Distinguishing between sorry and apology: what is the difference?

We'll go deeper and learn how to use these words correctly. Let's get started!

An apology (apology) formally acknowledges wrongdoing – which may or may not be acceptable – meaning one can apologize without feeling remorse.

On the other hand, saying “I am sorry” is often considered a more genuine admission of regret. That is considered a "Sincere Apology".

We also use “I’m sorry” to express sympathy. For example, “I am sorry for your loss” can express sympathy after losing something, but we do not use “I apologize” in this case. “Apologize” is an apology only for the wrongdoing caused.

1. When to say "I am sorry"?

As mentioned above, we use “I am sorry” to express regret or remorse for our actions. Besides, we also use "I am sorry" when you want to express sympathy for someone who has experienced loss or difficulty.

Compared to Apologize, Sorry is a bit less formal but contains more emotion and empathy. However, in some cases, depending on the speaker and the listener's reception, the statement "I am sorry" can sound ironic or insincere, especially if the speaker does not Fully admit your mistake.

1.I am sorryto hear about your father’s tragic death. He was a remarkable man.

2.I am sorrythat I disappointed you when I said I wouldn’t join the trip you organized.

3.I am sorrythat I ruin your plans today.

4. I cannot tell youhow sorry I amto hear that you lost your pet.

2. When to say "I apologize"?

We say “I apologize” to officially admit that you did something wrong, whether you feel “sorry” about it or not. So even though you may officially admit that what you did was wrong, you may not feel remorse for your actions.

Often, we use sorry and apologize randomly because we think they are the same. But actually they have different meanings, for example, we say “sorry” when we feel regretful or responsible for our wrongdoing. And when we say “I apologize” it sounds more formal than saying “I am sorry”.

1.I apologizefor ruining your plans today.

2.I apologizefor disappointing you when I said I wouldn’t join the trip you organized

3.I apologizeif I made you feel uncomfortable on our first date.

4. If you think I was being rude,I apologize.

3. Conclusion

Sorry and Apologize are two words that have the same meaning and they are often used interchangeably. However, although similar, the expressions of both have their own connotations. But in general, “I am sorry” includes a feeling of regret, while “I apologize” does not.