Apologising and expressing sympathy in English

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Apologising phrases

Apologising to someone is saying sorry for having done something that hurt them. Below are some common expressions you can use to express your regret after doing something wrong.

1. I’m sorry.
2. I apologise for my mistake.
3. Please forgive me for what I did.
4. I’m really sorry about that.
5. My apologies for the inconvenience.
6. I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings, I’m sorry.
7. I regret my actions, and I apologise.
8. I’m sorry, it was thoughtless of me.
9. Please accept my sincere apologies.
10. I’m sorry, I didn’t realise the impact of my actions.
11. I made a mistake, and I’m sorry.
12. I’m sorry for any trouble I’ve caused.
13. I owe you an apology for what happened.
14. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to upset you.
15. It was never my intention to hurt you, I apologise.

How to accept an apology?

You can use the phrases below to show understanding and forgiveness when someone offers you an apology.

1. It’s okay, don’t worry about it.
2. I appreciate your apology, thank you.
3. No harm done, let’s move on.
4. Thanks for saying that, I accept your apology.
5. It’s all right, we all make mistakes.
6. I understand, let’s put it behind us.
7. I forgive you, let’s move forward.
8. It’s fine, I know you didn’t mean it.
9. Thank you for apologising, I appreciate it.
10. Don’t worry, I know it wasn’t intentional.
11. Apology accepted, let’s focus on the future.
12. I’m glad you brought it up, let’s move past it together.
13. It’s not a big deal, thank you for acknowledging it.
14. I appreciate your sincerity, let’s learn from this.
15. No problem, we can work through it.

Expressing sympathy

Expressing sympathy is showing care, concern, and understanding towards someone who is experiencing sadness or hardship in life. You can use the expressions below to show your support to someone you care about during their hard time.

1. I’m so sorry for your loss.
2. My heart goes out to you during this difficult time.
3. I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but I’m here for you.
4. You have my deepest condolences.
5. I’m here to listen if you need someone to talk to.
6. I’m so sorry to hear that, please know I’m here to support you.
7. That must be really hard, I’m here if you need me.
8. If there’s anything I can do to help, please let me know.
9. I’m so sorry you’re going through this.
10. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
11. It’s never easy to face such challenges, but I’m here for you.
12. I’m truly sorry you have to deal with this.
13. It’s difficult to know what to say, but I want you to know I care.
14. I can’t imagine how tough this must be for you, but I’m here to help in any way I can.
15. Please accept my heartfelt sympathies during this difficult time.

Condolence messages

Losing someone is never easy, and finding the right words can feel overwhelming. Whether you're writing a card, sending a message, or speaking to someone directly, a few kind and sincere words can bring comfort and support during difficult times.

How to write a heartfelt condolence message to a friend or loved ones

• Keep it simple and sincere.
• Mention the person who passed away by name if possible.
• Share a fond memory or a thoughtful phrase.
• Offer support (e.g., "I'm here for you" or "Let me know if you need anything").

Examples of short condolence messages

• I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family.
• Thinking of you during this difficult time. Please accept my condolences.
• Sending love and strength your way. May he/she rest in peace.
• Wishing you comfort, peace, and lots of love right now.
• May their memory be a blessing to all who knew them.

More formal condolence phrases

• My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family.
• Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
• With sincere sympathy for your loss.
• I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss.
• My thoughts and prayers are with you.

How to responds to condolences or sympathy?

You can use the expressions below to acknowledge and show gratitude for the sympathy and support offered by others when you’re going through a difficult time.

1. Thank you for your kind words.
2. I appreciate your support during this difficult time.
3. Your thoughts and prayers mean a lot to me.
4. Thank you for being here for me.
5. Your understanding and compassion are truly comforting.
6. It’s comforting to know I have friends like you.
7. Your empathy and care have helped me through this tough time.
8. I’m grateful for your friendship and support.
9. Your message brings me solace in this difficult period.
10. I’m touched by your thoughtfulness and concern.
11. Your encouragement means a great deal to me.
12. It’s heartwarming to know I have your support.
13. Your kindness has been a great source of strength.
14. I deeply appreciate your comforting words and gestures.