I sorry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I sorry" is not correct in written English.
It is typically a mistake and should be corrected to "I'm sorry" when expressing regret or apology. Example: "I made a mistake on the report, and I’m sorry for any confusion it caused."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

I sorry for you".

The New Yorker

Am I sorry?

The New York Times

"I sorry," he said earnestly.

The New Yorker

Am I sorry about all this?

The New Yorker

Am I sorry that I voted for them?

The Guardian - Opinion

"Nor am I sorry about what's happened today".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

I'm sorry, what?

The New York Times

Ms. Mikulski snarled, "Boy, am I sorry that is the last act of John Sununu in the Senate".

The New York Times

Is "sorry" enough?

The New Yorker

Mr. Cuomo sang, "I ain't never coming back, I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry".

The New York Times - Arts

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I really don't!

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use the correct grammatical form, "I'm sorry" or "I am sorry", in formal writing to maintain credibility and clarity. The ungrammatical form, "I sorry", can undermine your message and make you appear less competent.

Common error

Avoid omitting the auxiliary verb "am" when expressing regret. "I sorry" is grammatically incorrect; always use "I'm sorry" or "I am sorry".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I sorry" functions as an attempted expression of apology or regret. However, it is grammatically incorrect due to the omission of the auxiliary verb "am". As Ludwig AI indicates, this is an incorrect form.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

11%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I sorry" is a grammatically incorrect attempt to express regret or apology. The correct forms are "I am sorry" or "I'm sorry". As Ludwig AI confirms, omitting the auxiliary verb "am" renders the phrase non-standard. While examples of "I sorry" can be found, primarily in News & Media and informal contexts, it is crucial to use the correct grammatical forms in writing and formal communication to ensure clarity and credibility. Alternative expressions like "I apologize" or "My apologies" offer more formal options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I am sorry

Adding the auxiliary verb "am" corrects the grammatical error and creates a standard expression of apology.

I'm sorry

Using the contraction "I'm" (I am) makes the phrase grammatically correct and more conversational.

I apologize

Replaces the informal "sorry" with the more formal verb "apologize", creating a more direct apology.

My apologies

Offers a formal expression of regret, shifting from a personal statement to a direct apology.

I regret

Expresses sorrow or disappointment about something, focusing on the feeling of regret rather than a direct apology.

I feel sorry

Highlights empathy or compassion, expressing sorrow for someone else's situation, not necessarily admitting fault.

Forgive me

Asks for forgiveness, placing emphasis on seeking reconciliation after an offense.

Pardon me

A polite way to ask for forgiveness or to interrupt someone, often used in more formal or traditional contexts.

I am to blame

Acknowledges fault or responsibility, directly admitting one's role in a negative situation.

It's my fault

Clearly states responsibility for an error or problem, taking direct ownership of the mistake.

FAQs

How do I properly use the phrase "I'm sorry" in a sentence?

Use "I'm sorry" to express regret, remorse, or apology. For example, "I'm sorry for the misunderstanding" or "I'm sorry I was late".

What are some alternatives to saying "I'm sorry"?

You can use alternatives like "I apologize", "My apologies", or "I regret" depending on the context.

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

"I'm sorry" is the grammatically correct form. "I sorry" omits the auxiliary verb "am" and is not standard English.

When should I use "I apologize" instead of "I'm sorry"?

"I apologize" is more formal and is often used in professional or official settings, while "I'm sorry" is more informal and suitable for everyday conversations.