Apologize-Sorry | Commonly Confused Words
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Sorry vs. Apologize

Sorry

/'sɔrɪ/
Used to express an apology or regret for a mistake or fault

Examples:

I am sorry to be late.Sorry, I forgot your name.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Apologize

/əˈpɒlədʒaɪz/
To express regret or say sorry for something you did wrong.

Examples:

I apologize for being late.She asked her friend to apologize sincerely.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • Apologize is an action you perform; sorry is a feeling or expression.
  • You can apologize with words and gestures, while sorry is how you express regret verbally.
  • Apologize typically involves acknowledging fault, but sorry can be used even if you aren't directly responsible.
  • If you make a mistake, you apologize to someone; if you hurt someones feelings, you say youre sorry.
  • Being sorry is an emotion, but to apologize is an act.
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