adj

apologetic

uh-po-luh-JEH-tihk

adj

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

more apologetic comparative, apologetics plural, most apologetic superlative

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She sent an _____ email after missing the deadline.

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

poetic genetic heretic kinetic ascetic magnetic cosmetic athletic diabetic pathetic copacetic aesthetic