I am Sorry.
Yes, that’s right. Someone just apologized. Finally, they did.
It takes a lot of courage and maturity to own up. Even more to swallow your pride and show up to apologize. While the apology is made, what next?
What is the best response one could have?
Well, the answer is, how do you feel about the person and the apology itself. Apologies can pour in not only from romantic relationships but from any and all relationships, friends, coworkers, family, and strangers too.
They also differ widely between one word ‘Sorry’ to an elaborate ‘I don’t know why I behaved so rudely, I did not mean to hurt you’.
Words are also preceded by intent. It may come with deep-rooted regret or just under pressure to get done with it and so many more mixed emotions in between.
With so much going on, an ‘It’s okay’ in return is not really enough
Here are some of the simple and straightforward responses that convey just what is intended depending upon our state of mind and the intent of the apology.
1. I hear you.
Sometimes, it may so happen that while one apologizes, we may not be ready for it. Either the apology is half-hearted or there is a long-standing dislike that we hold against the person doing so. It is also possible that there is something that is unreconciled within our heads.
It prevents us from seeing through the situation and accepting any explanation. ‘I hear you’ is the perfect response that simply implies that one is heard. It may take time to sink in but now is not the time to discuss it further.
2. I appreciate your apology
When we are not completely settled with your thoughts but are willing to give the other person a chance to share his part of the story, this is what we could use. ‘I appreciate your apology’ It communicates acknowledgment of the struggle one has gone through to accept and apologize for their mistake.
3. I accept your apology
The person apologizing means it in the true sense of the word and we believe in him. We have also thought the situation through and are willing to reconcile. The hurt that we have suffered and the vulnerability of the other person are acknowledged and accepted. The situation finally calls for forgiveness. We may respond with, ‘I accept your apology’ and smoothly move past it.
How to forgive somebody?
We all make mistakes and often regret them. We have grown up being told not to shy away from apologizing when we are wrong. However, saying sorry is easier than forgiving.
Probably that is the reason many of us have to make special efforts to do so. It surely takes a bigger heart. But it also strengthens the bond with our loved ones.
We all seek forgiveness at some point in time. It’s good to forgive. Let us help you with words to do so.
4. It doesn’t matter
This phrase can be used when one has not committed a serious mistake. What is even better is that this response can bring back a smile on the other person’s face. They would be relieved of their guilt.
5. No problem
We can use this response when we are not really affected by the mistake. It implies, it is all fine.
6. Please don’t mention it
If it is a trivial mistake that one is apologizing for, it is better to ease them of the pressure. If you think it was just a little negligence and harmless, use this one.
7. No worries
If you believe in the intent of the person and are convinced that it was just a mistake that happened in good faith, there is actually nothing to be worried about.
8. Please do not let it happen again
This is a stern one. If you have really been put off by the offense, express your displeasure. Also, make it clear that the mistake should not be repeated.
9. You should be, but I forgive you.
We do not appreciate what happened but are willing to give the person a chance. It is a good way to look beyond the situation while also communicating the right expectation.
10. You couldn’t help it
The situation was probably an outcome of a series of unexpected events. It was completely unintentional. You understand and do not mind what happened. This is is your ideal reply.
11. Don’t worry. You don’t have to apologize.
By doing this, you actually show them that you are not blaming anyone for the situation you are in. It is you who are very well aware of what to do in such a situation. This also means you’re at least responsible to take decisions by yourself, rather than putting blame on someone else for your problems.
Have some fun with these witty responses
Forgiving or not is a choice. But why not try some clever replies to the ‘I am sorry’. Have some fun with these quick fixes, the last one is the best.
12. Next time you do it, you will be really sorry.
13. What? I am sorry, I couldn’t hear you. There is too much noise around.
14. What do you need from me?
15. Really? I am listening, go on.
16. You are slower than a snail.
17. Prove it!
18. But I have already made reservations in hell for you.
19. This isn’t over yet.
20. Talk to my hand
21 What is your best offer?
22. ‘Just stare in the eyes with a straight face’
How to make your apology work?
Follow these golden rules if you are looking forward to your apology being accepted and you be forgiven.
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Express Remorse
Apologize with the right intent. It is human to make mistakes but expressing regret for it makes you a better human. Begin by saying as well as showing you are really sorry.
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Admit Responsibility
Do not blame others for your mistake. Make things simpler for yourself by accepting your mistake rather than finding excuses to cover it up. You don’t want to annoy the other person any further. Do you?
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Make Changes
Actions always speak louder than words. Reflect upon your offensive behavior and work upon bringing a change in your mindset. Also, express the willingness to do so.
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Promise that it will never happen again
A positive change must always be welcome. It will not only have you forgiven but also get you more respect. Commit to being mindful of your actions in the future.
People hurt each other and it happens every time to everyone. Sometimes intentionally, often unintentionally. They apologize regretfully and sometimes not.
It is a part of human life. Life becomes truly beautiful when we develop the ability to heal and forgive.
Check out 20 Different Replies to Thank You
