In Britain, we don't just say "sorry" when we've done something wrong. We say it when we want to ask a question, when someone walks into us, or even when it starts raining!
Understanding the British apology is key to mastering social etiquette and sounding like a native. Whether you're offering a sincere regret or just using "sorry" as a polite shield, these 20 expressions are essential for your linguistic survival kit.
Below are 20 essential ways to apologise in British English. We've included clear meanings and natural examples so you can start navigating those awkward British silences with confidence. If you're feeling especially polite today, you might also like our guide on behaviour idioms.
20 Ways to Say Sorry
I'm awfully sorry
a very polite, slightly old-fashioned apology
I'm awfully sorry for being so late to the meeting.
My apologies
a formal way to say sorry
My apologies, I didn't realize this seat was taken.
Pardon me
used for small accidents or if you didn't hear someone
Pardon me, could I just squeeze past you?
I beg your pardon?
used when you didn't hear something (or are shocked)
I beg your pardon? Did you just say you don't like tea?
Sorry to trouble you
a polite way to start a question or request
Sorry to trouble you, but do you know which platform the train to London departs from?
I'm sorry, but...
used to soften a disagreement or bad news
I'm sorry, but I just don't see eye to eye with you on this.
It was my mistake
directly owning the error
It was my mistake; I gave you the wrong file entirely.
I'll make it up to you
a promise to fix the situation later
I'm sorry I missed your birthday dinner; I'll make it up to you, I promise!
No harm done
a way to accept someone else's apology gracefully
Don't worry about spilling the water; no harm done.
Water under the bridge
saying that the problem is in the past and forgotten
Let's not argue about last week; it's all water under the bridge now.
I didn't mean to...
explaining that the harm was unintentional
I really didn't mean to offend you with that comment.
Ever so sorry
a very common, slightly more emphatic informal apology
I'm ever so sorry, I totally forgot to call you back.
Forgive me
a stronger, more emotional request for forgiveness
Forgive me for being so insensitive during our talk.
I owe you an apology
a direct and mature way to start an apology
I owe you an apology for my behaviour at the party last night.
Sorry about that
a casual, quick apology for a minor issue
Whoops, I bumped your arm. Sorry about that!
My bad
modern informal slang for "it was my fault"
I forgot to buy the milk. My bad!
I shouldn't have...
reflecting on a specific wrong action
I shouldn't have snapped at you like that; I was just stressed.
Oh, sorry!
the classic British reaction to almost any social interaction
(Walks into someone) Oh, sorry! (Someone walks into them) Oh, sorry!
Deepest apologies
very formal, used for serious mistakes
Please accept my deepest apologies for the delay in your shipment.
I'm truly sorry
a sincere and heartfelt apology
I'm truly sorry for the pain I've caused you.
How to Sorry Like a Brit
In the UK, "sorry" is often used as a social lubricant. It's used to avoid conflict, to be polite, and to show that you're aware of the people around you. If you walk into someone, you say sorry. If someone walks into *you*, you usually say sorry too!
Try using ever so sorry for a natural, friendly tone, or my apologies if you want to sound a bit more professional. And remember, sometimes a quick "Oh, sorry!" is all you need to keep things running smoothly. For more advice on navigating complex social situations, why not book a private session with us?
Now you can sound natural, confident, and perfectly prepared for any "apologetic" British conversation.