apology accepted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apology accepted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in response to someone who has apologized, indicating that you acknowledge and accept their apology. Example: "After considering your explanation, I want you to know that your apology is accepted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Social Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"Rhodri, apology accepted," writes the magnanimous Alex Wright.

The Guardian - Sport

If Purpose is a sort of mea culpa, the message from Texas on Thursday was: apology accepted.

The Guardian - Music

At some point, sooner rather than later, the broadcaster should simply have said "Sorry, Gilligan went over the top on that story", and the government should have said "OK, apology accepted, mistakes happen in the best of houses".

The Guardian

The blog post says that Musk meant people who apologize for making a hurtful statement on one occasion should have their apology accepted if it's sincere, because "the counterpoint would be that a single careless comment should ruin a person's life and career, even if they truly regret their action and do their best to make amends.

TechCrunch

Apology accepted.

The New York Times

Apology accepted Josh.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Racists cannot simply ask for an apology, accept forgiveness and move on.

HuffPost

Apologies accepted on behalf of Anne, and of course your other questions still stand!

The Guardian - Books

Consider the apologies accepted, auteurs.

Huffington Post

Apparently, according to his critics, that apology - accepted by Home Secretary Jacqui Smith, London Mayor Ken Livingstone and Metropolitan Police Authority chair Len Duvall, was not enough.

The Guardian - Opinion

Apology not accepted.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and relationship with the person when using this phrase. It might be too informal for certain professional settings.

Common error

Avoid using "apology accepted" if you haven't truly forgiven the person. Insincere use can damage trust and make the situation worse.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apology accepted" functions as a performative utterance, where the act of saying it accomplishes the action of accepting the apology. It's a concise way to indicate forgiveness and closure. Ludwig examples show its common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Social Media

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "apology accepted" serves as a direct and commonly used way to convey forgiveness. Ludwig's analysis confirms it's grammatically correct and frequently found in News & Media and formal settings. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure sincerity when using this phrase to avoid damaging trust. Alternatives like "I accept your apology" or "Your apology is accepted" may be more suitable for formal situations. Ultimately, using "apology accepted" effectively depends on the context and the relationship between the individuals involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I accept your apology

Direct statement of accepting the apology.

your apology is accepted

Passive voice, emphasizing the acceptance.

consider your apology accepted

Implies a more thoughtful consideration before acceptance.

I forgive you

Focuses on the act of forgiveness rather than just acceptance of the apology.

all is forgiven

A more emphatic and complete absolution.

it's okay

An informal way to indicate that the offense is dismissed.

no worries

Casual reassurance that there are no lingering negative feelings.

I understand

Shows comprehension and acceptance of the situation without explicitly mentioning the apology.

let's move on

Suggests a desire to put the matter behind and continue forward.

I bear no grudge

Formal way to say that one holds no resentment.

FAQs

What is the best way to respond when someone says "apology accepted"?

A simple "Thank you" or "I appreciate that" is a good way to acknowledge their acceptance and signal your own relief and gratitude.

Is it ever inappropriate to say "apology accepted"?

Yes, if you don't genuinely mean it, or if the offense was so severe that acceptance feels dismissive. In those cases, consider a more thoughtful response.

What can I say instead of "apology accepted" if I want to sound more formal?

You could say "Your apology is accepted" or "I accept your apology". These alternatives are slightly more formal and suitable for professional settings.

How does saying "apology accepted" differ from simply saying "I forgive you"?

Saying "apology accepted" acknowledges the remorse expressed. "I forgive you" focuses more directly on the act of absolution and can carry more emotional weight.