apology letter long

Letter of Apology • Apology Letter

Free sample letters of apology for personal and professional situations.

559 apology letter templates you can download and print for free. We have advice on writing letters of apology plus sample letters for personal, school, and business situations.

Here are the 10 most popular Apology Letters:

• Apology Letter for Behavior
• Apology And This Will Never Happen Again
• Apology Letter for Misconduct
• Apology to Pastor Repentance Letter
• Apology Letter Not Coming to Work
• Apology Letter to Get Job Back
• Apology for Addiction
• Apology for Food Poisoning
• Child Apology for Bullying
• Apology Letter for Infidelity
• Apologizing When You Don't Mean It
• How Not To Write An Apology
• Apology Letter Tips
• How to Write an Apology to Your Spouse
• Writing a Letter of Apology
• General Apology Letters
• Apology For College Tardiness
• Apology For Missing College Class
• Apology Detailing What Went Wrong
• Apology For Apologizing Too Much
• Apology For Blocking Someone
• Apology For Flaking On Group Project
• Apology For Not Attending
• Late Apology
• Apology Accompanying Partial Payment
• Apology For Additional Expense Personal
• Apology For Complaining About Expense
• Apology For Late Submission
• Apology For Rejecting Offer
• Apology For Rushing You
• Apology For Tight Budget
• Apology For Car Causing Damage
• Apology For Child Breaking Item
• Apology For Complaining So Much
• Apology For Condition Of House Or Yard
• Apology For Dog Poop
• Apology In Advance For Loud Party
• Apology To HOA
• Sorry Cannot Attend Due To Human Rights Issue
• Apology For Adding To Schedule
• Apology For Error College Admissions Process Administration
• Apology For Error College Admissions Process Student
• Apology Including Request
• Apology For Privacy Breach School
• Declining College Acceptance
• Text Message Apology
• Text Message Mass Apology
• Apology For Being Late Happy Reason
• Apology For Being Late Sad Reason
• Apology For Huge Mistake
• Apology For Video Game Argument
• Apology For Big Mistake
• Apology For Not Following Through
• Apology For Small Mistake
• Apology With Action Steps
• Apology For Gambling
• Apology For Online Miscommunication
• Apology Not Your Fault
• Sorry For Gallows Humor
• Apology For Bad Meal
• Apology For Not Coming To Party
• Apology For Not Donating
• Apology With Pledge To Donate
• Sorry You Dont Feel Well
• Apology For Missing Rehearsal
• So Sorry For Bothering You
• Apology For Dog
• Apology For Missing Appointment Waive Fee
• Apology For Not Leaving A Tip
• Apology And Offer To Avoid
• Apology For Aggressive Behavior
• Apology For Making Someone Late
• Apology For Stealing Poem
• Apology When Done Nothing Wrong
• Sorry For Bothering You
• Sorry For What I Said
• Apology For Damage To Borrowed Car
• Apology Rude On Facebook
• Blanket Apology
• Twitter Apology
• Apology For Prank
• Apology For Something You Dont Remember
• Apology To Roommate Breaking Lease
• Apology To Roommate Cleaning
• Apology To Roommate Late Payment
• Apology for Bad Driving
• Non-Apology Apology
• Apology Letter For Bad Job Housesitting
• Apology Letter For Flaking
• Apology Letter For Missing Meeting
• Apology Letter Social Media
• Apology On Twitter
• Apology for Delayed Response
• Apology for Hitting Car
• Apology Not Attending Wedding
• Apology to Landlord
• Informal Apology Letter
• Apology Letter for Late Payment
• Apology Letter for Mistake
• Blank Apology Letter
• Casual Apology Letter
• Criminal Apology Letter
• Cultural Misunderstanding Apology Letter
• Formal letter of Apology
• Insincere Apology Letter
• Letter of Apology for Delay
• Letter of Apology Examples
• Letter of Apology for Mistake
• Letter of Apology
• Mocking Apology Letter
• Sample Apology Letter
• Apology Letter for Dog Bite
• Apology Letter for Not Attending Funeral
• Apology Letter for Vehicle Damage
• Apology Letter from Church
• Apology Letter Without Admitting Guilt
• Personal Letters of Apology
• Apology For Breaking Promise
• Apology For Forgetting Anniversary
• Apology For Interrupting During Personal Conversation
• Apology For Not Being Present During Crisis
• Apology For Thoughtless Comment
• Apology For Being Toxic
• Apology For Using Wrong Pronoun
• Apology To Rebuild Trust Personal
• Apology Validating Other Person Personal
• Apology For Venting
• Apology With Promise
• Apology For Coming On Too Strong
• Apology For Crossing A Line
• Apology For Crying Wolf
• Apology For Giving Up
• Apology For Insecurity
• Apology For Leading Someone On
• Apology For Past Mistakes
• Apology For Ruining Your Life
• Apology With Gift
• Apology For Disrespecting Religion Or Faith
• Apology For Downplaying Pain
• Roommate Apology
• Roommate Apology With Request
• Apology For Dating Your Ex
• Apology For Judging And Lecturing
• Apology For Overreacting Due To Health Issues
• Apology For Overreacting Due To Personal Trauma
• Basic Apology Personal
• Regrets For Not Attending Event
• Apology For Canceling Plans
• Apology For Movie Argument
• Apology For Not Respecting Decision
• Apology For Not Stepping Up
• Apology For Persistence
• Apology For Argument Standing Ground
• Apology For Insensitivity
• Apology For Not Attending Gathering
• Apology For Political Argument Agree To Disagree
• Apology For Being Blunt
• Apology For Being Distant
• Apology For Transmitting Contagious Disease
• Sorry For Believing Lies
• Sorry For Caregiver Fatigue
• Sorry I Was Only Trying To Help
• Apology For Embarrassing Someone
• Apology For Insulting Spouse
• Apology For Not Supporting Child Fundraiser
• Apology For So Many Texts
• Apology For Spreading Illness
• Clueless Apology Letter
• Sorry For Misspelling Name
• Sorry I Forgot To Get Item
• Sorry I Woke You
• Apology For Ruining Trip
• Personal Apology For Injury
• Sorry For Losing Contact
• Sorry For Losing Your Pet
• Apology For Anxiety
• Apology For Argument About Political Leader
• Apology For Bad Joke
• Apology For Forgetting To Invite You
• Apology For Ghosting
• Apology For Not Showing Up After RSVP
• Apology For Not Showing Up For Date
• Apology For Questioning Your Judgment
• Apology For Sharing On Social Media
• Apology For Waking Baby
• Apology For Waking Someone
• Apology For Walking In On You
• Apology For Watching Show Without You
• Apology For Ignoring Person
• Apology For Not Believing Person
• Apology For Snooping
• Apology For Stealing Girlfriend
• Apology For Trigger
• Christian Apology Letter
• Sorry That I Let You Go
• Apology Didn't Visit Sick Friend
• Apology For Hurtful Language
• Apology For Lice
• Apology For Misgendering
• Apology For Political Argument
• Apology For Taking Advantage Child Care
• Apology Houseguest Ruined Something
• Apology For Accusing Cheating
• Apology For Arrogance
• Apology For Bad Date
• Apology For Bad First Impression
• Apology For Being Creepy
• Apology For Breaking Item
• Apology For Canceling Date
• Apology For Leaving Someone Out
• Apology For Lost Item
• Apology For Passive Aggressive Behavior
• Apology On Behalf Of Partner
• Apology for Drunk Text
• Apology for Everything
• Apology for Jealousy
• Apology for Not Texting Back
• Apology Letter For Being Rude To Dog
• Apology Letter For Flaking On Lunch
• Apology Letter For Flipping Out
• Apology Letter For Overreacting
• Apology Letter Spreading Disease
• Apology for Wrong Name
• Apology to Get Ex Back
• Apology to In-Laws
• Apology to Old Friend
• Apology for Bounced Check
• Apology for Noise
• Apology for Verbal Abuse
• Apology Letter for Cancellation
• Apology Letter for Cell Phone Use
• Apology Letter for Missing Appointment
• Alcoholics Anonymous Apology Letter
• Apologize Letter for Not Attending
• Apology Divorce Letters
• Apology Letter to Boyfriend
• Apology Letter for Accidental Damage
• Apology Letter for Being Tardy
• Apology Letter for Coming Late
• Apology Letter For Hurt Feelings
• Apology Letter for Not Attending
• Apology Letter for Pet Behavior
• Apology Letter Girlfriend
• Apology Letter on Behalf of Child
• Apology Letter to Child
• Apology Letter to Ex
• Apology Letter to Grandparent
• Apology Letter to Husband
• Apology Letter to Wife
• Child Apology to Friend
• Letter Apology for Absence
• Letter of Apology � Personal
• Letter of Apology to a Friend
• Letter of Love Apology
• Neighbor Apology Letter
• Apology Letter Breaking Trust
• Apology Letter for Forgetting
• Apology Letter for Lost Item
• Letters of Apology for Misbehavior
• Apology For Accidentally Taking Item
• Apology For Illegal Dumping
• Apology For Poaching
• Apology For Laundry Room Etiquette
• Apology For Misbehavior On Airplane
• Apology For Parking In Wrong Spot
• Apology For Spoiling A Movie Or TV Show
• Apology For Theft
• Apology For Personal Misstep
• Apology For Disregarding Public Health Guidance
• Apology For Downplaying Pandemic
• Apology For Spreading Covid
• Apology For Cultural Appropriation
• Apology For Hurtful Behavior
• Apology For Forgetting Dietary Restrictions
• Apology For Forgetting To Check
• Apology For Forgetting To Pick Someone Up
• Apology For Using Leverage
• Sorry For Dismissing Pandemic Concerns
