I really apologise

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of a sentence "I really apologize" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a common phrase used to express sincere regret or admission of wrongdoing. Example: "I'm sorry for yelling at you earlier. I really apologize for my behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

And, again, I really apologise.

The Guardian - Film

What have I done?" On Thursday, Blunt addressed the incident, telling NBC's Today: "It was not the intention to hurt anybody or cause any offence, so I really apologise to those that I cause offence… It was just an off-hand joke.

Independent

I really apologise but it'll be worth it".

BBC

"I am not homophobic," said Evra, 37. "If I offend someone or I hurt someone I really apologise, but you know it's not my intention". In his social media post on Tuesday, the former France left-back says he made the video "as a joke", adding the French media had taken his use of the derogatory term to mean he is "against gay people".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Anyway, I should really apologise, as last year I offered you the chance to influence my votes before they were submitted.

The Guardian - Sport

Hogan-Howe saId: "I can't really apologise for investigating a serious allegation.

The Guardian

In fact, did he really apologise to anyone?

The Guardian - Sport

My message to them is to calm down and we really apologise for not qualifying, because we promised them that we would qualify".

BBC

I really do apologise for that".

The Guardian

I really must apologise to... well, I've forgotten his name or who he worked for, but the guy who told me that the number of passwords people have to remember was a serious problem.

The Guardian - Tech

"I really do apologise to the fans for that performance.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I really apologise", follow it with a specific explanation of what you are apologising for. This shows you understand the impact of your actions and are taking responsibility.

Common error

Avoid saying "I really apologise" without changing your behavior or making amends for your actions. Empty apologies can damage trust and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I really apologise" functions as an illocutionary act of apology, expressing regret or remorse for a perceived wrong. According to Ludwig, it is a common phrase. It is used to convey sincerity and responsibility for one's actions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Sport

25%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I really apologise" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey genuine remorse or regret. Ludwig confirms its correctness. While categorized as 'Rare' in terms of frequency due to the relatively limited number of exact examples found, it's prevalent in News & Media and Sport contexts. To express a deeper sense of regret, alternatives like "I sincerely apologize" or "I am truly sorry" can be used. When using the phrase, ensure sincerity and provide specific details about what you are apologising for to avoid insincerity. Therefore, use it judiciously to ensure the phrase retains its value in conveying genuine remorse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I sincerely apologize

Emphasizes the genuineness of the apology.

I truly apologize

Highlights the authenticity of the apology.

I am truly sorry

Expresses regret with a focus on the speaker's feelings.

I deeply regret

Focuses on the feeling of remorse and sorrow.

I am very sorry

Simple and common expression of regret.

I offer my sincerest apologies

More formal way of expressing regret.

I am deeply sorry for

Specifies the action being apologized for.

Please forgive me

Directly asks for forgiveness from the affected party.

I take full responsibility and apologize

Acknowledges accountability alongside the apology.

I beg your pardon

Formal and somewhat old-fashioned apology.

FAQs

What's the difference between "I really apologise" and "I sincerely apologise"?

Both phrases express regret, but "I sincerely apologise" may convey a slightly stronger sense of earnestness and formality. However, the phrases are largely interchangeable.

When is it appropriate to use "I really apologise"?

It is appropriate to use "I really apologise" in situations where you genuinely regret your actions or words and want to express your remorse to someone you have wronged. It is suitable for both personal and professional contexts.

What can I say instead of "I really apologise"?

You can use alternatives like "I am truly sorry", "I sincerely apologize", or "please forgive me" depending on the context.

Is "I really apologise" grammatically correct?

Yes, "I really apologise" is grammatically correct. It is a common and accepted way to express remorse or regret in the English language. Ludwig confirms its correctness and provides examples of its use in various contexts.