APOLOGIES The basic form of apology is I’m sorry. However, there are several variations which make the apology more or less emphatic.
I’m very sorry. I’m so sorry. I’m terribly/awfully/dreadfully sorry.- more emphatic
Sorry. – less emphatic, often casual. Only for relatively unimportant things.
When the person to whom we want to apologize does not yet know what has happened, we often use I’m (very/so, etc) sorry but…I am afraid can be used instead of I am sorry in this type of situation.
I’m afraid means unfortunately here and functions as an apology. Excuse me (for…) is alternative here.
However, excuse me, alone (or with please) is usually either a way of indicating politely that you want to pass, at the same time apologizing for any inconvenience you may cause, or a way of attracting the attention of a person whose name you do not know
I hope you don’t mind… – when one has done something without first asking permission
In apologies the verb “apologize” may be used.
I apologize for… I must/ do apologize for formal
I beg your pardon. – formal. It is rarely used, mostly as a request for repetition.
Pardon. Sorry. – the most common form among educated people nowadays. Pronounced with a high rise. If a specific request or explanation follows, I’m sorry may be used.
Here are some possible replies to apologies:
That’s/It’s all right.That’s/ It’s quite all right. – more formal. That’s/It’s OK. – informal, casual
Don’t worry. (I’ve got plenty more). Never mind. That/it doesn’t matter. In certain situations, a less reassuring reaction may be appropriate.
Oh, you are, are you? – in reply to I’m sorry. You have, have you? – in reply to I’m sorry (but) I’ve… Being sorry won’t help. You should be more careful Polite replies to apologies for causing trouble include:
No trouble at all. That’s quite all right. I’m glad I was able to help you.
