We’ve all been there: We said something wrong, forgot a special occasion, or messed up and made a complete disaster. In times like these, an apology is usually in order.
There are several ways you can express your remorse.
Here are a few examples:
- I’m sorry.
- Please forgive me.
- My apologies.
- Please accept my apology.
However, there is sometimes a bit of confusion between the last two.
When should you use “my apologies” in place of “my apology”?
“My Apology” or “My Apologies”?
“My apology” and “my apologies” are technically both correct, but under different circumstances.
My apologies is a way of saying “sorry” for something. It can be used as a direct substitute for “I’m sorry.”
My apology is a reference to your own apology as a noun.
Examples:
- Please accept my apologies for not being able to attend your graduation dinner.
- Michelle made her apologies for the delay and left the building.
- My apologies. I seem to have forgotten where I placed the notes you lent me.
- My apologies. I was not able to take down notes for review.
Does this mean it is incorrect to say “my apology”? Not necessarily.
When referring to your apology as a noun, my apology is acceptable.
Examples:
- Michael was not willing to accept my apology.
- The dean of the school announced my apology to the entire class.
- I expressed my apology in a letter and mailed it to her.
An apology is also a noncount noun if you’re referring to a note of apology or doing something “without apology.”
Examples:
- The company sent a letter of apology for the noise caused by the drilling of the road.
- The man stepped on my toe without an apology.
Apologize
Saying “sorry” is always a wise move when you do something wrong, but it’s important to express it properly in order to be understood by the person you have wronged.
What do you think is the best way to tell someone you’re sorry? Share your ideas in the comments below!
