do not apologize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do not apologize" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when instructing someone not to express regret for something they did or said. Example: "In this situation, please do not apologize; it was not your fault."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

I do not apologize.

The New York Times

"We do not apologize for the fan".

The New York Times - Sports

I do not apologize for my views or my ideology.

The Guardian

A new campaign — "I do not apologize" — got far more signatories.

The New Yorker

"I do not apologize for any aspect of the investigation," he told reporters.

The New York Times

"We do not apologize," read a sign on several doors in town.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

"We don't apologize.

The New York Times

"I started — " "Don't apologize.

The New Yorker

"Don't apologize," she said.

The New Yorker

"Don't apologize," Dan said.

The New Yorker

I don't apologize for that either.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "do not apologize" when you want to firmly express a lack of regret or intention to say sorry for something you did or said. It's useful in situations where you believe you acted correctly or have no reason to feel remorseful.

Common error

Avoid using "do not apologize" when empathy or acknowledging someone's feelings is more appropriate. While assertiveness is valuable, sometimes a genuine apology, even if partial, can de-escalate conflict more effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do not apologize" primarily functions as an imperative, instructing someone (including oneself) to refrain from expressing regret or remorse. Ludwig examples show the phrase used in various contexts, from defending one's actions to refusing to back down from a stance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "do not apologize" is a strong directive, instructing against expressing regret or remorse. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It functions primarily to assert a position or defend actions, often carrying a tone of defiance. While frequently found in news and media, care should be taken in sensitive situations where empathy is needed. Alternatives include phrases like "offer no apologies" or "I have no regrets", depending on the desired level of formality and the context. Using "do not apologize" effectively requires understanding its implications and potential impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offer no apologies

Similar in meaning, but uses a more formal tone by using "offer" instead of "do".

make no apology

A more emphatic and formal way of saying "do not apologize".

I won't say sorry

A more direct and informal way of refusing to apologize.

I stand by my actions

This phrase focuses on defending one's actions rather than refusing to apologize.

I take no responsibility

Indicates a refusal to accept blame, often implying no need for apology.

I have no regrets

Expresses a lack of remorse, suggesting there's nothing to apologize for.

no regrets expressed

Passive voice emphasizing the lack of regret from someone.

I defend my stance

Emphasizes defending a position or opinion, implying no need to apologize for it.

I stand firm

Indicates unwavering resolve, suggesting no intention to apologize or back down.

I won't back down

Shows a refusal to retreat from a position, implying no apology will be given.

FAQs

How can I use "do not apologize" in a sentence?

You can use "do not apologize" when you want to firmly state that you are not sorry for something. For example, "I "do not apologize" for defending my values."

What are some alternatives to saying "do not apologize"?

Alternatives include phrases like "offer no apologies", "make no apology", or "I have no regrets", depending on the context and the level of formality you desire.

Is it ever inappropriate to use "do not apologize"?

Yes, it's generally inappropriate to use "do not apologize" in situations where someone has been genuinely hurt or offended by your actions. In such cases, offering a sincere apology is more appropriate.

What's the difference between "I am not sorry" and "do not apologize"?

"I am not sorry" is a direct statement of a lack of regret, while "do not apologize" is a directive, telling someone not to express regret. The first is a personal statement and the second is an instruction or declaration about future actions.