Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[BMO]

Is it my apology or my apologies?

Thanks.

bmo

[RedRose]

[asterix]

It is very difficult for many people to say, "I am sorry". They feel that "My apologies", or "I apologise", will do. It is a euphemism.

I wrecked your car - my apologies.
I apologise for killing your mother.
I think technically, to apologise is the act of expressing regret for some action. So you are saying I am expressing regret that I killed your mother. etc., without actually expressing it.

Sorry on the other hand is the feeling of mental distress for an action you regret.
So - if you are sorry - say so.

[acadman]

The common expression is "my apologies" (countable and plural). It suggests that we wish to apologise (v.) many times - that is, to apologise very deeply.
_________________
Bruce Sommerville
English Tuition On-Line
http://www.users.bigpond.net.au/acadman/

[BMO]

Thanks, that makes sense now. I had received an email from a vendor who said "My apologies." I began to wonder perhaps one was more commonly used than the other, and now I have your answer. Thanks a lot.

bmo