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adj

apologetic

uh-po-luh-JEH-tihk

Apologetic (adj) means expressing regret or sorry for a mistake or fault. Example: “She sent an apologetic email after missing the deadline.”

adj
1
Expressing regret or sorry for a mistake or fault.
"She sent an apologetic email after missing the deadline."
"He looked apologetic as he explained why he was late."

How to Use Apologetic

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishShowing that you feel sorry or regretful about something.

Common pairings
apologetic tone apologetic smile sound apologetic

Word Forms

more apologetic comparative, apologetics plural, most apologetic superlative

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She sent an _____ email after missing the deadline.

Etymology

From Greek apologetikos, "suitable for a defense," ultimately from the same root as "apology."

Origin: Greek

Rhymes for apologetic

See all rhymes for apologetic →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “apologetic” mean?

The word “apologetic” means expressing regret or sorry for a mistake or fault. In plain terms, showing that you feel sorry or regretful about something.

How do you pronounce “apologetic”?

“Apologetic” is pronounced uh-po-luh-JEH-tihk (/əˌpɑləˈd͡ʒɛtɪk/ in IPA).

How do you use “apologetic” in a sentence?

Here is “apologetic” used in a sentence: “She sent an apologetic email after missing the deadline.”

What part of speech is “apologetic”?

“Apologetic” is an adjective.

Where does the word “apologetic” come from?

The word “apologetic” comes from Greek. From Greek apologetikos, "suitable for a defense," ultimately from the same root as "apology.".

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