Apologising
Sorry
This phrase is a general short apology. We use this when we bump into people on the street. At other times, it sounds too weak
I'm (so/ very/terribly) sorry
In this phrase, we use 'so', 'very and 'terribly to make the meaning stronger. 'Terribly' is the strongest. If we use one of the words in brackets, it is stressed
Ever so sorry
This phrase is quite formal but it's a stronger apology than just 'sorry'
How stupid / careless/ thoughtless of me.
We use this phrase to criticise ourselves and the mistake that we have just made
Pardon (me)
In modern times, when people say "pardon me" or "excuse me" they are really trying to be polite and offer an apology for something that might have been intrusive or unpleasant to another person
That's my fault.
We use this phrase to take all the responsibility for what happened
Sorry. It was all my fault.
We use this phrase to take all the responsibility for what happened. It is a little stronger than 'That is my fault
Please excuse my (ignorance)
We use this phrase to apologise for our lack of knowledge or ability. We can replace the word in brackets with other nouns, e.g. carelessness, forgetfulness
Please don't be mad at me.
This phrase is asking the other person not to get angry. The tone is quite informal
Please accept our (sincerest) apologies
This phrase is often used in formal letters. The word 'sincerest makes the apology very strong and very formal
