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.
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.