apologize
uh-PO-luh-jyz
Apologize (verb) means to say sorry; to express regret for a mistake or wrongdoing. Example: “I must apologize for being late; the train was cancelled without warning.”
verb
1
To say sorry; to express regret for a mistake or wrongdoing.
"I must apologize for being late; the train was cancelled without warning."
"He apologized to his sister for forgetting her birthday."
"The company apologized publicly after the data breach."
How to use apologize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo tell someone you're sorry for something you did or said.
UK vs US
British English also allows "apologise" with an "s"; American English uses "apologize."
Easily confused with
Common pairings
apologize for
apologize profusely
apologize to someone
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- apologizes
- Past tense
- apologized
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
I must _____ for being late; the train was cancelled without warning.
Etymology
From "apology" plus the verb-forming suffix "-ize," ultimately from Greek apologia, "a speech in one's defense."
Synonyms
View more →
say sorry
express regret
ask forgiveness
make amends
atone
beg pardon
apologise
rationalise
rationalize
excuse
Related words
Rhymes for apologize
See all rhymes for apologize →Frequently asked questions
What does “apologize” mean?
The word “apologize” means to say sorry; to express regret for a mistake or wrongdoing. In plain terms, to tell someone you're sorry for something you did or said.
How do you pronounce “apologize”?
“Apologize” is pronounced uh-PO-luh-jyz (/əˈpɑləˌd͡ʒaɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “apologize” in a sentence?
Here is “apologize” used in a sentence: “He apologized to his sister for forgetting her birthday.”
What part of speech is “apologize”?
“Apologize” is a verb.
Where does the word “apologize” come from?
The word “apologize” comes from Greek. From "apology" plus the verb-forming suffix "-ize," ultimately from Greek apologia, "a speech in one's defense.".
Is “apologize” a common word?
“Apologize” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between "apologize" and "apologise"?
They are the same verb with identical meaning; the difference is only spelling. "Apologize" is the standard American spelling, while "apologise" is common in British and Australian English.
Do you say "apologize to" or "apologize for"?
You apologize TO a person and apologize FOR an action. For example, you apologize to your friend for being late, using "to" before the offended party and "for" before the mistake.
What is the difference between "apologize" and "say sorry"?
Both mean to express regret for a mistake, but "apologize" is slightly more formal and complete, often implying acknowledgement of fault. "Say sorry" is more conversational and can be used for minor slips.
Is it correct to say "I apologize for the inconvenience"?
Yes, "I apologize for the inconvenience" is a standard, polite formula, especially in customer service and business writing. It expresses regret for trouble caused without necessarily admitting serious wrongdoing.
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