How to say “I'm sorry” like a native speaker
Apologize for something or express sympathy for another person's difficulty. The context tells the listener whether you are taking responsibility.
All phrases · Polite requests
Hear “I'm sorry” in real speech
Clip 1 · Twominute English
Asking Questions in English · 3:14
About this video
Speakers in this Twominute English lesson explain questions beginning with “do”, “does” and “did”. The video combines grammar discussion with everyday dialogues, including a customer asking to close an account.
In context
Can I get your number? This way we can keep in touch.I’m sorry. My phone’s not working. I can give you my e-mail.
Sure. That would be fine.
Clip 2 · Easy British English
Conversations in English For Tourists | Easy English 233 · 0:35
About this video
An Easy English presenter in Münster, Germany, demonstrates English that tourists can use to ask for help. The conversations include finding places to eat and learning about a local market.
In context
Yes, of course. What uh how can I can help you?Excuse me, I'm sorry to interrupt your day.
Uh no problem. Uh I'm kind of new to the city um are you from here?
Clip 3 · Brené Brown
Listening to shame | Brené Brown | TED · 14:09
About this video
Brené Brown discusses shame and vulnerability, starting with how exposed she felt after an earlier talk. She considers how shame can make people withdraw from difficult conversations, including conversations about privilege.
In context
Guilt is "I did something bad."How many of you, if you did something that was hurtful to me, would be willing to say, "I'm sorry. I made a mistake?"
How many of you would be willing to say that?
When to use “I'm sorry”
- Apologizing for lateness: “I'm sorry I'm late. The bus broke down.”
- Responding to bad news: “I'm sorry to hear about your dog.”
Common learner mistake
Use “sorry for” before an -ing form: “I'm sorry for interrupting”, not “I'm sorry for interrupt”.
Possible connected-speech patterns in “I'm sorry”
“I'm” is one syllable. “Sorry” stresses its first syllable; its vowel differs noticeably between accents.
Related phrases
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