B1verbUK spelling: apologiserelationshipssociety
US/əˈpɑː.lə.dʒaɪz/
UK/əˈpɒl.ə.dʒaɪz/
to tell someone you are sorry for something you did wrong
In context
I must apologize for being late to the meeting this morning.
He apologized to his sister for breaking her phone.
The airline apologized publicly after thousands of flights were canceled.
Words that go with apologize
verb + preposition
- apologize forShe apologized for the mistake in the report.
- apologize toYou should apologize to your neighbors.
verb + adverb
- apologize profuselyHe apologized profusely for the delay.
- apologize publiclyThe minister apologized publicly for his remarks.
- apologize sincerelyThe manager apologized sincerely to every guest.
- apologize immediatelyIf you step on someone, apologize immediately.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I apologize you for the delay.Correct: I apologize to you for the delay.