too sorry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "too sorry" is not standard in written English and may be considered incorrect.
It can be used informally to express an excessive level of regret, but it is not commonly accepted in formal writing. Example: "I feel too sorry for what happened, but I can't change the past."

News & Media

Academia

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Oh, "you too", sorry.

The Guardian - Music

But maybe not too sorry.

The New York Times

You can't be too sorry.

The Guardian - Sport

Let's not feel too sorry for Clarkson.

Independent

"I am not too sorry," Klopp said.

The Guardian - Sport

But don't feel too sorry for her.

The New York Times

Do not feel too sorry for Minnesota.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Mitsubishi used to fall to the bottom half of the J.D. Power & Associates customer satisfaction surveys, meaning that the numbers were too sorry-looking to be published.

Forbes

(It's extensive quotation, too. Sorry about that, but one wants to do justice to investment letters of this sort).

The New York Times

(That was a fucking retarded joke, too. Sorry, Party Gay).

Vice

Don't feel too 'sorry' for us.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using stronger or more precise language to convey the specific nuance of regret or lack thereof. For example, instead of "don't feel "too sorry"", specify "don't feel any sympathy" or "don't overreact with remorse".

Common error

Avoid using "too sorry" in formal writing. Instead, use more formal and grammatically sound alternatives such as "very sorry", "deeply regretful", or "not particularly concerned".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "too sorry" functions as an adjective phrase, typically used to modify a verb or adjective related to feeling or emotion. It often indicates a judgment about the appropriateness or intensity of feeling sorry. As Ludwig AI points out, while not grammatically incorrect, it is better used in informal settings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Sports

5%

Reference

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "too sorry" is a common expression used to indicate that one shouldn't feel excessively regretful or sympathetic. While frequently used, Ludwig AI marks that its grammatical status is acceptable but not considered grammatically perfect. It's found primarily in news and media, with less frequent appearances in more formal academic or business contexts. Consider using stronger, more precise language for formal contexts to convey specific nuances of regret, or lack thereof. Alternatives such as "excessively regretful" or "overly sympathetic" may provide a clearer meaning depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excessively regretful

Focuses on the intensity of regret, rather than the absence of it.

unnecessarily remorseful

Indicates that the remorse is not warranted or is disproportionate.

excessively apologetic

Similar to 'unduly apologetic' but more direct in conveying the excess.

disproportionate regret

Indicates that the regret is not in proportion to the situation.

unduly apologetic

Highlights the inappropriate or excessive nature of apologizing.

exaggerated regret

Implies that the regret is overstated or amplified.

unwarranted remorse

Highlights that the feeling of remorse is not justified.

overly contrite

Focuses on the degree of contrition or repentance.

overly sympathetic

Emphasizes the excess of sympathy felt.

undue sympathy

Focuses on the excessiveness of the sympathy.

FAQs

What does "too sorry" mean?

The phrase "too sorry" suggests a sentiment of excessive regret or sympathy. It's often used when advising someone not to feel overly remorseful or concerned about a situation or person.

What can I say instead of "too sorry"?

You can use alternatives like "excessively regretful", "overly sympathetic", or "unnecessarily remorseful" depending on the context.

Is "too sorry" grammatically correct?

While commonly used in informal contexts, "too sorry" isn't considered grammatically ideal. Using phrases like "very sorry" or rephrasing the sentence for clarity is preferable in formal writing.

When is it appropriate to use "too sorry"?

It's generally appropriate in informal conversation and writing when you want to express that someone's regret or sympathy is excessive or unnecessary. However, it's best to avoid it in formal or professional settings.