• Sorry For Exposing To Virus
• Sorry For Hoarding Products
• Sorry For Not Following Health Guidelines
• Sorry For Violating Shelter-In-Place Orders
• Apology All My Fault
• Apology For Being Insensitive
• Apology For Making Fun
• Apology For Outburst
• Sorry For Being Curt With You
• Sorry For Being Defensive
• Sorry For Falsely Accusing You
• Apology For Clogging Toilet
• Apology For Invading Privacy
• Apology For Mansplaining
• Apology For Wedding Behavior
• Sorry For Being A Jerk
• Sorry For Being Mean
• Sorry For NSFW Message
• Apology For Allergen
• Apology For Bad Housesitting
• Apology For Borrowing Without Asking
• Apology For Insult
• Apology For Insulting Your Child
• Apology For Insulting Your Ex
• Apology For Being Lazy
• Apology For Body Slamming
• Apology For Bringing Up Painful Subject
• Apology For Abandoning Child
• Apology For Abandoning Partner
• Apology For Affair
• Apology For Avoiding Someone
• Apology For Cursing
• Apology For Emotional Affair
• Apology For Racist Comment
• Apology For Running Over Pet
• Apology For Temper
• Apology for Bad Apology
• Apology for Joke
• Apology for Offensive Behavior
• Apology for Offensive Tweet
• Apology Letter Alcoholic 12 Steps
• Apology Letter Alcoholic Step 9
• Apology Letter Yom Kippur
• Apology Letter Yom Kippur Betray Trust
• Apology Letter Yom Kippur Bad Behavior
• Apology for Getting Angry
• Apology for Offending Someone
• Apology to Victim
• Apology to Victim Family
• Apology for Assault
• Apology for Fire Alarm
• Apology for Gossip
• Apology for Graffiti
• Apology for Harassment
• Apology for Sexual Harassment
• Apology for Talking in Class
• Apology for Trespassing
• Apology for Vandalism
• Apology Letter For Drunkenness Funny
• Apology Letter for Plagiarism
• Apology Letter for Teasing
• Apology Letter for Unfaithfulness
• Apology Letter to Friend for Rudeness
• Apology to Pastor Church Disruption
• Apology Letter to Principal for Absence
• Apology Letter to Principal for Rule Breaking
• Insincere Apology Letter for Plagiarism
• Insincere Apology Letter for Shoplifting
• Apology Letter for Cheating
• Apology Letter for Shoplifting
• Apology Letter for Stealing
• Apology Letter to Judge
• Apology Letter to Police
• Car Accident Apology Letter
• Child Apology to Teacher
• Letter of Apology to a Teacher
• Letter of Apology to Teacher
• Letter of Apology to the Court
• Teen Apology to School
• Apology Letter False Accusations
• Apology Letter for Flirting
• Apology Letter for Libel
• Apology Letter for Slander
• Apology Letter for Telling a Secret
• Workplace Letters of Apology
• Apology For Interrupting During Meeting
• Apology For Oversight At Work
• Apology For Taking Credit For Idea
• Apology Letter From Boss
• Apology For Joint Workplace Project
• Apology For Additional Expense Business
• Apology For Quitting Job
• Apology For Short Notice
• Apology For Not Being More Clear
• Apology For Adding To Workload
• Apology For Bothering You Again
• Apology For Going Over Budget
• Apology For Not Understanding Technology
• Apology For Proofreading Error
• Apology For So Many Emails
• Apology For Technology Failure
• Apology For Wrongly Ordering Item
• Apology For Zoom Incident
• Sorry For Forgetting Video Call
• Sorry For Inappropriate Behavior Video Call
• Sorry For Stressful Workplace
• Apology For Going Home Early
• Apology For Not Completing Clerical Task
• Apology For Not Preparing For Meeting
• Apology For Sending Package Late
• Sorry For Not Being A Team Player
• Sorry I Thought You Were Working On That
• Apology For Backstabbing Coworker
• Apology For Missing Deadline
• Apology For Mistake Can Fix
• Apology For Mistake Can't Fix
• Apology For Eating Your Office Food
• Apology For Giving Unauthorized Interview
• Apology For Reply All Email
• Apology For Work Dress Code Violation
• Apology For Taking Client
• Apology Didn't Receive Email
• Apology For Copyright Violation
• Apology For Work Mistake Need Help
• Apology For Workplace Politics
• Apology Lying On Resume
• Apology Shared Company Secret
• Apology Working Slowly
• Apology For Bad English
• Apology For Crying
• Apology For Procrastination
• Apology For Typos
• Apology For Wrong Information
• Apology For Wrong Name Email
• Apology for No Show Interview
• Apology for Oversleeping
• Apology for Work Mistake
• Apology Letter For Assuming
• Apology Letter For Resigning Volunteer Position
• Apology for Insubordination
• Apology for Unprofessionalism
• Apology to Professor
• Apology Letter Declining a Job Offer
• Apology Letter to Boss
• Apology Letter to a Boss
• Apology Letter to Client
• Apology Letter to Lecturer
• Professional Apology Letter
• Apology Letter Email Error
• Apology Letter for Hacked Account
• Apology Letter to Employer Second Chance
• Apology Letter to Former Employer
• Sample Letters of Apology from a Business
• Apology For Customer Service
• Apology For Data Breach
• Apology For Delayed Product Launch
• Apology For Manufacturing Flaw
• Apology For Miscommunication With Client
• Apology For Misleading Advertisement
• Apology For Product Recall
• Apology For Website Technical Issues
• Apology To Rebuild Trust Business
• Apology Validating Other Person Business
• Apology For Quality Issue
• Apology For Bad Hair Cut Or Color
• Apology For Bad Manicure
• Apology For Damage
• Apology For Installation Issue
• Apology For Unsanitary Conditions
• Business Raising Rates With Apology
• Raising Premiums With Apology
• Raising Rent With Apology
• Senior Level Apology
• Apology For Delay Due To Volume Of Orders
• Apology For Holiday Delays
• Apology For Privacy Breach Business
• Basic Apology Business
• Third Party Apology
• Apology For Business Closure
• Apology For Cancelling Event
• Apology For Cancelling Order
• Apology For Cancelling Reservation
• Apology For Injury At Business
• Apology For Late Delivery
• Apology For Rude Employee
• Apology For Allergen Restaurant
• Apology For Dress Code Enforcement Mistake
• Apology For Inconvenience
• Apology Didn't Return Phone Call
• Apology For Inaccurate Bill
• Apology For Professional False Promise
• Apology For Server Outages
• Apology On Behalf Of Staff
• Apology To Library
• Apology for Double Charge
• Apology for Hotel Overbooking
• Apology for Overbooking Pre-Arrival
• Apology for Overcharge
• Apology to Bad Review
• Apology to Guest
• Apology Letter For Low Rating
• Apology Letter For Misleading Customer
• Apology Letter For Missing Medical Appointment
• Apology for Defective Product
• Apology for Long Wait Time
• Apology for Unsolicited Email
• Apology to Candidate
• Apology to Patient
• Apology to Unsatisfied Customer
• Apology for Construction Noise
• Out of Stock Apology Letter
• Apology Letter from Airline
• Apology Letter from Airline Compensation
• Apology Letter for Copyright Infringement
• Apology Letter for Customer
• Apology Letter from Business
• Apology Letter from Hotel
• Apology Letter in Business
• Apology Letter to a Customer
• Apology Letter to Employee
• Letter of Apology Business
• Letter of Apology to Customer
• Letter of Business Apology
• Apology Letter for Damaged Goods
• Apology Letter Wrong Address
• Apology Letter Wrong Item Shipped
• Child Letters of Apology
• Child Apology Disruptive Behavior
• Child Apology For Cyberbullying
• Child Apology For Forging Parent Signature
• Apology For Missing Class
• Apology For Late Thank You Note
• Apology For Lying About Grades
• Apology For Lying About Money
• Apology For Not Completing Distance Learning Homework
• Apology For Arguing Child
• Apology For Sneaking By Child
• Apology For Cutting Class
• Sorry I Didnt Do Chores
• Apology For School Dress Code Violation
• Apology For Child Social Media
• Apology For Student Absent Vacation
• Child Apology Rude To Parents
• Apology for Egging House
• Apology Letter For Falling Asleep In Class
• Apology Letter For Not Doing Homework
• Apology Letter Yom Kippur Child
• Child Apology for Being Mean To Sibling
• Child Apology for Cursing
• Child Apology to Classmates
• Child Apology to Substitute Teacher
• Child Apology for Name Calling
• Child Apology Fill In The Blank
• Child Apology for Disrespect
• Child Apology for Hitting
• Child Apology for Lying
• Child Apology to Parent
• Apology Letter for Bad Attitude
• Apology Letter for Forgery
• Apology Letter for Wasting Time
• Public Apology
• Apology For Serial Harassment
• Apology For Wrongful Conviction
• Mass Apology Letter
• Public Apology For Lying
• Public Apology For Mockery Or Rudeness
• Apology For Retweeting
• Apology For Embezzlement
• Apology For Political Colleague
• Belated Apology
• Athlete Apology for Cheating
• Celebrity Apology for Arrest
• Political Apology for Action
• Political Apology for Statement
• Public Apology for Affair
• Apology Responses (NEW)
• Response Apology Academic Discipline
• Response Apology Amends
• Response Apology Crime Acceptance
• Response Apology Crime Rejection
• Response Apology Work Discipline
• Response Apology Offer Basic Personal
• Response Apology Offer Declined
• Response Apology Forgiven
• Response Apology Need More Time
• Response Apology Not Accepted
• Response Apology Not Necessary

