sorry

Feeling bad because you did something wrong or caused trouble.

• I am sorry I was late.
• He felt sorry for hurting her feelings.
• Are you sorry about what you said?

How to use it: sorry for doing something (I am sorry for breaking your cup.); sorry about something (She was sorry about the mistake.); sorry that… (I am sorry that I forgot your birthday.)

Similar words: apologetic, regretful

Common phrases: be sorry, sorry about something, sorry for something, feel sorry

Feeling sad about something bad that has happened, especially to another person.

• I feel sorry for her.
• We were sorry to hear the sad news.
• Are you sorry to see your friends leave?

How to use it: sorry for someone (I feel sorry for the children.); sorry to hear something (We were sorry to hear about your loss.); sorry that… (I am sorry that your holiday was cancelled.)

Similar words: sad, saddened

Common phrases: feel sorry, sorry for someone, sorry to hear

You say this to show regret for a mistake or something that upset someone.

• Sorry, I forgot your name.
• Sorry! I did not mean to hurt you.
• Sorry about yesterday; I was in a bad mood.

Similar words: my apologies

Common phrases: sorry about that, sorry for something, so sorry