yorker

I apologize for the intrusion.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and tailor your apology accordingly. A formal setting may require "I apologize for the inconvenience", while a casual setting might warrant "I'm sorry for the mix-up".

Common error

Avoid overusing "I apologize for". If you find yourself repeatedly apologizing, it may indicate a larger issue that needs addressing. Instead of constantly saying "I apologize for", focus on preventing future occurrences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I apologize for" functions as a performative utterance, where the act of saying it constitutes the act of apologizing. It's a direct and explicit way to express regret or remorse for something one has done or said. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I apologize for" is a versatile and widely used expression for conveying regret. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts, though it is important to specify the reason for the apology to ensure clarity and sincerity. While alternatives like "I'm sorry for" or "my apologies for" can be used, "I apologize for" often carries a more formal tone. The most frequent usage contexts are in news and media, showcasing its importance in public discourse and accountability. Remember, authenticity and corrective actions are key to a sincere apology.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I want to apologize for

Highlights the intention to apologize.

I'm sorry for

A more common and slightly less formal way to express regret.

I am so sorry for

Emphasizes the level of remorse and regret.

My apologies for

More formal and uses a noun phrase to express the apology.

I owe you an apology for

More formal and emphasizes the obligation to apologize.

I must apologize for

Emphasizes the obligation to apologize.

Please forgive me for

Places more emphasis on seeking forgiveness.

I regret

A simpler, more direct expression of regret without explicitly apologizing.

Pardon me for

A more formal and polite way to ask for forgiveness, typically for a minor offense.

Excuse me for

Used for minor offenses or inconveniences.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "I apologize for"?

You can use alternatives like "I'm sorry for", "please forgive me for", or "my apologies for" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to say "I apologize for"?

No, sometimes a simple "I'm sorry" or a corrective action is more appropriate. Consider the severity of the situation and the relationship with the person you're addressing.

How can I make my apology more sincere when saying "I apologize for"?

Be genuine, take responsibility for your actions, and show that you understand the impact of your mistake. Follow up with actions to rectify the situation.

What's the difference between "I apologize for" and "excuse me for"?

"I apologize for" is used for more significant offenses or mistakes, while "excuse me for" is typically used for minor inconveniences or interruptions.