apologize for failing

USAGE SUMMARY

This is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express regret for not meeting an expectation or failing to do something. For example: "I apologize for failing to submit the report on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Even the women's gymnastics team, with silver as an honorable keepsake for its effort, was all but forced to apologize for failing the gold hype on Tuesday night.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Kissinger did not apologize for failing to recognize before he accepted the appointment that he would have to reveal his client list.

The New York Times

In recent times, Facebook has also run full-page ads in newspapers to apologize for failing to safeguard user data in the wake of the Cambridge Analytica scandal, and taken out print adverts ahead of European elections to warn against attempts to spread fake news to try to meddle with democratic processes.

TechCrunch

But the following year another ProPublica investigation showed it was still failing to block discriminatory ads — leaving Facebook to apologize for failing to effectively enforce its own policies (hmmm, now where else have we heard the company accused of that… ), and saying: "Our systems continue to improve but we can do better".

TechCrunch

I must especially apologize for failing to recognize the possibility that receptive males may also want to engage in anal intercourse with penetrative females.

Vice

We apologize for failing to specify the concentrations of cofilin used in the severing assays.

eLife

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Rather opposed the Heyward apology, but on the evening news he apologized for failing to "fully scrutinize the documents and their source".

The New Yorker

The e-mails also show Mr. Ceglia apologizing for failing to pay Mr. Zuckerberg.

The New York Times

He apologized for failing to stop the illicit behavior sooner, and vowed to make amends.

The New York Times

But in 2008 the Buckingham Browne & Nichols School, in Cambridge, apologized for failing to act when confronted with evidence of abuse, and offered counselling.

The New Yorker

On Wednesday, after weeks of ham-handed efforts to contain the firestorm, the coach, Rudolf Straeuli, apologized for failing to fully address the incident at its start.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apologize for failing", be specific about what you failed to do. This demonstrates sincerity and accountability.

Common error

Avoid vague apologies like "I apologize for failing." Instead, clarify what you failed to do. For example, say "I apologize for failing to meet the deadline."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apologize for failing" functions as a verb phrase expressing regret or remorse for not achieving a desired outcome. It typically introduces an explanation or justification for the failure. Ludwig AI states that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "apologize for failing" is a common and grammatically sound way to express regret and accountability for not achieving a desired outcome. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is most frequently used in News & Media and Science contexts, suggesting a broad applicability across various registers. To enhance clarity and sincerity, it's best to specify the exact nature of the failure when using this phrase. Alternatives include "express remorse for failing" or "take responsibility for the failure", depending on the desired level of formality. The key is to be specific, sincere, and accountable when offering an apology.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offer apologies for the failure

A more formal way of saying "apologize".

express remorse for failing

Replaces "apologize" with a more formal expression of regret.

take responsibility for the failure

Shifts focus to accepting accountability.

acknowledge fault in failing

Emphasizes recognition of one's own error.

regret not succeeding

Focuses on the feeling of disappointment regarding the lack of success.

express regret for not fulfilling

Highlights the unfulfilled expectation.

say sorry for not achieving

Uses a more informal "say sorry" instead of "apologize".

lament the failure to

Replaces "apologize" with a stronger expression of sorrow.

seek pardon for the failure

Implies asking for forgiveness.

offer an excuse for failing

Presents a reason, possibly a justification, for the failure.

FAQs

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

You can use "apologize for failing" to express regret for not meeting an expectation. For example, "I "apologize for failing" to complete the project on time".

What are some alternatives to "apologize for failing"?

Alternatives include "express remorse for failing", "take responsibility for the failure", or "acknowledge fault in failing".

Is it better to say "apologize for failing" or "apologize for the failure"?

Both are acceptable, but "apologize for failing" is used when referring to a specific action, while "apologize for the failure" is more general. For example, you'd say ""apologize for failing" to meet expectations" versus "apologize for the project's failure".

When should I use "regret for failing" instead of "apologize for failing"?

"Regret for failing" expresses a feeling of disappointment. "Apologize for failing" expresses remorse and responsibility.