desperately sorry

USAGE SUMMARY

'desperately sorry' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase when expressing deep regret for something that you did or said. For example: I am desperately sorry for forgetting our appointment.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

I feel desperately sorry for her.

Independent

Knight added: "I feel desperately sorry for Peter.

The Guardian - Sport

The butler said: "I'm most desperately sorry, sir, but you cannot get in touch with Mrs. Hammett until six-thirty.

The New Yorker

In an appeal hearing for a staffing issue, I feel desperately sorry for everyone involved.

The Guardian

"People would feel desperately sorry if they decided to pull it.

The Guardian

"My first feeling when I went into that house was to feel desperately sorry for this family.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

What a desperately sad, squalid and sorry business it all is.

The Guardian - Sport

"I need dollars desperately. Sorry to sound so needy".

The New York Times

Sorry sorry sorry.

The New Yorker

P.M.S.: Sorry, sorry, sorry!

The New Yorker

Sorry, sorry, sorry!

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "desperately sorry" when you want to convey a strong and sincere sense of regret or remorse. The word "desperately" intensifies the feeling, making it suitable for situations where a simple apology may not suffice.

Common error

Avoid using "desperately sorry" too frequently, as it can lose its impact. Reserve it for situations where the regret is genuinely profound. Overusing it can make your language sound insincere or melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "desperately sorry" functions as an intensifier (adverb "desperately") modifying an adjective ("sorry"). It serves to amplify the feeling of regret or remorse. As noted by Ludwig AI, this is a common and correct usage, helping to express sincere feelings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "desperately sorry" is a powerful way to convey deep regret or remorse. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. Its usage is common in news and media, as well as formal business settings, indicating a neutral to formal register. When writing, reserve this phrase for situations where a simple apology is not enough to express the depth of your feelings. While effective, avoid overuse to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "deeply regretful" or "profoundly remorseful" can provide variety while maintaining the intensity of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sincerely regret

A more formal way to express genuine regret.

profoundly remorseful

Emphasizes the depth of the remorse felt.

deeply regretful

Expresses a strong feeling of regret, focusing on the feeling itself rather than an apology.

extremely apologetic

Highlights the act of apologizing and its intensity.

intensely contrite

Focuses on the feeling of guilt and repentance.

truly saddened

Conveys sorrow and disappointment, often in response to unfortunate events.

utterly ashamed

Focuses on the speaker's feeling of shame and embarrassment.

terribly upset

Focuses on the emotional distress caused by an event or action.

bitterly disappointed

Highlights the disappointment felt, either by oneself or by others.

heartbroken

Implies a deep sense of sadness and emotional pain, often due to loss or disappointment.

FAQs

How can I use "desperately sorry" in a sentence?

You can use "desperately sorry" to express deep regret. For example, "I am "desperately sorry" for the pain I caused" or "He said he was "desperately sorry" for his mistake".

What are some alternatives to "desperately sorry"?

Alternatives include "deeply regretful", "extremely apologetic", or "profoundly remorseful". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "desperately sorry" the same as "very sorry"?

No, "desperately sorry" conveys a much stronger and more intense feeling of regret than "very sorry". "Very sorry" is a milder expression.

When is it appropriate to use "desperately sorry"?

"Desperately sorry" is appropriate when you have caused significant harm or offense and want to express the depth of your remorse. It's suitable for serious situations where a simple apology feels inadequate.