WordGarden.ioapologetic
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /əpˌɒlədʒˈɛtɪk/
US
- /əˌpɑləˈdʒɛtɪk/
Meanings
Adjective
feeling or showing regret; sorry
defending or justifying a position in a somewhat defensive way
relating to formal defense of a doctrine or faith
Beyond the definition
Imagine spilling juice on your friend's new shirt. A truly apologetic person wouldn't just say "sorry"—they would look genuinely upset, explain what happened, and offer to help clean it up. Being apologetic goes beyond a quick apology; it shows sincere regret and a willingness to make amends. You might describe a politician as "apologetic" after they've made a mistake and publicly expressed remorse. It's more than just saying the words—it's feeling them, and letting that feeling show.
To be apologetic means expressing regret or sorrow for something you have done wrong. It goes beyond simply offering an apology; it's about conveying genuine remorse through your words, tone of voice, and body language. An apologetic demeanor suggests a sincere understanding of the harm caused and a willingness to take responsibility.
The word can be used in several ways. You might describe someone as "apologetic"—for example, "He was very apologetic about missing the meeting." Or you could describe their tone or expression as "apologetic." While it is often used when repairing a relationship after an offense, it can also describe a sheepish or polite look, such as giving an apologetic smile when you have to interrupt someone.
Apologetic can also describe an awkward, self-effacing way of speaking when you feel you are bothering others or taking up space—saying "Sorry, could I just ask one quick question?" In this sense, it can sound overly polite, nervous, or a little embarrassed, even when no real wrongdoing happened.
However, be careful: sometimes people are seemingly apologetic but aren't truly sincere—offering a weak apology just to smooth things over. True apologetic behavior involves acknowledging wrongdoing and demonstrating a commitment to not repeating the mistake. You might say someone offered an "apologetic explanation," meaning they explained their actions while expressing regret.
So, when you see or hear "apologetic," think beyond a simple "sorry." It's about a heartfelt expression of remorse, responsibility, and a desire for reconciliation—a genuine attempt to make things right.
Examples
- 1
Facial expression
She gave me an apologetic smile when she realized she had taken my seat.
- 2
Missed meeting
He sounded apologetic about missing the meeting.
- 3
Service delay
The waiter was very apologetic for the long delay.
- 4
Customer email
Her email was brief but apologetic, and she offered to send a replacement.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Public statement
The company struck an apologetic tone in its statement after the mistake became public.
- Patternstrike a/an + adjective + tone
sound that way
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
- apologetics
Used with (collocations)
- apologetic tone
- apologetic smile
- sound apologetic
- be apologetic about
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- apologeticadjective