please forgive us

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "please forgive us" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking for someone's understanding or pardon for a mistake or inconvenience caused. Example: "We apologize for the delay in our response; please forgive us for any inconvenience this may have caused."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Please forgive us.

The Guardian

Please forgive us both.

The New York Times

Again she said her name, and, "Please forgive us.

The New York Times

thank you to everyone please forgive us if we have caused you any inconvenience".

The New York Times

But this is The Northerner, so please forgive us for staying 'twixt Tweed and Trent.

The Guardian

Please forgive us if we snort into our sodas when Han Solo remarks, "The Dark Side, the Jedi — it's true.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Continue to let us know when our words, behaviors and micro-aggressions get to you, but please forgive those of us who make mistakes unknowingly as we work to change our language and understandings to reflect yours.

Huffington Post

Please forgive me and use me for your purposes on Earth.

WikiHow

Jayati, please forgive me.

The Guardian

Please forgive this intrusion.

Independent

"Please forgive typos.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "please forgive us" when acknowledging a fault or oversight, particularly when addressing a group or organization affected by the error.

Common error

While appropriate in formal or serious contexts, avoid using "please forgive us" in casual conversations where a simple "sorry" or "excuse me" would suffice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "please forgive us" functions as a polite request for forgiveness. According to Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English. Examples show its use in various apologies, from minor inconveniences to more serious situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "please forgive us" is a commonly used phrase for expressing remorse and seeking pardon. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in written English. It's suitable for a range of contexts, from formal apologies to acknowledging minor errors, with primary usage in news and media, academia, and formal business communications. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the seriousness of the situation and the formality of the setting. Alternative expressions like "we are sorry" or "excuse our mistake" may be more appropriate in informal contexts. By understanding its function and context, you can effectively convey sincerity and seek understanding in your communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are sorry

A simpler and more direct expression of regret.

we seek your forgiveness

Emphasizes seeking forgiveness rather than simply asking to be excused.

excuse our mistake

Focuses specifically on acknowledging and excusing an error.

we regret this

Expresses regret about a situation.

please excuse our error

Similar to "excuse our mistake" but slightly more formal.

we beg your pardon

More formal and deferential.

apologies for the inconvenience

Focuses on the inconvenience caused.

pardon our intrusion

Used when interrupting or imposing.

we hope you can understand

Seeks understanding and empathy alongside forgiveness.

forgive us our trespasses

A more religious or archaic expression of seeking forgiveness.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "please forgive us"?

Use "please forgive us" when acknowledging a mistake or oversight that affects multiple people or an organization, indicating a sincere request for understanding and pardon.

What are some alternative phrases to "please forgive us"?

Alternatives include "we are sorry", "excuse our mistake", or "we seek your forgiveness", depending on the specific context and level of formality.

How formal is the phrase "please forgive us"?

"Please forgive us" is generally considered a moderately formal phrase, suitable for business communications, public apologies, or situations where a degree of respect and sincerity is required. In very informal settings, simpler apologies may be more appropriate.

Is there a difference between "please forgive me" and "please forgive us"?

"Please forgive me" is used when an individual is seeking forgiveness for their own actions, while "please forgive us" is used when a group or organization is seeking forgiveness for a collective action or oversight.