Apologising and making amends

The idea

Name what happened, say I am sorry for the mistake, and offer a specific action.

Examples

• I sent you the wrong file.
• I am sorry for missing the meeting.
• That was my mistake, and I apologise.
• I will send the correct version now.
• Can I replace the cup I broke?
• Next time I will check the address first.

Watch out

Avoid blaming someone else or making an excuse instead of acknowledging your part.

Try it yourself

1. Complete the sentence: I am sorry ___ the delay. (for / at)

   Show answer or example answer

   for

   for introduces the reason for the apology.

2. Complete the sentence: I ___ the wrong date on the form. (wrote / write)

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   wrote

   wrote identifies the completed mistake on the form.

3. Complete the sentence: I will ___ the mistake today. (correct / borrow)

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   correct

   correct offers an action to put the mistake right.

Use it today

Apologise for a mistake and offer one concrete solution.