I apologize for the delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "I apologize for the delay" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are expressing regret for a delay in getting a task done or responding to someone. For example, "I apologize for the delay in getting back to you. I was dealing with a family emergency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

I apologize for the delay.

The New York Times

Ladies and gentlemen, I apologize for the delay.

The New Yorker

It's been a couple of days since I last posted, and I apologize for the delay.

The New York Times

The recuperation process has been very slow and I apologize for the delay in responding to your thoughtfulness.

The New York Times

MARILYN COHEN VASSEN To the Borough of Fort Lee: "This is to advise you that I received your 'reminder about snow removal' on May 2 along with the advice on the size of the numbers of my home 'visible from the street.' I apologize for the delay in my response.

The New York Times

I apologize for the delay in responding to the movie, but I wanted to gather my thoughts.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

I apologized for the delay, but it didn't seem like it was that unusual for this to happen.

Huffington Post

I sincerely apologize for the delay and please know that we're working hard to get Lockitron on your door soon.

TechCrunch

"Dear Dr. Vredeveldt, I wanted to once again apologize for the delay in finding your stuffed dog," said a letter that accompanied the photos".We ensured that he enjoyed Canada Day here at the Empress in Victoria and all the staff enjoyed having him on our country's special day".

Huffington Post

We apologize for the delay.

The New Yorker

We do respond to each and every letter we receive, and we apologize for the delay Mr. Marans encountered.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "apologizing for the delay", briefly explain the reason if appropriate, which shows you understand and acknowledge the issue. This can help reassure the recipient and prevent further frustration.

Common error

Avoid using "I apologize for the delay" as a generic response. Always tailor your apology to the specific situation and consider providing a brief explanation or solution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I apologize for the delay" functions as an expression of regret. It is a performative utterance where the speaker uses the words to perform the act of apologizing. This aligns with Ludwig's observation that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I apologize for the delay" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for expressing regret over a delay. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and appropriate for conveying remorse in a variety of situations. The phrase is common in the News & Media and Formal & Business contexts, showing that it is a good choice in many situations. When using this phrase, provide additional context and use it carefully as explained in the writing guidance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I regret the delay

More concise and direct; suitable for slightly more formal contexts.

Please accept my apologies for the delay

More formal and polite; emphasizes the speaker's remorse.

I'm sorry for the delay

More informal and conversational; widely applicable in everyday situations.

I am so sorry for the delay

Emphasizes the speaker's feelings more directly.

We regret any inconvenience caused by the delay

Shifts focus to the impact on the recipient; suitable for official communications.

My apologies for the holdup

Uses a less formal term ("holdup") to describe the delay.

I must apologize for the lateness

Slightly more emphatic, stressing the obligation to apologize.

Kindly accept my sincere apologies for the delay

More elaborate and courteous.

We apologize for the inconvenience and the delay

Highlights both the inconvenience and the delay.

I take responsibility for the delay

Acknowledges personal accountability for the delay.

FAQs

What is the best way to use "I apologize for the delay" in an email?

Start with "I apologize for the delay" early in your message, then immediately provide context or an explanation for the delay. This demonstrates sincerity and respect for the recipient's time.

What are some alternatives to "I apologize for the delay" that sound more professional?

Consider using phrases like "Please accept my apologies for the delay" or "I regret the delay" in more formal settings. You can also say "I regret any inconvenience".

Is it ever inappropriate to say "I apologize for the delay"?

Avoid using "I apologize for the delay" if the delay was intentional or due to negligence. In such cases, a more direct and accountable apology is necessary.

What's the difference between "I apologize for the delay" and "I am sorry for the delay"?

"I apologize for the delay" is slightly more formal than "I am sorry for the delay", but both are generally interchangeable in most contexts. The former is better suited for professional communications, while the latter can be used in more casual settings.