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How to Write a Thoughtful Apology Letter (Inspiring Examples)

By Status.net Editorial Team on October 13, 2023 — 14 minutes to read

• Understanding Apology Letters Part 1
• Components of an Effective Apology Letter Part 2
• Professional Apology Letter Template Part 3
• Business Apology Letter Template Part 4
• Professional Apology Letter Template (Workplace Mistake) Part 5
• Apologizing to Your Manager: A Professional Email Example Part 6
• Coping with Customer Complaints: Apology Email Example Part 7
• Offering Compensation: Example Part 8
• Delivering a Third-Party Apology: Example Part 9
• A Formal and Sincere Apology Template with Example Part 10
• Writing a Personal Apology Letter Part 11
• Personal Apology Letter Template Part 12

Part 1 Understanding Apology Letters

Why apology letters matter.

Apology letters hold significant importance because they help mend relationships and restore trust. When you make a mistake or hurt someone’s feelings, sending a sincere apology letter demonstrates that you genuinely regret your actions and wish to make amends. Having a well-written apology letter can improve the chances of forgiveness, reduce tension, and pave the way for an improved relationship.

The Art of Apologizing

Mastering the art of apologizing is crucial for maintaining healthy relationships.

• The first step in writing an effective apology letter is acknowledging your mistake. Be honest about what you did wrong and take responsibility for your actions. It shows that you recognize the impact your mistake had on the other person and their emotions.
• Next, express your remorse and convey that you are truly sorry for your actions. It’s important to ensure your apology comes across as genuine; insincere apologies can often make matters worse. Focus on the feelings of the person you hurt, letting them know you understand their emotions and the consequences of your actions.
• Finally, offer a solution or ways to make amends. This could include making changes in your behavior, rectifying the issue you caused, or offering support to the affected person. Commit to taking steps to prevent a similar situation from happening again in the future.

When you follow these guidelines for writing an apology letter, you have a better chance at being forgiven and strengthening the bonds with those you care about.

Part 2 Components of an Effective Apology Letter

Writing an apology letter can be a thoughtful way to express your remorse and show that you truly wish to make amends. There are specific components that can make your letter more effective and genuine. These elements include:

Step 1. Acknowledging Your Mistake

When addressing a mistake, it’s important to be upfront and take responsibility for your actions. Clearly describe the wrongdoing and try not to make excuses, as this demonstrates your sincerity. For example:

“I apologize for missing our appointment yesterday. I understand I caused you inconvenience, and I should have managed my time better.”

Step 2. Expressing Regret

In addition to acknowledging your mistake, express your regret or remorse for the situation. This is a critical part of the apology, as it shows that you empathize with the feelings or difficulties your actions may have caused to the other party. For example:

“I’m truly sorry for any trouble I’ve caused you. I realize that my actions have led to disappointment and frustration on your end, and I wish I could take them back.”

Step 3. Offering A Solution

Finally, it’s important to provide a solution or a plan to rectify the mistake. This demonstrates that you are willing to take steps to ensure it doesn’t happen again and helps in rebuilding trust. Be specific about what you can do, but also be realistic with your commitments. For example:

“To make it up to you, I would like to reschedule our appointment at a time that’s convenient for you. I will work on improving my time management to prevent similar situations in the future.”

