Can’t Stop Saying Sorry? Try These Professional Alternatives

The best ways to apologize without saying “I’m sorry”

Co-authored by Aly Rusciano Reviewed by Seth Hall

Last Updated: January 23, 2024 Fact Checked

If you’ve clicked on this article, chances are you’re tired of saying “sorry.” Maybe you messed up at work or forgot to call a friend when you said you would. Either way, the words “I’m sorry” are on the tip of your tongue, but what if you’re over-using them? Does the situation warrant an apology, and is there a way to say sorry without actually saying it? Take a look at these professionally approved ways you can apologize in any situation.

Things You Should Know

Accept responsibility for your actions so your boss or friend knows you’re accountable.
Instead of saying “sorry,” try saying “thank you” to stay positive and accept criticism.
Let your actions speak louder than your words by not repeating the same mistake twice.

1

Accept responsibility.

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One of the best things you can do is take accountability. Whether you’ve done something wrong at work or with a friend, a great way to say you’re sorry is to take responsibility for your actions. For instance, you could say:
- “I understand that I’m responsible for missing the deadline.”
- “You’ve been there to help me, and I should’ve been there to support you.”
- “It’s my fault I wasn’t paying attention to the road.”

2

Express gratitude.

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A simple “thank you” can go beyond an apology. In the workplace, rather than resorting to the term “sorry,” try saying “thank you” instead, especially when it comes to constructive criticism. This is a great way to stay positive, accept feedback, and stop over apologizing. ^{[1]
X
Research source} If your boss informs you that you’ve done something wrong or need to improve, show gratitude without admitting guilt with:
- “Thank you for the feedback.”
- “I appreciate you bringing this to my attention. How can I improve moving forward?”
- “Thank you for being honest with me.”

3

Be appreciative.

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Stop over apologizing by showing gratitude and support. A main reason why you may be over apologetic at work is because you’re over compensating for fears or insecurities. Take each mistake and critique as a learning lesson—how can you grow stronger? Replace apologetic language with appreciative words to be capable and supportive. ^{[2]
X
Trustworthy Source
Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development
Nonprofit organization providing innovative, effective educational resources for educators designed to support student achievement
Go to source} For example:
- Say you interrupt someone at work. Rather than saying, “I’m sorry for taking up you time,” try, “I truly appreciate you taking the time to talk with me today.”
- If a colleague points out a mistake in your recent review, try saying, “Thank you for pointing that out. I really appreciate the input.”

4

Discuss the foreseeable future.

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Having the drive to change is the best apology you can make. Your desires are stronger than a simple apology. Let your boss or friend know how you plan on fixing your mistake or altering your behavior—what steps are you taking to ensure it won’t happen again? ^{[3]
X
Research source} Try saying something along the lines of:
- “In the future, I’ll be sure to contact every team member personally.”
- “Next time, I’ll make calling you my first priority.”
- “I’ll turn my phone off during class moving forward.”

Quiz

wikiHow Quiz: What Is My Apology Language?

You’ve probably heard of love languages, but what about apology languages? Developed by Dr. Gary Chapman (the creator of the 5 Love Languages) alongside Dr. Jennifer Thomas, apology languages are the preferred ways that people like to give and receive apologies. By knowing yours, you can learn how to resolve problems in a more effective and meaningful way. Take this quiz to find out.

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