Everybody knows the classic "Sorry". This term is used to ask for an apology for any reason. But there are many other alternatives. In fact, the form of the excuse may be different depending on the specific circumstances. Let's take a deeper look and see how and when to apologize. Phrases for all occasions will help you expand your vocabulary and become familiar with etiquette.

People regret that they ran into someone on the road, sneezed, stepped on their feet, corrected someone's mistake, and went outside in bad weather. Yes, they ask for forgiveness almost every minute. And not only for his own, but also for someone else's awkwardness. But they do it by different means. And they are not chosen arbitrarily.

Excuse me

This phrase is used in situations where we want to grab a person's attention and at the same time apologize for the concern. In other words, the phrase “excuse me” serves to ask for forgiveness for something else that is imperfect and, often not serious. Excuse me, can you tell me how to get to the train station?


Sorry

This is an apology for an oversight already made. For the fact that you pushed someone (accidentally or on purpose), broke something, ruined, or were rude to someone. With this phrase, we express regret for what we have done. I'm sorry! I didn’t mean to offend you.

Forgive me

This phrase carries much more weight. So, with the words "forgive me," they ask for forgiveness for some old deeds, strong grievances, betrayal, and so on. Please, forgive me! It was so stupid of me!

Apologize

Then apologize is the official option to ask for forgiveness. Usually, it is used in situations related to work moments, for example, when communicating with clients or in business correspondence. We sincerely apologize for the poor service.

Here are other phrases for formal apologies to our customers, employees, guests, and others: Please accept our apologies for any troubles.

We apologize for this inconvenience.


That was my bad!

It is used in situations where you made some kind of domestic oversight (did not close the refrigerator, left dirty dishes) some time ago, and another person noticed it now.

Who left the fridge open? - Oh, that was my bad!

That’s my fault!

This expression is used much more broadly. It is actively used in social networks and in everyday speech.

No one has told me that today is Ann’s birthday.-That’s my fault, I should say that to you.

I beg your pardon

Almost all words and expressions of "high calm" came to English from French. So "pardon" is no exception - it is an elegant way to ask for forgiveness for real gentlemen. Very close to "sorry" in use.

I beg your pardon, can you please pass me some bread?

A friendly apology

With friends, unfolded constructions with an informal shade are used, emphasizing the closeness of the relationship:

Don’t be mad at me./I am so ashamed.

Expressively and frankly criticizing yourself for wrong actions allows statements:

How careless of me. / It was my fault.

There are constructions with the help of which the offender puts himself in the place of the offended and undertakes his offense.

I was wrong to say that. If there’s anything else I can do for you, please let me know.

Finally, the culprit might respond with something like this: Thank you for being so understanding. I promise it won’t happen again.

Sorry seems to be the hardest word, sings Elton John. And it is impossible not to agree with him. Sometimes admitting your guilt and apologizing is, oh, how difficult it is. But knowing the proper words will make it much easier to ask for mercy. We wish you to make mistakes in life as little as possible. But if they are, then you can always competently and politely apologize.