APOLOGIES IN ENGLISHTAKEN FROM: PRAGMATICS TEACHING NATURAL CONVERSATION BY NOEL R. HOUCK AND DONNA H. TATSUKI, EDITORS ( TESOL CLASSROOM PRACTICE SERIES)

Apology strategies

DO YOU ONLY SAY “I´M SORRY”?

There are several ways to apologize. They depend on the context: 1. Expression of regret2. Offer of apology3. Request for forgiveness4. Taking responsibility

EXPRESSION OF REGRET

It is common to say and add what the regret expressed is about, a comment or express sympathy :

I´m sorry. That´s terrible news.

I´m sorry to hear that.

I´m sorry. I hope everything works out fine soon.

OFFER OF APOLOGY

When we “affect” someone, it is advisable both to offer the apology and explain, offer repair for the offense or promise forbearance from similar situations in the future:

I apologize for the delay. I missed my flight. I apologize for the inconvenience. I´ll buy

you a new one I apologize for the confusion. It won´t

happen again.

EXCLAMATIONS, INTENSIFICATIONS

The use of “exclamations” is important because they can intensify the apology

Oh, I´m sorry. My mistake. Are you O.K.?

Exclamation+ taking responsibility+ expressing concern