apologize

Apologize is a verb meaning to express remorse for an action or offense or to seek forgiveness from someone who has been harmed. The noun form is apology. In contemporary English, apologize denotes expressing regret; the spelling apologise is used in British English and apologize in American English, with both forms understood internationally.

Etymology traces apologize to Old French apologier, from late Latin apology, from Greek apologia, meaning a speech in defense. The modern sense of expressing remorse developed in English in the early modern period, while the noun apology retains an older sense of a formal defense or justification.

Usage can be direct or indirect, spoken or written, and may target individuals or groups. Common constructions include "I apologize to you for...," "I apologize for...," and, less formally, "I'm sorry." Some phrases such as "I'm sorry you feel that way" are criticized as non-apologies when they fail to take responsibility or acknowledge harm.

Elements of an effective apology typically include acknowledging the harm, taking responsibility, expressing sincere remorse, offering restitution or remedy if possible, and outlining a plan to avoid repetition. Sincerity, specificity, timeliness, and sensitivity to the recipient’s perspective influence acceptance and the restoration of trust.

Cultural and social norms around apologizing vary. In some cultures apologies are frequent and ritualized, while in others they carry heavy stigma or are used strategically in public discourse. Language differences also shape how blame, responsibility, and remediation are framed, affecting how apologies are perceived and received.