apologetic

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "apologetic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express regret for something that has been said or done. Example sentence: I am apologetic for my wrong behavior and for not apologizing sooner.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For many Derry people it seemed the tone Cameron struck – humble, apologetic, firm – was pitch perfect.

The Guardian

Former UN ambassador John Bolton, a hawk's hawk, played to type, declaring, "we do not accept an America that is weak and declining, we do not accept an American military that is weak and poorly equipped, and in particular, we do not accept an American president who is weak and indecisive and apologetic about our country".

The Guardian

In several cases, they were quite apologetic about having to discuss the matter and were as much concerned for the priest's welfare as for their child and other children".

The Guardian

Walpole offered a 20-guinea reward for his belongings, to which Maclaine responded with a somewhat apologetic letter demanding 40 guineas.

The Guardian - Film

For the victim there is always the fear – that if the perpetrator is not forthcoming or apologetic, what can stop him or her from doing it all over again?

The Guardian

They also performed Same Love, their gay rights anthem, with the singer Mary Lambert, though when Jennifer Hudson emerged to duet the last part of the song with Ms Lambert, it felt like a sort of apologetic compensation for the night's whitewash.

The Guardian

It is that capacity to place yourself above the law and to make those who have been wronged feel "quite apologetic" that is peculiar to the church.

The Guardian

But instead of being apologetic, she delivers these jokes from a position of unassailable strength; the confidence she radiates means all the fat jokes seem to be at our expense rather than hers.

The Guardian

If, however, you go into motherhood apologetic for your decisions, as if what you've done is somehow "less", then that might give some people more chance to see it like that.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He was apologetic, I don't think he really knew what was going on".

The Guardian

It's hard to see how the BBC could look any more apologetic about the whole affair, with the possible exception of somehow releasing it on Ceefax at 3am.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apologetic", ensure the context clearly indicates what you are expressing regret for. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid being excessively "apologetic" in professional environments. It can undermine your authority and confidence. Instead, focus on solutions and clear communication.

Linguistic Context

The word "apologetic" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe someone or something that expresses or shows regret. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for expressing regret. Examples from Ludwig show it describing tones, letters and behaviours.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apologetic" is an adjective used to express regret or remorse. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English. The analysis reveals that the word is very common, particularly in "News & Media", "Formal & Business", and scientific contexts. When aiming to convey regret, writers can choose among alternatives such as "remorseful", "regretful", or "contrite". Remember to use "apologetic" judiciously, avoiding overuse in professional settings to maintain authority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remorseful

This term directly conveys deep regret or guilt for wrongdoing.

regretful

This term expresses sorrow or disappointment over something that has happened or been done.

contrite

This term suggests sincere remorse and penitence for one's sins or offenses.

penitent

This term implies a feeling of regret for having committed sins or misdeeds.

rueful

This term expresses sorrow or regret, often in a humorous way.

ashamed

This term denotes a feeling of embarrassment or disgrace caused by one's actions or characteristics.

expressing regret

This phrase explicitly states the act of showing remorse for something.

offering an apology

This phrase describes the act of formally conveying one's regret and asking for forgiveness.

feeling sorry

This phrase conveys a sense of compassion or pity for someone's misfortune.

expressing remorse

This phrase emphasizes the open demonstration of regret and contrition.

FAQs

How can I use "apologetic" in a sentence?

You can use "apologetic" to describe someone who is expressing or showing regret. For example, "He was "apologetic" about the error he made".

What's a formal alternative to "apologetic"?

In formal contexts, consider using "remorseful" or "contrite" as more sophisticated alternatives to "apologetic".

When is it appropriate to be "apologetic"?

It's appropriate to be "apologetic" when you've made a mistake, caused harm, or otherwise need to express regret for your actions or words.

Is it better to be "apologetic" or to offer a direct apology?

Offering a direct apology is often more effective. Being "apologetic" describes a state of mind, while offering a direct apology involves expressing regret and taking responsibility, which can be more meaningful.