When you’re apologizing to someone, you have a few different options of what to say.
You can use “I’m sorry” in any number of ways:
- A simple apology (“I’m sorry I didn’t do my homework”)
- To express sympathy (“I’m sorry to hear that your dog died”)
- To express regret (“I’m sorry that I didn’t call you back”)
- To indicate sorrow (“I’m sorry, but I can’t help you with your problem”)
These are all different ways of saying the same thing—but what if you want to say something else? What if you want to say something different when you’re apologizing? Then try these other expressions!
Other Words to Say I’m Sorry
- I’m sorry you feel that way
- I’m sorry if you feel that way
- I’m sorry for your loss
- I’m sorry to hear that
- I’m sorry you had a bad day
- I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news
- I’m sorry you’re going through this
There are, however, other ways to show your support and compassion when someone needs it. Here are a few examples of things you can say when you want to express empathy for someone’s feelings:
- That sounds rough.
- I’m sorry you’re having a hard time right now.
- That sucks! I wish things could go better for you.
- I know how much that hurts!
- I’m sorry to hear that.
- My apologies.
- I’m sorry to have caused you pain/suffered inconvenience/had a poor experience due to my actions/etcetera.
- Could you forgive me?