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Apologetic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Apologetic means feeling or expressing regret for a mistake or offense. It describes someone who is sorry and willing to make amends, often through words or actions.

apologetic

/əˌpɑləˈdʒɛtɪk/ /əˌpɒləˈdʒetɪk/

Definition:

Expressing regret or remorse for an offense or failure.

Synonyms:

remorseful, contrite, regretful, penitent

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

unrepentant, defiant

Common Collocations:

apologetic tone, apologetic smile, apologetic letter

Derivatives:

apologetically, apologetics

Usage Tips:

Use "apologetic" to describe someone showing sincere regret for a mistake or wrongdoing.

Common Phrases:

sound apologetic, deeply apologetic, half-apologetic

Etymology:

Derived from Greek "apologetikos," meaning defensive or justifying, later evolving to express regret.

Examples:

  • 1. She gave an apologetic smile after arriving late.
  • 2. His voice was soft and apologetic when he explained the error.
  • 3. The email sounded overly apologetic for such a minor issue.
  • 4. He wrote an apologetic note to his friend for forgetting the meeting.

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