we are sorry for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are sorry for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express regret or apology for a specific action or situation. Example: "We are sorry for the inconvenience caused by the delay in shipping your order."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are sorry for the omission.

The Economist

We are sorry for the errors.

The Economist

"We are sorry for where we are.

The New York Times - Sports

"We are sorry for the delay".

The New York Times

We are sorry for her.

The New York Times

We are sorry for any inconvenience".

Independent

We are sorry for the inconvenience".

Independent

We are sorry for that omission.

Independent

We are sorry for any disruptions caused".

Independent

We are sorry for the confusion caused".

The Guardian

"We are sorry for this error".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are sorry for", be specific about what you are apologizing for to ensure clarity and sincerity.

Common error

Avoid using "we are sorry for" without clearly stating what you are apologizing for. A vague apology can come across as insincere or dismissive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are sorry for" functions as an apology or expression of regret. It indicates that the speaker or writer feels remorse or sympathy for something that has happened or for an action they have taken. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are sorry for" is a common and grammatically correct way to express apology or regret. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples shows it's widely used across various contexts, from news articles to scientific publications. While generally neutral in tone, its impact can be strengthened with more emphatic phrasing, like "we are deeply sorry for", or tailored to specific situations. Being specific about what you're apologizing for is crucial for sincerity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are deeply sorry for

This alternative adds emphasis to the feeling of sorrow or regret.

we apologize for

This alternative is more formal and direct in conveying an apology.

we want to apologize for

This alternative clearly states the intent to offer an apology.

we express our sincere apologies for

This alternative is a more emphatic and formal way to apologize.

we regret

This alternative conveys a sense of sorrow or disappointment about something that has happened.

we are saddened by

This alternative emphasizes the emotional impact of an event, expressing sorrow.

we feel bad about

This alternative is more informal and expresses a feeling of guilt or regret.

we are to blame for

This alternative directly accepts responsibility for an action or situation.

we take responsibility for

This alternative acknowledges accountability for something.

we are accountable for

This alternative highlights the obligation to answer for the consequences of an action.

FAQs

How can I use "we are sorry for" in a sentence?

You can use "we are sorry for" followed by the reason for apology. For example, "We are sorry for the inconvenience caused by the system outage."

What's a more formal alternative to "we are sorry for"?

A more formal alternative is "we apologize for", which is often used in professional or official communications.

What can I say instead of "we are sorry for" in an informal setting?

In an informal setting, you might say "we feel bad about" or "we regret" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between saying "we are sorry for" and "we are deeply sorry for"?

Saying "we are deeply sorry for" adds emphasis to the apology, conveying a stronger sense of regret or remorse.