Keep these components in mind when crafting an apology letter, and your message will come across as sincere and heartfelt.

Templates and Examples of Apology Letters

Part 3 professional apology letter template.

When addressing a workplace issue, ensure that your professional apology letter remains respectful and follows a formal tone. Accept responsibility and outline your plans to rectify the situation:

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to apologize for [the mistake or action that caused the offense]. It was my responsibility to [prevent the mistake], and I acknowledge the negative impact it had on you and our team.

I take this matter seriously and am taking the necessary steps to correct the issue. [Include steps you are planning to take or have taken.] I am confident that we can learn from this experience and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Please accept my sincerest apologies, and if there is anything further I can do to make this right, please do not hesitate to let me know.

[Your Name]

Part 4 Business Apology Letter Template

When extending apologies to customers or clients on behalf of your company, use a polite and sincere tone. Address the issue directly and briefly mention any steps you are taking to rectify the situation:

We would like to express our deepest apologies for [the mistake or action that caused the offense]. At [Your Company Name], we pride ourselves on [company values], and this incident is not reflective of our commitment to providing exceptional customer service.

In response to this situation, we have taken the following steps to rectify the issue: [include steps taken or planned to prevent similar incidents]. We believe these measures will help improve our service quality in the future.

Again, we apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and appreciate your understanding. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

[Your Name] [Your Position in Company]

Part 5 Professional Apology Letter Template (Workplace Mistake)

Dealing with workplace mistakes.

Mistakes at work happen, and when you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, it’s important to address the issue promptly. A professional apology letter is a great way to express your regret and take ownership of your mistake. Start by acknowledging your mistake and be specific about the incident. Next, express your regret and take responsibility for the consequences of your actions. Make sure to offer solutions and steps to prevent similar mistakes in the future:

I am writing to express my sincere apologies for the mistake that I made [insert specific incident]. It was an error on my part, and I take full responsibility for it.

I understand that my mistake has caused inconvenience and frustration, and I am truly sorry for any negative impact it may have had. I want to assure you that I am committed to making things right and preventing similar mistakes from happening in the future.

To rectify the situation, I have [insert solution or action you are taking]. I am also willing to work with you and the team to ensure that we are all on the same page and that we can move forward together.

Again, please accept my apologies for any trouble caused. I value our working relationship and hope that we can continue to work together positively in the future.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Part 6 Apologizing to Your Manager: A Professional Email Example

Apologizing to your manager.

When apologizing to your manager, be sincere and direct. Begin your letter with a clear statement of your intention to apologize, and acknowledge the issue that occurred. Remember to express your regret sincerely, and outline the actions you’re taking to rectify the situation:

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to acknowledge my recent actions [or insert specific incident] and the impact they may have had on the project and the company. I take full responsibility for my actions and understand the importance of rectifying the situation and preventing similar incidents from happening in the future.

To address the issue, I am taking [insert solution or action you are taking]. I am also open to working with you and the team to ensure that we are all aligned and moving forward together.

Thank you for your understanding and for the opportunity to learn from this experience.

Part 7 Coping with Customer Complaints: Apology Email Example

When dealing with customer complaints, it’s vital to address the situation promptly and professionally. Start by acknowledging what happened and offer a sincere apology. Make sure to show empathy and understanding towards the customer’s experience:

Dear [Customer’s Name],

We apologize for the inconvenience you experienced with our service. We understand how frustrating this must have been for you, and we’re committed to making it right.

Then, outline the steps you’ve taken or plan to take to resolve the issue. This will demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction and reinforce trust in your business:

We’ve investigated the situation and discovered that [explanation of problem]. To prevent this from happening in the future, we will [steps to improve the issue].

Part 8 Offering Compensation: Example

In certain cases, offering compensation may be necessary to make amends and restore customer goodwill. Consider the severity and impact of the issue when deciding whether compensation is warranted. If you choose to offer compensation, be specific about what you’re offering and how the customer can claim it. For example:

As a token of our apology, we’d like to offer you [compensation, such as a refund, discount, or free service]. To claim this compensation, please [instructions to claim the compensation].

Remember that compensation is not always monetary; sometimes, a simple gesture like providing a free upgrade or extending a warranty can go a long way in demonstrating your willingness to make it right.

Part 9 Delivering a Third-Party Apology: Example

There may be situations where your business must apologize on behalf of a third party, such as a vendor or partner. In these cases, it’s still important to address the issue and apologize to the affected customers. Acknowledge the role your business played in the situation, and explain the steps you’re taking to prevent it from happening again:

We apologize for the [issue caused by the third party], which we recognize has impacted your experience with our business. While this issue was beyond our direct control, we understand that we are accountable for the partners we choose, and we promise to improve our supplier selection process.

Following these guidelines, your business apology letter will set the foundation for rebuilding trust with your customers and maintaining a positive reputation for your company.

Part 10 A Formal and Sincere Apology Template with Example

_______________________________

[1. Acknowledge the mistake and provide a sincere expression of regret] [2. Explain the situation, avoiding excuses or blame] [3. Discuss steps you’re taking to address the issue/resolution] [4. Offer a solution, amends, or compensation if appropriate] [5. Close with your commitment to prevent a recurrence of the issue]

“Dear Mr. Johnson,

I am writing to apologize for the delay in delivering the project report that was due last week. I understand that this delay has caused inconvenience to you and your team, and I take full responsibility for it.

I want to assure you that this delay was not intentional, and I deeply regret any negative impact it may have had on your business. The delay was due to unforeseen circumstances that were beyond my control, but I understand that this does not excuse the situation.

Moving forward, I am taking steps to ensure that this does not happen again in the future. I have put in place a new system that will allow me to better manage my workload and ensure that deadlines are met on time.

If there is anything else that I can do to make up for the inconvenience caused, please let me know. I am committed to doing everything in my power to make things right.

Once again, I apologize for any inconvenience caused, and I appreciate your understanding and patience.

John Doe”

Part 11 Writing a Personal Apology Letter

In this section, we’ll focus on crafting the perfect personal apology letter.

Apologizing to Family

When apologizing to a family member, sincerity is key. Start by acknowledging the wrongdoing and express remorse for your actions. You can start with something simple like, “I realize that I hurt you when I [specific action], and I’m truly sorry for that.”

Next, take responsibility for your actions. Admitting your mistake demonstrates maturity and a genuine desire to make amends. For example, “It was thoughtless of me to [specific action], and I understand how it affected you.”

Offer a solution or a concrete way to make amends. This step shows you’re committed to improving your relationship. You could say, “I promise to be more mindful of your feelings in the future, and I hope we can work together to rebuild our relationship.”

Be open and willing to listen to their feelings and concerns. This will help you better understand their perspective and take any necessary steps to rebuild trust.

Writing an Apology Letter to a Friend

When apologizing to a friend, you’ll want to keep the same principles in mind. Begin by acknowledging the hurt you caused them and express genuine remorse. Use specific examples where you can, such as, “I know I let you down when I didn’t show up to your birthday party, and I’m truly sorry for that.”

Take responsibility for your actions and any wrongdoing on your part. An example might be, “I should have planned better and made your celebration a priority, instead of allowing other things to get in the way.”

If applicable, offer a solution or a way to make it right: “I’d love to take you out for a special meal to celebrate your belated birthday and make up for not being there.”

Be ready to listen to your friend’s feelings and concerns, and make an effort to rebuild trust through your words and actions.

