profound apologies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "profound apologies" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a deep sense of regret or remorse for a mistake or wrongdoing. Example: "I would like to extend my profound apologies for the oversight in the report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Our profound apologies.

The New York Times

We are determined to put everything right … We offer our profound apologies to anyone affected by these errors".

The Guardian - Business

Rosemary Healy, who represents the Mapperley ward on Nottingham City Council, insisted she had not spotted what the picture was of when she sent it on to more than 1,500 followers on Twitter and expressed "profound apologies".

Independent

Ms Healy quickly deleted the tweet and posted: "Profound apologies for that retweet which was a genuine mistake and would never have been retweeted had I recognised it for what it was".

Independent

With profound apologies to Simon and Garfunkel, not to mention Joe DiMaggio, the rewritten lyrics above summarize the rationale for a new campaign for Mr. Coffee, the line of coffee makers and related products sold by the Sunbeam Corporation.

The New York Times

"Most of all, it is a chance for me to apologise and say sorry and to say that sometimes you do make mistakes and you use wrong words and once you've used that word, and you've made a mistake, you should withdraw it and say profound apologies, and that is what I have done".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

A profound apology is owed to Mr. Kushner.

The New York Times

"For all of those who have supported me over the years, I offer my profound apology".

Independent

In the event that your offices here have just blown up, accept my profound apology.

The New Yorker

I thought that the apology that I made was a very profound apology.

The Guardian

"I am writing you today to offer a personal and profound apology.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "profound apologies", ensure that your actions align with your words. Follow up with concrete steps to rectify the situation and prevent recurrence.

Common error

Avoid using "profound apologies" in trivial situations. Overusing formal apologies can diminish their impact and make you seem insincere. Reserve this phrase for significant errors or when addressing a serious grievance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "profound apologies" serves as a formal expression of deep regret or remorse. According to Ludwig, the phrase follows standard grammar rules and it is usable in written English. It is used to acknowledge a mistake or offense and to convey a sense of responsibility and contrition.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

23%

Science

10%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "profound apologies" is a formal phrase used to express a deep sense of regret or remorse. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for written English. Its primary function is to acknowledge a significant mistake or offense. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it is most frequently used in news and media contexts and formal business settings. While effective in conveying sincerity, it should be reserved for serious situations to avoid diluting its impact. When a formal apology is not required, consider using alternatives such as "sincere regrets" or "heartfelt apologies".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heartfelt apologies

Highlights the genuine emotional nature of the apology.

genuine apologies

Similar to heartfelt apologies, emphasizes the authenticity of the expression of remorse.

deepest regrets

Emphasizes the intensity of the sorrow felt.

earnest apologies

Similar to heartfelt, highlighting the genuineness and seriousness of the apology.

sincere regrets

Focuses on the sincerity of the feeling of regret, rather than the depth of the apology itself.

unreserved apologies

Indicates that the apology is complete and without any hesitation or conditions.

sincere apology

Similar meaning, focusing on the sincerity of the apology rather than the degree.

sincere remorse

Focuses on feeling of regret and sorrow for the wrongdoing.

deepest sympathy

Shifts the focus to expressing sorrow for someone else's misfortune, rather than admitting wrongdoing.

utter contrition

Highlights profound regret and penitence for one's actions, often implying a desire for forgiveness.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "profound apologies"?

Use "profound apologies" when a simple 'sorry' is not enough, such as after a significant mistake or causing substantial harm. It's suited for formal settings or when addressing serious grievances.

What are some alternatives to "profound apologies"?

You can use alternatives like "sincere regrets", "heartfelt apologies", or "deepest sympathy" depending on the specific context.

How does "profound apologies" differ from "sincere apologies"?

"Profound apologies" emphasizes the depth of remorse, while "sincere apologies" focuses on the genuineness of the regret. Both express regret, but "profound" indicates a greater magnitude of the error or harm caused.

Is it ever inappropriate to use "profound apologies"?

Yes, using "profound apologies" for minor inconveniences can sound insincere or exaggerated. It's best reserved for serious errors or situations where significant harm has been caused. In less serious situations, a simple "sorry" or "my mistake" might be more appropriate.