apologies but

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apologies but" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express regret or remorse before stating a contrasting point or request. Example: "Apologies but I cannot attend the meeting due to a prior commitment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

@LogieNUFC Apologies but we won't be showing it.

Independent

Japan's leaders have occasionally offered grudging apologies but these have never convinced its neighbors.

The New York Times

Target also took to Twitter to offer apologies, but its last message was at roughly 11 30 a.m.

The New York Times

In response, Marks and Spencers offered their apologies but said that their cafes operate a one-tea bag policy.

Independent

He issued serial apologies, but was eventually forced to give up his leadership position.

The New York Times

Apologies, but we are not able to write our usual Middle East live blog today.

The Guardian

Mays also burst into tears and mumbled apologies but did not go over to the family.

The Guardian

"Apologies, but Jeremy Hunt is out of office so won't be able to read your #ImInWorkJeremy tweets," one commenter joked.

Independent

With apologies, but he does seem to attract this kind of robot talk.

The Guardian - Sport

6.24pm BST 56 min Er, apologies but that appears to have been given as a Saracens scrum for some reason.

The Guardian - Sport

Humble apologies, but I can't remember how Kyle got on - I think he went clear, but will need to check.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone of your writing. While "apologies but" is generally acceptable, more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "I regret to inform you, however".

Common error

Avoid using "apologies but" too frequently in your writing, as it can make you sound overly apologetic or insincere. Vary your sentence structure with alternatives like "I'm sorry, however" or a simple contrasting conjunction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apologies but" primarily functions as a discourse marker, softening the introduction of contrasting or unwelcome information. It combines an expression of regret with a conjunction to smoothly transition into the contrasting point. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

22%

Science

11%

Less common in

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apologies but" is a commonly used phrase to politely introduce a contrasting statement or correction. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It functions as a discourse marker to soften potentially unwelcome news, as evidenced by its frequent occurrence in news and media sources. While generally neutral in register, writers should consider more formal alternatives for certain settings to maintain the appropriate tone. Remember to use it sparingly to avoid sounding insincere. Overall, it is a valuable tool for navigating conversations and written communication with politeness and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I apologize nevertheless

Directly expresses an apology but follows with a contrasting point, similar to the original phrase.

I must apologize however

Strengthens the expression of apology while "however" maintains the contrast.

regretfully however

Replaces "apologies" with "regretfully" for a more formal tone, while "however" maintains the contrast.

I'm sorry to say

Emphasizes the speaker's regret before delivering potentially bad news.

I'm afraid that

Shifts the focus to the speaker's reluctance, followed by the contrasting information.

excuse me however

Combines a polite interruption with a contrasting statement.

my mistake nevertheless

Acknowledges an error and then introduces a statement that contrasts.

pardon me however

Uses a more formal way to ask for forgiveness, followed by the contrast.

forgive me however

Asks for forgiveness prior to introduce a contrasting statement.

with all due respect however

Uses a respectful introduction before expressing disagreement or correction.

FAQs

How can I use "apologies but" in a sentence?

Use "apologies but" to politely introduce a contrasting statement or correction, such as, "Apologies but I'm unable to attend the meeting today."

What are some alternatives to "apologies but"?

You can use alternatives like "I'm sorry, however", "I regret to say, but", or "excuse me, but" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it always necessary to include an apology before a contrasting statement?

No, it's not always necessary. The inclusion of an apology depends on the situation and your relationship with the recipient. Sometimes a direct but polite statement is more appropriate. Use alternatives such as "however" or "nevertheless" to express a contrast.

What's the difference between "apologies but" and "I apologize, but"?

"Apologies but" is a slightly more informal way of expressing regret before a contrasting statement. "I apologize, but" is more direct and formal. Consider your audience and the context when choosing between the two.