apologize profusely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apologize profusely" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that someone is apologizing in a very sincere and extensive manner, often in response to a mistake or offense. Example: "After realizing the error in his report, he apologized profusely to his colleagues for any confusion it may have caused."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Lucy would be an over-apologizer if she had not done anything wrong but nevertheless proceeded to apologize profusely.

Huffington Post

"I think I would just apologize profusely".

The New York Times - Arts

They would then call us and apologize profusely.

The New York Times

I'd apologize profusely and offer the court free at another time, or offer a free lesson.

The New York Times

I want to apologize profusely both to you and your family.

The New York Times

"I will apologize profusely and tell her how much I appreciate it," Lebenthal says.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

He apologizes profusely.

The New Yorker

He apologized profusely.

The New York Times

She apologized profusely.

The New Yorker

Terry apologized profusely to Steele.

The New York Times - Sports

I called him, and apologized profusely".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apologize profusely", ensure your actions align with your words. A profuse apology should be followed by demonstrable efforts to rectify the situation.

Common error

While "apologize profusely" conveys sincerity, overuse can diminish its impact. Reserve it for situations where a significant offense has occurred, or you risk sounding insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apologize profusely" functions as a verbal expression of intense remorse or regret. It emphasizes the act of offering an apology (apologize) and amplifies the sincerity and extent of that apology (profusely), signaling a significant acknowledgement of wrongdoing. Examples from Ludwig show it used in response to errors or offenses.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apologize profusely" is a commonly used phrase that describes expressing a very sincere and extensive apology. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct. It's predominantly found in news and media contexts, and less so in academic or scientific writing. While effective for conveying deep remorse, it should be used judiciously to maintain its sincerity. Alternatives like "sincerely apologize" or "offer a heartfelt apology" can be considered depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

express sincere regret

Similar to 'sincerely apologize' but emphasizes the feeling of regret.

sincerely apologize

Focuses on the sincerity of the apology, rather than the intensity.

offer a heartfelt apology

Highlights the genuine emotion behind the apology.

express deep remorse

Shifts the focus to the feeling of regret.

beg forgiveness

Emphasizes seeking absolution from the wronged party.

make a humble apology

Stresses the lack of pride in the apology.

express profound regret

Highlights the depth of disappointment and sorrow.

offer a contrite apology

Conveys a sense of guilt and willingness to atone.

ask for pardon

Directly requests forgiveness for a transgression.

deeply regret

Focuses on the profound feeling of regret, omitting the explicit act of apologizing.

FAQs

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

You can use "apologize profusely" when you want to express a deep and sincere apology for something. For instance, "After realizing his mistake, he had to "apologize profusely" for the error".

What are some alternatives to "apologize profusely"?

Instead of "apologize profusely", you could use phrases like "sincerely apologize", "offer a heartfelt apology", or "express deep remorse", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to "apologize profusely"?

It's appropriate to "apologize profusely" when you've made a significant mistake or caused considerable harm or offense. The intensity of the apology should match the severity of the situation.

Is there a difference between "apologize profusely" and "apologize sincerely"?

"Apologize profusely" implies a greater degree of intensity and thoroughness in the apology compared to "apologize sincerely". The former suggests a more elaborate and expressive apology.