Part 12 Personal Apology Letter Template

A personal apology letter works best when you want to express regret towards a friend or family member for something you did. Keep it concise, genuine, and focus on your feelings during the apology.

I am truly sorry for [the mistake or action that caused the offense]. It was not my intention to [cause the negative impact]. I understand how it made you feel, and I want you to know that your feelings are important to me.

I take full responsibility for my actions and will do everything in my power to make it right. [Include possible solutions or ways to make amends, if applicable.]

In the future, I promise to be more mindful of my actions and consider how they will affect you. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be included in an apology letter to a customer.

When writing an apology letter to a customer, you should first acknowledge the issue and express your sincere regret. Apologize for any inconvenience or disappointment the customer may have experienced. It’s also important to take responsibility for the situation and explain the steps you will take to rectify it. Offer a solution or compensation if appropriate, and close by expressing your commitment to providing excellent customer service in the future.

How can I craft a heartfelt apology letter to a teacher?

To write a heartfelt apology letter to a teacher, start by acknowledging your mistake and expressing genuine remorse for your actions. Explain why your behavior was wrong and what you’ve learned from the experience. You should also describe how you plan to improve and avoid making the same mistake in the future. Be specific, sincere, and respectful throughout the letter, and show genuine gratitude for the teacher’s dedication and understanding.

What are the key elements of an apology letter to a friend?

The key elements of an apology letter to a friend include acknowledging the wrongdoing, expressing genuine remorse, and offering amends or a solution. It’s also important to consider the feelings of your friend and empathize with their perspective. Demonstrate that you understand the impact of your actions on your friendship and express your desire to rebuild trust and strengthen your bond. Close the letter by expressing your appreciation for their friendship and your hope for reconciliation.

How can I make a convincing apology letter to a family member?

To craft a convincing apology letter to a family member, begin by acknowledging the mistake you made and expressing sincere regret. Be specific about what happened and how it affected your relationship. Show empathy for your family member’s feelings and express understanding for the hurt you’ve caused. Offer a solution or plan for addressing the issue and discuss how you’ll prevent it from happening again. Finally, reiterate your love and commitment to your family member and express your hope for moving forward together.

What are some tips for writing an apology letter to my boss?

When writing an apology letter to your boss, it’s important to be professional, respectful, and straightforward. Acknowledge your mistake and express genuine remorse. Be concise in your explanation, focusing on the impact of your actions and the steps you will take to correct the situation. Offer solutions or potential ways to rectify the issue and demonstrate your commitment to improving your performance. Lastly, express your gratitude for the opportunity to learn from the experience and your dedication to your job.

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How to Write an Impressive Apology Letter

Millie Dinsdale

“I said something I wish I hadn’t.”

“I really messed up.”

“I upset someone and I regret it.”

Humans are not perfect. We make mistakes—but we can also own up to those mistakes to atone for them.

That’s where an apology letter comes in.

Writing an apology letter shows that you recognize your mistake and allows you to ask for forgiveness.

Asking for forgiveness is a difficult but inevitable part of life. But how do you do it? We will break down how to write an effective apology letter in this post.

What Is an Apology Letter?

What should you include in an apology letter, what are the different types of apology letter, how do you write a business apology letter, how do you write a third-party apology, how do you write a mass apology letter, how do you write a personal apology letter.

At its most basic, an apology letter is a letter which says sorry.

But it’s not that simple. Often saying sorry is not enough.

Sorry is not a catch-all phrase for any mistake. If you accidentally spill someone’s drink, sorry is a perfectly acceptable response (you might also buy them a replacement!). But if you inadvertently cause someone to lose their job, the word sorry is not enough.

In this case you’ll probably need to apologize, own up to your mistake, suggest a solution, and only then ask for forgiveness. Writing an apology letter is a good opportunity to cover that content.

Before we look at the different types of letters, there are a few things that you should do in each one.

1) Acknowledge Your Mistake

You should start every letter by explaining why you’re writing. An apology letter is no different.

By acknowledging your mistake, you can both own up to your error and inform the reader what the letter is about.

Acknowledging your mistake will let the reader know that you are sincere and that you are seeking forgiveness. It is important to acknowledge your mistake straight away—by not doing so, you can annoy the other person and make the situation worse.

For example, if you broke your friend’s favorite mug at work, you should go straight to them and explain your mistake instead of squirreling it back into the cupboard for them to find later.

2) Apologize for Your Mistake

Now that you have stated your mistake it is time to apologize. Although sorry sums up what you are trying to say, it is sometimes better to be more specific.

Explain why you are sorry and acknowledge any negative outcomes from your mistake.

For example: if you accidentally lost an important document, acknowledge the extra work the person had to do and the stress that this loss must have caused.

Taking full responsibility is the best way to approach an apology, so try not to shift the blame onto anyone or anything else.

It is also best to avoid excuses if you can. Excuses can aggravate the situation and detract from your apology.

3) Share Your Plan to Resolve the Issue

It is all well and good to apologize, but what can you do to improve the situation? Let’s look at our previous example. Although there is nothing you can do about the lost document, you can promise that it will not happen again.

To convince your reader that your promise is not just empty words, you could present an action plan, like this:

I will create a physical backup folder for all documents in the future.

In addition to this, I will save all documents to an independent hard drive which I will leave at work. This means that they will stay safe, even if I lose my laptop.

4) Ask for Forgiveness

Asking for forgiveness is very important because it hands control of the situation over to the reader.

It also acknowledges that there are pieces of the relationship which need to be repaired. If you wanted to, you could take the opportunity to invite your reader to suggest their own solution before they forgive you.

This will help the person to feel like their opinions have been heard. It will also help you to understand the effect that the mistake had upon them.

For example:

I want to ask for forgiveness for my error. Are there any further steps I can take to ensure that this never happens again? I hope we can resolve this and continue to work together.

There are four main types of apology letter:

Business Apology Letter

Third-Party Apology Letter

Mass Apology Letter

Personal Apology Letter

Each category has multiple usages.

For example, if you needed to write to your neighbor due to a disagreement, that would be a personal apology letter.

If you were writing to your boss after making a mistake, this apology letter would fall under the business category .

A business apology letter could be addressed to a client, a partner, a supplier, another firm, a partnered retailer, or stakeholders.

A business apology letter should be:

Be clear about the purpose of the e-mail and do not skirt around the point. Avoid any vague language as it will undermine the purpose of the letter.

Straight to the point

Business professionals receive multiple e-mails a day. If you waste their time with unnecessary words you may annoy them further rather than placate them.

Professional

Match the professional tone normally adopted by your company or business sector. If you are unsure what language to use, err on the side of caution. It is far better to be too formal than not formal enough.

Focused on a solution

Instead of focusing your e-mail on the problem, focus on the proposed solution which will put a positive twist on the letter without ignoring the issue.

As a result your business will be presented in a better light and you will have a higher chance of repairing your professional relationship.

Dear [insert customer name], We’re sorry we weren’t able to deliver your product on time. COVID-19 has caused a significant impact to our supply chain and has made restocking difficult. We understand your frustration and we are doing all we can to prevent any future incidences of this kind. While this does not make up for any inconvenience caused, we would like to offer you a 20% discount on your next order Please let me know if you have any other concerns or questions. Sincerely, [Name], [Title]

When Should You Write a Business Apology Letter?

You could address a business apology letter to a colleague, a boss, a customer, a supplier, or anyone else related to your place of business.

Here are a few examples of situations where a letter of apology might be needed:

If you have a problem with your supply chain and need to delay a delivery.

