a thousand pardons

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a thousand pardons" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used as an expression of apology or remorse, similar to saying "I'm sorry." Example: "Please accept my sincere apologies, a thousand pardons, for being late to our meeting. I got stuck in unexpected traffic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Reference

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

A THOUSAND PARDONS, by Jonathan Dee.

The New York Times - Books

I loved Jonathan Dee's new novel, "A Thousand Pardons".

The New York Times - Books

Jonathan Dee's "A Thousand Pardons," which I just received in galleys.

The New York Times - Books

Whereas Dee's 2010 novel "The Privileges" opens with a wedding, "A Thousand Pardons" opens with a marriage's spectacular implosion.

The New York Times - Books

Whereas Dee's brilliant 2010 novel "The Privileges" opens with a wedding, "A Thousand Pardons" opens with a marriage's spectacular implosion.

The New York Times - Books

But in A Thousand Pardons, absolution is almost automatic, and therefore unsatisfying.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

(George W. Bush granted a hundred and eighty-nine pardons, and eleven commutations; for Bill Clinton, the numbers were three hundred and ninety-six pardons and sixty-one commutations).

The New Yorker

He would issue "one thousand pardons a day" to officers who murdered drug dealers, he said, and then pardon himself of any crimes he may have committed at the end of his presidential term.

Vice

While the decision applied only to the nine pardons, an opposite ruling would have put the vast majority of the others in jeopardy.

The New York Times

The two pardons come a week after Mr. Bush approved the execution of Oliver Cruz, a convicted rapist and murderer deemed mentally retarded by defense psychologists.

The New York Times

Mr. Piñera said the time for a general pardon was not right, noting that the government had issued three pardons in the past decade.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a thousand pardons" to add a touch of formality and emphasis to your apology, especially in situations where a simple 'sorry' feels insufficient.

Common error

While "a thousand pardons" is a valid expression, avoid using it excessively, as it can come across as insincere or theatrical. Reserve it for situations that genuinely warrant a more emphatic apology.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a thousand pardons" functions as an expression of apology or remorse. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's similar to saying "I'm sorry" but often carries a more formal or emphatic tone. Examples show its use in various contexts requiring an expression of regret.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Reference

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"A thousand pardons" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express apology or remorse, functioning similarly to "I'm sorry" but often with a more formal tone. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not exceedingly common, it appears primarily in News & Media sources and occasionally in more general contexts. Its usage suggests a desire to convey sincerity or politeness, making it suitable for situations where a simple apology may feel insufficient. When writing, it's best to reserve this phrase for instances where the situation warrants a more emphatic expression of regret to avoid sounding insincere. More common ways of expressing this would be "I am truly sorry" or "My sincerest apologies".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A thousand apologies

Similar expression to "a thousand pardons", conveys deep regret.

My sincerest apologies

Formal expression conveying deep regret.

I am truly sorry

Emphasizes the speaker's genuine regret and remorse.

I beg your pardon

A polite way to ask for a repetition or express disagreement, also used to apologize.

Please forgive me

Direct request for forgiveness, emphasizing personal responsibility.

I offer my apologies

Formal way to express regret, often used in written communication.

Pardon my interruption

Similar to 'excuse my intrusion' but specifically addresses interrupting someone.

I am filled with remorse

Strong expression of deep regret and guilt.

Excuse my intrusion

Polite way to apologize for interrupting or disturbing someone.

I regret to inform you

Used to soften bad news, implying regret over the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a thousand pardons" in a sentence?

You can use "a thousand pardons" as a more emphatic way of saying "I'm sorry". For example, "A thousand pardons for the inconvenience this may have caused."

What's the difference between "a thousand pardons" and "a thousand apologies"?

The phrases "a thousand pardons" and "a thousand apologies" are nearly synonymous and can be used interchangeably to express sincere regret. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or the desired tone.

Is "a thousand pardons" too formal for everyday conversation?

While "a thousand pardons" leans towards formality, it can be used in everyday conversation when you want to emphasize your sincerity or add a touch of politeness. However, simpler expressions like "sorry" or "excuse me" are often more appropriate for casual settings.

What are some alternative phrases to "a thousand pardons" that convey a similar meaning?

Alternatives include "my sincerest apologies", "please forgive me", or "I am truly sorry". The best choice depends on the context and the level of formality required.