high_frequency_chunk

UK//aɪm ˈsɒri//US//aɪm ˈsɔri//

Meaning of I'm sorry

An expression of regret or apology.

In simple words: A way to say you regret something.

I'm sorry in a sentence

  • I'm sorry for being late to the meeting.
  • If I hurt your feelings, I'm sorry.
  • I'm sorry, but I can't attend the party.

How to use I'm sorry

Used to express regret or apologize. Appropriate in both formal and informal situations; however, in very formal contexts, you might choose 'I apologize' instead.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Think of it as 'I'm sorry' sounds like wishing you could 'sore' the situation.

Related words

Collocations with I'm sorry

  • I'm sorry to hear that
  • I'm sorry for your loss
  • I'm sorry about that

Synonyms for I'm sorry

Opposites of I'm sorry

  • I'm glad
  • I'm happy
  • No problem
  • You're welcome

Common mistakes with I'm sorry

  • Using it too casually in serious situations.
  • Not following up with an explanation when needed.
  • Overusing it can make apologies feel insincere.

Compare I'm sorry with My apologies, Excuse me, Forgive me

I'm sorry appears in

I'm sorry in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about "I'm sorry"

What does "I'm sorry" mean?

A way to say you regret something.

What is the definition of "I'm sorry"?

An expression of regret or apology.

How do you use "I'm sorry" in a sentence?

I'm sorry for being late to the meeting.

Can you give another example of "I'm sorry"?

If I hurt your feelings, I'm sorry.

What are synonyms for "I'm sorry"?

Common alternatives include I apologize, my apologies, excuse me, pardon me, forgive me.

What is the opposite of "I'm sorry"?

Opposite meanings include I'm glad, I'm happy, No problem, You're welcome.

What words go with "I'm sorry"?

It commonly pairs with I'm sorry to hear that, I'm sorry for your loss, I'm sorry about that.

What are common mistakes when using "I'm sorry"?

Using it too casually in serious situations. Not following up with an explanation when needed. Overusing it can make apologies feel insincere.

How do you pronounce "I'm sorry"?

US: //aɪm ˈsɔri//, UK: //aɪm ˈsɒri//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use "I'm sorry"?

Used to express regret or apologize. Appropriate in both formal and informal situations; however, in very formal contexts, you might choose 'I apologize' instead.