If you forgot an important meeting and arrived unprepared.

If you had to take a day off at the last minute meaning that a colleague has to take up extra work.

A third-party apology letter is one in which the writer is apologizing on behalf of someone else , such as a letter from a manager to a customer on behalf of an employee who behaved rudely.

A third-party apology letter should be:

Clearly directed

In the first line, let the recipient know who is writing and on behalf of whom. Explain why you are writing, and not the guilty party.

This may sound obvious but third-party apology letters need to be handled very carefully. Not only do you need to apologize for the actions of the perpetrator, you also need to apologize that the letter is not coming from them and likely apologize for your part in the situation, even unintentionally.

The recipient is not frustrated with you personally, so try to build and maintain a relationship with them. Treat the letter as an olive branch and take full advantage of the fact that you can shift blame.

Example of a third-party apology:

Dear [insert name], We’re Chad’s parents, and we would like to apologize for Chad’s behaviour yesterday which resulted in Jen being bitten. We fully intend on having Chad apologize to Jen himself, but as his parents we wanted to add some context to the situation and also say we’re sorry as well. Chad often gets overstimulated, and we think that might have caused yesterday’s tragedy. He looks forward to his playdates with Jen, which leads us to believe that this is a one-off incidence. Nonetheless, his behavior is unacceptable and we have given him a strong talking to on why what he did was wrong. He has also been grounded, and will write an apology letter to Jen. Once again, we are truly sorry for any distress this may have caused. Yours sincerely, Bod and Sharon (Chad’s parents)

When Would You Require a Third-Party Apology Letter?

A third-party apology letter is required in one of two cases:

• If the person at fault is unable to write an apology themselves.
• If it is inappropriate for the person at fault to write the letter and it would be better for someone else to write it.

Examples of this second type are:

If a customer at a restaurant was abusive to another customer, the manager may wish to write an apology on behalf of the restaurant.

If a child bit another child at preschool the parent may wish to write an apology to the other parent.

If a dog was noisy and kept waking up next door’s baby, the owner may wish to write an apology to the parents.

A mass apology letter is one in which many people have been affected by a single issue. A mass apology letter should be:

Many people will need to read this letter so it should get to the point as quickly as possible. Make a sincere apology, and then say how you will fix the situation.

Use basic terminology and grammar to ensure that everyone can understand the meaning. You can use ProWritingAid’s Readability Report to identify any hard-to-read paragraphs. To achieve this, you should aim for a reading level that is suitable for a 5th grader or below.

Try the Readability Report with a free ProWritingAid account.

When Would You Require a Mass Apology Letter?

Mass apology letters are usually written by someone with responsibility for the care or experiences of a large group of people. It's important to strike the right tone so that you can maintain your authority and trust with the recipients.

Here are some instances in which you might need a mass apology letter.

To consumers if one of your products needs to be recalled after an issue was detected.

To residents if there was an avoidable power cut in your housing stock.

To parents if students were given the wrong information about upcoming exams.

Example of a mass apology letter:

Dear People of Townsville, On Friday, November 19, 2021 the city of Townsville was without electricity for four hours as a result of an overloading of the city’s grid. This was not scheduled, and therefore required an emergency response. We understand how difficult this must have been for you the citizens, particularly the business owners. We’d like to offer our sincerest apologies for the inconvenience caused, as well as any disruptions. We take incidents like this very seriously, and our team is already refining our maintenance schedules in order to avoid similar events in the future. We remain committed to ensuring that we sustain the high standard of service delivery that we hope you expect from us. Best, The Team at ABC Electrical

If you are writing your apology letter to friends, family, neighbors, relatives, acquaintances, or even strangers, and if it doesn’t serve or include a commercial purpose, you’re writing a personal apology letter.

A personal apology letter should be:

Conversational : Keep the tone informal to avoid sounding pompous and false. Make a direct apology to the recipient without hiding behind complex language.

Full of remorse : Unlike in the previous example, it is advised that you express your own emotions about the situation. It is important that the recipient believes you are truly sorry.

Focused on the relationship : The most important thing is to limit the damage that your mistake causes to your personal relationship with the person so make it clear that you care.

When Would You Require a Personal Apology Letter?

A personal apology letter is probably the most versatile type on this list. Almost any apology that is not directly related to your work will require this form of apology.

Examples of when this type of apology might be appropriate are:

When you broke your mom’s favorite ornament with a bouncy ball.

If you lost your friend’s guinea pig whilst looking after it.

If you crashed into your neighbor’s garden wall and damaged it.

Example of a personal apology letter:

Dear Mrs. Steel, I’m really sorry for running over your garden gnomes the other day. My dad was teaching me to drive and I mistakenly touched reverse instead of forward. I’d be happy to replace them, though that may not happen immediately. I’ve taken a summer job at the mall and I’m committed to saving every penny so I can buy them back. I hope you find it in your heart to forgive me. Best, Ash

Should You Write a Letter, Text, or Call to Apologize?

When it comes to business, third-party, and mass apologies, letters and e-mails are the only way of doing things professionally.

A personal apology may feel stilted or unnatural as a letter and may be better delivered by text, phone call, or even in person. It totally depends on the situation and your relationship with that person.

The way that an apology is delivered is just as important as the content of it, so give this question some thought.

However as a general rule:

E-mail or letter :

If you are only acquaintances or if there is a large age gap between you and the other person. For example , if a 14-year-old cycled over her 67-year-old neighbor’s flowers, an e-mail or letter apology would be best.

If the mistake was minor and you are friends with the person or a similar age. For example , a student accidentally smashed another student’s mug.

If the mistake was bigger and you are friends with the person. This can also be a good option for family members when you cannot see them in person. For example , someone forgot their grandma’s birthday and the card arrived late.

In person :

If the mistake was major and it is a friend or family member that you can reasonably visit. For example , someone had a big argument with their best friend and realized afterwards that they were totally out of line.

I sincerely apologize that I can’t write your letter for you. But that doesn’t mean that we can’t help. You can always revisit this article if you need a refresher.

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Millie is ProWritingAid's Content Manager. Aa an English Literature graduate, she loves all things books and writing. When she isn't working, Millie enjoys adding to her vast indoor plant collection, dancing, re-reading books by Daphne Du Maurier, and running.

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APOLOGY LETTER TOOL KIT SAMPLE LETTERS OF APOLOGY FOR YOU TO USE

Our apology letter tool kit is THE place to find free samples and examples of apology letters for almost every personal and business situation.

So if you need to say sorry, you've come to the right place!

While our main website has several apology letter templates, they may be too complicated for some people. They’re more suitable for serious infractions and situations and require a little more effort to customize them to make them fit your specific situation.

The apology letters you'll find in our tool kit below are much easier to use. You can simply copy & paste them and use the placeholders to personalize them to your liking in no time!

