I am extremely sorry for hurting you yesterday and want your forgiveness. I love you. I don't know what to say but to apologize for being such a jerk. I hope you can eventually look beyond this mistake and forgive me.
Acknowledge their feelings as legitimate. Try to see things their way, and let them know you understand their hurt. For example: “I'm sorry I showed up for dinner so late. I know it made you feel unimportant, and I should have respected your time more.”
A genuine apology shows that you feel sorry for your actions and want to do better. It also gives the other person a chance to process their own feelings. You've taken the first step to fix the damage.
A phrase designed to elicit an apology from the other party, whereby the original apologizer can deflect full responsibility to that other person; usually said in a hostile or sarcastic tone and often followed by an explicit or implicit “…but this is really your fault”
Be specific. Show you understand why it was bad, take ownership, and show that you understand why you caused hurt. Don't make excuses. Say why it won't happen again.
“I am so sorry for your loss.” —Unknown. “We are with you through this difficult time.” —Unknown. “May the sorrow you feel in your heart lighten by the love that surrounds you.” —Unknown. “Hoping you feel surrounded by much love.” —Unknown.
She went to her best friend for sympathy. Letters of sympathy were sent to the families of the victims. My deepest sympathies go out to the families of the victims. Our sympathies are with them.
And above all else, really focus on what is being said to you—people need to feel that they have been heard, even when you can't give them what they are asking for or can't be of particular help. Research shows that eye contact, nodding, and smiling are the three key physical indicators of warmth.
You want to convey that you truly feel sorry and care about the person who was hurt, and promise to make amends, including by taking steps to avoid similar mishaps going forward as in the examples below.
