Apologize: Definition, Usage, and Examples

Meaning 1：say sorry (apologize)

apologize 🔊

/əˈpɒlədʒaɪz/

To say sorry for something you have done wrong.

Apologize gesture: person bowing and saying sorry

say sorry 🔊

➕

/ˈseɪ ˈsɒri/

To express regret or sorrow for a wrongdoing, often accompanied by an admission of fault.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：Elementary

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Greek 'apologia' (defense speech), from 'apo-' (away) + 'logos' (speech).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'A polite Ology' - a polite speech to make amends.

📖 Example

After accidentally bumping into a stranger, she quickly apologized and helped pick up the dropped items. 🔊 After accidentally bumping into a stranger, she quickly apologized and helped pick up the dropped items.

🔗 Collocations

apologize to someone – to express regret directly to a person

apologize for something – to express regret about a specific action or event

apologize profusely – to apologize in a very sincere and extensive manner

🔄 Synonyms

apologise (v.) – British spelling of apologize, meaning to say sorry.

express regret (phrase) – to formally or sincerely state that one is sorry.

offer an apology (phrase) – to present a formal statement of regret.

🚫 Antonyms

blame (v.) – to assign responsibility for a fault or wrong.

accuse (v.) – to charge someone with a fault or offense.

defend (v.) – to argue in favor of oneself, refusing to admit fault.

🌱 Derivatives

apology (n.) – an expression of regret for a fault or offense.

apologetic (adj.) – expressing remorse or regret.

apologetically (adv.) – in a manner that shows regret.

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from ancient Greek legal defense speeches. In modern times, 'apologize' is central to maintaining social harmony in personal and professional interactions.