Personal Apology Tool Kit Letters

• Apology Letter to Hotel Guest
• Apology for Sexual Harassment
• Apology for Email Sent by Mistake (Friend)
• Apology Letter for Lying
• Sorry Letter for Best Friend
• Apology Letter to Best Friend
• Apology Letter to a Friend or Acquaintance
• Emotional Sorry Letter for Boyfriend
• Emotional Sorry Letter for Girlfriend
• Apology for Late Response
• Apology for Verbal Abuse

Love & Marriage Tool Kit Letters

• A Wife Apology Letter
• Beautiful Apology Letter To Wife
• Apology Letter To A Lover
• 4 Apology Letters for Being Jealous

Business Related Tool Kit Letters

• Apology Letter for A Company Mistake
• Apology Letter for Technical Issues
• Apology Letter for Not Coming To Work
• Email Sent by Mistake: Apology for Business Relationships
• Apology Letter for Misrepresentation
• Letter of Apology to Customer
• Customer Apology Email
• Proactive Apology Email to Customer
• Business Apology Letter to Customer
• Customer Apology Letter for Inconvenience
• Apology for Bad Customer Service
• Apology for Delayed Response

Apologies Directed to People of Authority

• Apology Letter To Supervisor for Absence
• Apology Letter to Principal
• Apology Letter to a Teacher from a Student
• Apology Letter to a Teacher from a Parent
• Apology Letter to a Substitute Teacher
• Sorry Letter for a Teacher | 4 Examples
• Apology Letter to the Court
• Apology Letter to a Police Officer

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How to Write An Apology Letter: Tips, Guidelines, and Apology Letter Examples

Are you wondering how to write an apology letter? Maybe your professional relationship with a work colleague has gone sour, or maybe you spoke without thinking in a conversation with a friend or family member. If a simple “sorry” won’t cut it, you can show your sincere regret by expressing your apology in writing.

This article explains how to write an apology letter, including how to craft an effective introduction and conclusion. It also contains apology letters examples that can help you get started on your own.

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What is an apology letter.

An apology letter is a written document or an email that acknowledges a mistake, expresses remorse, and asks the recipient for pardon or patience. It is a relatively formal letter, and it should assure the recipient that the mistake won’t happen again.

What Are the 4 Elements of an Apology Letter?

• Say you’re sorry. When writing a letter of apology, you should include a clear “I’m sorry” statement. Don’t beat around the bush or leave your recipient wondering why you’ve written. Give a direct apology.
• Acknowledge responsibility . In an apology letter, you must acknowledge your mistake. First, explain what occurred: the person you wronged needs to know that you understand what you said or did and why it was hurtful to them. Then take full responsibility for your actions and state that you know that what you did or said was wrong. This can make your apology stronger.
• Explain how you’ll make it better. Saying you’re sorry is a key step because it shows your regret and remorse. But taking proper action to make things right again is just as important. You need to explain what you’re going to do to fix the situation and ensure it doesn’t happen again in the future.
• Ask for forgiveness. One of the last moves in your apology letter is to ask for forgiveness. Remember, before you ask for forgiveness, you need to promise that the unwanted or bad behavior will not happen again.

How to Write an Apology Letter: Beginning and Ending

As in all types of writing, knowing how to begin and end an apology letter is paramount. Here’s some guidance on crafting two crucial parts of any apology letter: the introduction and the conclusion.

How to Begin an Apology Letter

The best way to start an apology letter is by saying you’re sorry. Get it out there right at the start. Saying you’re sorry and acknowledging that what you said or did was wrong are the first two steps in any apology.

How to End an Apology Letter

The best way to conclude an apology is to ask for forgiveness. When you do that, you’re giving the other person the option to accept the apology and restore your relationship. This also shows that you value the relationship and are committed to making it work. Two common closings in an apology letter are “sincerely” and “best regards.”

How to Write an Apology Letter: 5 More Useful Tips

Keep Your Word

Stay true to your word if you claim you won’t repeat your mistake. Be ready to back up your words with action and keep any promises you made. This will show people that your apologies are sincere.

Show Genuine Interest

You can show genuine interest in the other person by writing a sincere, genuine apology. By showing sincere regret and concern, you can mend fences with those you’ve wronged.

Don’t Excuse Yourself

When writing an apology, don’t make it about yourself. Don’t write about why you did what you did. Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes and ask yourself why they would feel the way they do. Definitely don’t justify your actions. This is a common mistake.

Don’t Focus on How You Feel

Similarly, when writing an apology letter, don’t focus on how you feel. You can seem self-centered and make a bad situation worse. A letter of apology should demonstrate your empathy for the other person.

Ask for Forgiveness

Asking for forgiveness is one of the best ways of showing genuine grief. By asking for forgiveness, you show vulnerability. A small amount of vulnerability can go a long way toward demonstrating that you mean what you say.

Apology Letter Examples to Help You Get Better at Apologizing

Apology letter examples can inspire you if you’re not sure where to start. There’s a wide range of different types of apology letters. For example, you may find yourself apologizing to a friend or family member or to upset customers in a customer service role. Your apology may also be handwritten, typed and printed, or sent as an email .

Apology Letter Example 1: Apology Letter to a Boss

Dear Mr. Moran:

I am writing to you to express my regret for my mistake. I emailed our client the wrong materials. I apologize, and I recognize the difficulties that my careless oversight must have caused the company.

I know that an apology cannot undo my error. However, I am writing this letter to express my regret for the mistake I made as a result of my negligence. I had no ill intent when I was carrying out my duties. Please accept my sincerest apologies and rest assured that I will exercise additional caution in the future.

Best regards,

Bruce Paige

Apology Letter Example 2:  Apology Email to a Colleague

I truly apologize for deleting the project files. I want to be clear that it was an accident and happened as a result of my carelessness, and I sincerely regret it.

I accept full responsibility for this event, which caused problems not only for the company but for you as well. I met with the manager and explained that this was my mistake, not yours.

You can be sure that I’ll be extremely careful in my future work. 

I look forward to working with you again.

How to Use Apology Letter Examples to Write Your Own 

By studying these apology letter examples and following their structure and approach, you can improve your apology writing. You’ll know how to write an effective apology letter on your own after a few tries. Remember to incorporate the tips and elements of apology letters discussed in this article.

If you need to improve your writing skills, you can also visit Purdue OWL , where you can find many writing tips. You can also get better at writing if you start writing every day .

Everyone has moments of poor judgment. Letters of apology can mend fences with coworkers, upset customers, friends, family members, and others. We hope this article has helped you learn more about how to write a successful apology.

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How to Write an Apology Letter FAQ

A good apology is a sincere apology. In a genuine apology, you will notice that the person at fault admits to their errors and attempts to correct them if they can. Even if the person can’t do anything to undo the mistake, an effective apology letter will communicate genuine regret.

You can get better at apologizing by practicing self-affirmation. An article published in The Journal of Experimental Social Psychology states that self-affirmation reduces defensiveness and increases the comprehensiveness of apologies . Again, everyone has moments of poor judgment. Making a mistake doesn’t mean you’re a bad person.

People write apology letters to repair relationships with people in their lives they may have wronged. In a high-stress work environment, it can help to develop and maintain effective work relationships .

It’s okay to apologize by text, but it’s better to deliver an apology in person or write a formal apology. It takes more time and effort to apologize in one of these ways, which demonstrates your sincerity and the importance that you ascribe to your relationship with the other person.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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5 Tips for Writing an Apology Letter

4-minute read

• 14th November 2021

So, you’ve messed up—either personally or professionally—and need to say sorry? You could write an apology letter to ask for forgiveness. But how do you write an apology letter or email ? We have five top tips to share, covering:

• How to structure an apology letter.
• The need to take responsibility for your actions
• How to avoid exaggeration that could seem insincere.
• The need to keep your letter concise (two or three paragraphs at most)
• The importance of proofreading your apology letter before sending it.

We will also include an example apology email at the end of the post. For more on how to write an effective apology letter or email, read on below.

