Apologetic

/əˌpɒl.əˈdʒɛt.ɪk/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Showing or expressing regret or remorse.

After realizing his mistake, he became apologetic and offered to make amends.

Defending or justifying something as not wrong or harmful.

She gave an apologetic explanation for her absence at the meeting.

Expressing a desire to apologize.

His tone was apologetic as he addressed the misunderstanding.

Derived from the Greek word 'apologetikos', meaning 'to speak in defense'.

apologetic tone

A way of speaking that conveys regret.

apologetic response

A reply that acknowledges and expresses regret for an offense.

apology

An expression of regret or sorrow for having wronged someone.

contrition

The state of feeling remorseful and penitent.

Sorry not sorry

She was apologetic but still stood by her decision, sort of like 'sorry not sorry'.

My bad

When he realized his mistake, he just said 'my bad' with an apologetic smile.