Synonyms for

Sorry

Verb / ˈsɑ:ri: / Another word for sorry — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

feeling regret or remorseful for something that has happened or a mistake that was made

Synonyms & similar words

lamentable blue gloomy pitiful nocount dingy dismal dreary distressing drear deplorable dark disconsolate grim bad goodfornaught goodfornothing nogood sad meritless unregretful noaccount drab regretful apologetic regretful contrite repentant remorseful penitent ashamed guilty chagrined disconsolate contrite sorrowful pensive dejected melancholy woebegone downcast blue mournful sad

Synonyms by register

Formal

apologetic regretful remorseful

Informal

my bad oops whoops my mistake

Literary

penitent contrite

Antonyms

pleased glad happy joyful content delighted

Common collocations

  • so sorry
  • very sorry
  • terribly sorry
  • deeply sorry
  • I'm sorry
  • feel sorry
  • say sorry
  • excuse me

Word family

adjective sorry
adverb sorrowfully

Usage note

Often used to express regret for an action or to offer sympathy. 'Sorry' can also be used to express mild disappointment or to get someone's attention.

Example sentences

  1. I am sorry for not listening to you.
  2. She felt sorry for hurting her friend's feelings.
  3. He said sorry for being late to the meeting.
  4. My mom is always sorry when she has to discipline me.
  5. I am sorry for not studying for my test.

Quotes

  • I'm sorry for the things I said when I was hungry.
  • A sincere and warmly-expressed apology can produce the same effects as morphine on a suffering soul.
  • I'm sorry, if you were right, I'd agree with you.

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