apologize for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apologize for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing regret or remorse for a specific action or situation. Example: "I apologize for the misunderstanding that occurred during our last meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

I apologize for that.

The New York Times - Sports

I apologize for it".

The New Yorker

We apologize for the error.

Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

We apologize for it.

The New York Times

"One shouldn't apologize for that".

The New York Times - Science

And I apologize for that".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

He apologized for it.

The New York Times

She apologizes for cursing.

The New Yorker

I apologized for rushing.

The New York Times - Arts

She apologizes for that.

The New Yorker

Gabe apologized for being shirtless.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apologize for", be specific about what you are apologizing for. This shows sincerity and understanding of the issue.

Common error

Avoid using general statements like "I apologize for any inconvenience". Instead, clearly state what you are apologizing for to make the apology more meaningful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apologize for" functions as a verb phrase used to express regret or remorse for a specific action, mistake, or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a standard and accepted way to convey an apology. Examples from Ludwig show it used in various contexts, from personal apologies to formal statements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

36%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apologize for" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to convey regret or remorse. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. While generally neutral to formal in tone, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts. For effective communication, specify the reason for your apology, and consider using alternatives like "express regret for" or "say sorry for" depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

express regret for

Formal alternative that emphasizes the feeling of regret.

offer an apology for

More formal and emphasizes the act of giving an apology.

say sorry for

Informal and direct way to express remorse.

beg forgiveness for

Implies a deeper sense of remorse and a plea for pardon.

make amends for

Focuses on taking action to repair the harm caused.

atone for

Suggests making reparation or expiation for a wrong.

seek pardon for

Formal and suggests actively requesting forgiveness.

ask for indulgence for

Polite and implies requesting leniency.

offer excuses for

Suggests providing reasons to justify or explain an action.

take responsibility for

Emphasizes accepting accountability for an action.

FAQs

How can I use "apologize for" in a sentence?

You can use "apologize for" to express regret or remorse for something. For example, "I "apologize for" the delay in responding to your email".

What are some alternatives to "apologize for"?

Alternatives to "apologize for" include "express regret for", "say sorry for", or "offer an apology for".

When is it appropriate to use "apologize for"?

It is appropriate to use "apologize for" when you want to formally express regret or take responsibility for a mistake, inconvenience, or offense.

Is there a difference between "apologize for" and "sorry for"?

"Apologize for" is generally considered more formal than "sorry for". While both express regret, "apologize for" is often used in professional or formal settings.