What is apologize? Pronunciation and usage in English

apologize means . Learn how to pronounce and use apologize through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of apologize

apologizeverb

/əˈpɒlədʒʌɪz/
Definition & pronunciation of apologize

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "apologize" correctly. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word is broken into three syllables: ap-ol-o-ize

2. Pronunciation Guide:

  • ap: Sounds like "ap" in "apple" (short 'a' sound)
  • ol: Sounds like "oll" - a short, quick "oh" sound like in "roll"
  • o: Sounds like "oh" - as in "go"
  • ize: This is the trickiest part. It sounds like "ize" as in "size." It's a relatively short, clipped sound.

3. Putting it together:

Say it slowly at first: "ap-ol-o-ize"

Then, gradually speed it up: "ap-ol-o-ize"

4. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don’t stress the second syllable: Many people put too much emphasis on “ol.” Keep it relatively even.
  • The ‘ize’ sound: Really focus on that short, clipped “ize” sound. It's not like the "ize" in "size" where you roll the 'r.'
  • Don't add an extra "e" sound: Some people unintentionally add an extra "e" sound at the end (like "apolog-ee-ze"). Don't do that!

Resources for Hearing It:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you a native English speaker, or are you learning?
  • Is there a specific aspect of the pronunciation you're struggling with most (e.g., the “ize” sound)?

Usage and examples with the word apologize in English

Let's break down how to use the word "apologize" effectively in English. It's a really important word for expressing remorse and taking responsibility.

1. Basic Definition:

  • To apologize means to express regret or remorse for something you've done or said. It’s a formal way of saying "I'm sorry."

2. Verb Form - How to Use it in a Sentence:

  • "I apologize": This is the most direct and formal way. It’s often used when you're admitting fault or making a serious mistake.

    • Example: "I apologize for the delay. We encountered unexpected technical difficulties."
    • Example: "I apologize for my rudeness; I wasn't feeling well."

  • "He/She/They apologize": This is the standard verb form for someone else.

    • Example: "He apologized to her for breaking her vase."
    • Example: "They apologized for the misunderstanding."

  • "Apologize to [someone]": This is a common phrasing indicating who you're addressing with your apology.

    • Example: "Please apologize to your sister."
    • Example: "I need you to apologize to the client for the missed deadline."

3. Common Phrases & Expressions Using "Apologize":

  • "I sincerely apologize...": This adds a deeper level of regret.

    • Example: "I sincerely apologize for the pain I caused you."

  • "I want to apologize...": This signals that you're about to offer an apology.

    • Example: "I want to apologize for not being available to help."

  • "I apologize for [specific action/event]": Be specific about what you're apologizing for. Vague apologies can feel insincere.

    • Example: "I apologize for interrupting you."
    • Example: "I apologize for forgetting your birthday."

  • “I am sorry to”: This is a very similar phrase and often interchangeable with “I apologize.”

    • “I am sorry to hear about your loss.”

4. When to Use "Apologize" vs. "Sorry":

  • "Apologize" is generally considered more formal and appropriate for serious situations, especially when you're taking responsibility for a mistake. It implies a deeper sense of regret.

  • "Sorry" is more casual and can be used in a wider range of situations – for minor inconveniences, expressing sympathy, or simply expressing regret.

  • Example: You might say "Sorry, I'm late" (casual). You'd likely say "I apologize for the delay" (more formal).

5. Important Considerations - It's Not Just Saying "Sorry":

  • Sincerity: An apology is only effective if it's genuine. People can tell if you're not truly sorry.

  • Taking Responsibility: Alongside the apology, it’s often helpful to acknowledge your role in what happened.

  • Offer to make amends (if possible): If appropriate, suggest how you can fix the situation or prevent it from happening again.

    • Example: "I apologize. I’ll make sure this doesn’t happen again."

Resources for More Examples:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples in different contexts?
  • Help you craft an apology for a specific situation?
  • Explain how to apologize effectively in emails or letters?

Synonyms for the word apologize

Practice with vocabulary apologize

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. After realizing her mistake, she decided to ________ to her colleague for the misunderstanding.
  2. It’s important to always ________ when you’ve hurt someone’s feelings, even if it’s unintentional.
  3. Instead of arguing, he chose to ________ for the inconvenience caused by the delayed shipment.
  4. She felt it was unnecessary to ________ for her opinion, as it was based on factual evidence.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. What should you do if you accidentally offend someone?
    A. Ignore them
    B. Apologize
    C. Justify your actions
    D. Laugh it off

  2. Which of the following words means expressing regret for a mistake?
    A. Complain
    B. Apologize
    C. Celebrate
    D. Criticize

  3. How can you maintain professionalism after making an error at work?
    A. Blame others
    B. Apologize sincerely
    C. Pretend it didn’t happen
    D. Offer a solution

  4. Which word is closest in meaning to "apologize"?
    A. Regret
    B. Explain
    C. Refuse
    D. Avoid

  5. What is the appropriate response when you’ve caused someone inconvenience?
    A. Say sorry
    B. Apologize
    C. Make excuses
    D. Offer compensation

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: "She deeply regretted her harsh words during the meeting."
    Rewrite: "She felt the need to apologize for her harsh words during the meeting."

  2. Original: "He expressed his remorse for the delay in submitting the report."
    Rewrite: "He apologized for the delay in submitting the report."

  3. Original: "They acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the rescheduled event."
    Rewrite: "They regretted the inconvenience caused by the rescheduled event."

Answer

Exercise 1:

  1. apologize
  2. apologize
  3. compensate
  4. apologize

Exercise 2:

  1. B. Apologize
  2. B. Apologize
  3. B. Apologize, D. Offer a solution
  4. A. Regret
  5. A. Say sorry, B. Apologize, D. Offer compensation

Exercise 3:

  1. She felt the need to apologize for her harsh words during the meeting.
  2. He apologized for the delay in submitting the report.
  3. They regretted the inconvenience caused by the rescheduled event.

Comment ()