be sorry for

USAGE SUMMARY

"be sorry for" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It expresses feelings of regret or remorse for something that has been done or happened. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as expressing sympathy, apologizing, or expressing regret for one's own actions. Example: I am deeply sorry for my behavior last night. I know I hurt your feelings and I regret it deeply.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Don't be sorry for me.

The Guardian - Music

You won't be sorry for having tried.

The New York Times

"We have much to be sorry for".

The New York Times

She had nothing to be sorry for.

The Guardian

There is much to be sorry for.

The Guardian

(I'll be sorry for the unemployed grief counselors, too).

The New York Times

I think  they will be sorry for what they did".

Independent

I think they will be sorry for what they did.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

I'm sorry for that".

The New York Times

We're sorry for being assholes, too".

The New Yorker

"We are sorry for where we are.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be sorry for", ensure that the object of your sorrow is clearly defined. This avoids ambiguity and ensures your sentiment is properly understood.

Common error

Avoid using "be sorry for" when a simple apology is more appropriate. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make you seem insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be sorry for" primarily functions as a verbal expression used to convey feelings of regret, remorse, or sympathy. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across various contexts. It serves to indicate that one feels bad about something that has happened or something one has done.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

16%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be sorry for" is a versatile phrase used to express regret, remorse, or sympathy. As Ludwig AI highlights, its frequent occurrence in News & Media and Wiki underscores its relevance in both formal and informal contexts. While grammatically sound, it is essential to ensure sincerity when expressing this sentiment. Alternatives such as "regret", "apologize for", and "feel remorse for" offer nuanced options for conveying similar emotions. Always consider the specific context to ensure the most appropriate expression of sorrow.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regret

A more concise way of expressing sorrow or disappointment about something.

have regrets about

A simple and direct way of stating that one has feelings of regret.

feel remorse for

Focuses on the internal feeling of regret, rather than expressing it to someone else.

apologize for

Specifically implies offering an apology for a mistake or offense.

express regret over

More formal and emphasizes the act of communicating regret.

feel apologetic about

Describes a general feeling of being inclined to apologize.

be contrite about

Highlights the aspect of feeling genuine remorse and repentance.

lament

Implies a more profound and public expression of grief or sorrow.

deplore

Suggests strong disapproval and regret regarding a situation or action.

rue the day

An idiomatic expression indicating extreme regret about a specific event.

FAQs

What does "be sorry for" mean?

The phrase "be sorry for" expresses regret, remorse, or sympathy for something that has happened or something someone has done. It can indicate an apology or a feeling of compassion.

How can I use "be sorry for" in a sentence?

You can use "be sorry for" to express regret about your own actions (e.g., "I "am sorry for" my mistake") or to show sympathy for someone else's situation (e.g., "I "am sorry for" your loss").

What are some alternatives to "be sorry for"?

Some alternatives to "be sorry for" include "regret", "apologize for", "feel remorse for", and "have regrets about". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always necessary to "be sorry for" something after apologizing?

Not always. While expressing sorrow can add sincerity to an apology, it's important that the sorrow is genuine. A simple, direct apology can be more effective than insincere expressions of regret.