1. The Structure of an Apology Letter

An apology letter can usually be broken down into three main sections:

• Opening section: To start your letter, acknowledge your mistake and describe the incident involved so the recipient knows what you’re referring to (and that you understand the consequences of what you did). Make sure you include the words “I’m sorry” or “I apologize” in the opening lines.
• Middle section: Share your plan to fix the mistake. If it isn’t possible to correct it this time, show how you’re willing to improve in the future, which will reassure the recipient that you’re taking this episode seriously.
• Closing section: Ask for the recipient’s forgiveness and/or patience. Don’t be afraid to show vulnerability by again admitting blame. Letting down your defenses should help to bring closure to the incident.

Try to follow this basic structure when planning your apology letter or email.

2.  Take Full Responsibility for Your Actions

It’s crucial not to shift blame or make excuses for your mistakes. It’s easy to say, “I’m sorry, but…,” but this doesn’t count as a genuine apology.

Likewise, it could seem insincere if you use the passive voice (e.g., “Mistakes were made…” rather than “I made a mistake…”) or only apologize for how others perceived your actions and not for the actions themselves (e.g., “I’m sorry you were upset by my actions…” rather than “I’m sorry for my actions…”).

Be prepared to fully and unequivocally take responsibility for your actions.

3. Don’t Exaggerate

While it’s important to express your regret in an apology letter, don’t exaggerate! If you overdo it, such as by claiming that your actions were monstrous and you don’t deserve forgiveness when all you did was break a colleague’s favorite mug by accident, your apology will seem insincere.

All you need to do is make it clear exactly what you’re apologizing for and that you are sorry. Don’t take responsibility for other errors that may have happened that weren’t your fault. Also, don’t mistake behavior (“I made a mistake”) for character (“I am a bad person”). This isn’t an exercise in self-criticism.

4. Be Clear and Concise

An apology letter should be short and to the point. Ideally, stick to two or three short paragraphs, only setting out the bare essential information required.

Likewise, make sure to use simple language. Overly complex expressions of regret could be confusing (or seem like you’re showing off).

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To make sure your letter reads well, you may need a friend or colleague to read it through. Alternatively, you could try our professional editing services .

5. Proofreading Your Letter

Typos or other errors in an apology letter may make it seem insincere or that you don’t think apologizing is very important. Before sending it, then, make sure to proofread it carefully so you can be sure it reads well.

It can even help to get a professional involved at this point. Our expert team of proofreaders can ensure the tone of your letter is suitable and correct any spelling, punctuation, vocabulary, and grammar errors. If you’d like to give our services a try, moreover, you can submit a free sample document for proofreading today.

An Example Apology Email

Dear Jonathan and Lisa,

I’m so sorry for forgetting to come to your engagement party. It was a complete oversight on my part—I had forgotten to put the event in my calendar. I know you had catered for me and were looking forward to seeing me, and I feel awful about it.

Your friendship is important to me, and I have now written your wedding date in my calendar so as not to repeat my mistake. I’m also considering upgrading to an electronic calendar so that it doesn’t happen again.

I’m sorry—I know this oversight upset you both, and I really regret it. Please forgive me. I promise to do better in the future.

With best wishes,

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• Letter Writing

How to Write an Apology Letter

Last Updated: April 12, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Tami Claytor . Tami Claytor is an Etiquette Coach, Image Consultant, and the Owner of Always Appropriate Image and Etiquette Consulting in New York, New York. With over 20 years of experience, Tami specializes in teaching etiquette classes to individuals, students, companies, and community organizations. Tami has spent decades studying cultures through her extensive travels across five continents and has created cultural diversity workshops to promote social justice and cross-cultural awareness. She holds a BA in Economics with a concentration in International Relations from Clark University. Tami studied at the Ophelia DeVore School of Charm and the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she earned her Image Consultant Certification. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,092,244 times.

While apologizing in person often conveys more sincerity, there are times when a formal, written apology might be your only option or could otherwise be the preferred method. To write an apology letter, you'll need to address your error early in the letter, acknowledge the other party's hurt feelings, and accept full responsibility for your part in the matter. In many cases, you'll also need to offer a solution that will fix any underlying issues related to the original problem. If you want to make sure that your apology is effective and doesn't cause even more hurt, aim for both clarity and sincerity while you write.

Sample Apology Letters

Forming Your Apology

• Say something like: “I wanted to write you a letter to apologize for what i did”.

• Say something like: “What I did last weekend was horribly inappropriate, disrespectful, and wildly selfish . Your wedding is supposed to be all about your happiness and celebrating your love. By proposing to Jessica, I turned that focus on to me. I tried to steal your moment and that was wrong.” [3] X Research source

• Say something like: “Jacob told me that my actions ruined not only your experience of your wedding, but also are now making your honeymoon less than the incredible experience that it should be. I hope you understand that that was never my intention. I wanted you to be able to look back on this time and remember only happy things but I have ruined that with my selfish actions. I've robbed you of those happy memories. While I can't truly know how this feels to you, I can certainly understand that what I did was one of the worst things I could possibly have done to you.”

• Say something like: “This is an especially terrible thing for me to have done to you after how warmly you have accepted me into your family. You have not only shown your incredible, beautiful love to my brother, but you have also shown me support and kindness that I never could have possibly expected. To hurt you in this way was an insult to all the things that you have done for me and I hate myself for that.”

• Say something like: “I would try to offer an explanation for what I did, but there are no excuses. My intentions, though good, don't matter here: only my poor choices. I absolutely take responsibility for my selfish actions and the terrible pain I have caused you.”
• Don't make excuses for your actions but you can explain your reasoning very carefully. If you really feel like it's needed or would make the situation better, you can explain why you made the choice that you made. This should be done only if you think understanding your choices would give the person you hurt some comfort.

• Say something like: “But just being sorry isn't enough. You deserve better. When you come home, Jessica and I would love to throw a big welcome-home party in your honor. This will be the party to end all parties and it will be 100% devoted to celebrating the incredible love you share with my brother. If you would rather not do this, that's fine: I just want to find some way to help you create the incredible, happy memories that I took away from you. ”

• Say something like: “I can’t expect your forgiveness, though I certainly hope for it. All I can say is that I truly want things to be okay between us. I want you to feel okay and eventually even happy when you're around me. I want to earn back the wonderful relationship that we had. Hopefully, in the future, we can find a way to move past this and create happier times together.”

Apologizing Correctly

• "Mistakes were made..."
• "If" statements like "I'm sorry if your feelings got hurt " or "If you felt bad about this..."
• "I'm sorry that you felt that way."

Formatting Your Letter

• You'll also need to adjust the syntax of your letter to sound formal and better fit the situation.

Expert Q&A

• Simply say what you mean and mean what you say. Sincerity is key. If you make a promise, stick to it. Thanks Helpful 77 Not Helpful 13
• You may have to bury your pride when you apologize. Pride gets you nothing; good relations can often become priceless. Thanks Helpful 74 Not Helpful 14
• Make sure that your letter is not too short. Just two or three sentences will not do the trick here. Show the person that you put time and effort into this letter. Thanks Helpful 70 Not Helpful 21

• Don't add anything that makes the person feel bad. They will not take the letter to heart, and probably won't forgive you. Thanks Helpful 51 Not Helpful 13
• Remember that sorry doesn't magically fix everything. If the other person decides not to forgive you, move on and know that you tried. Thanks Helpful 10 Not Helpful 3

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://gallaudet.edu/student-success/tutorial-center/english-center/writing/how-to-write-letters/how-to-write-apologies/
• ↑ Tami Claytor. Etiquette Coach. Expert Interview. 16 February 2022.
• ↑ https://news.osu.edu/the-6-elements-of-an-effective-apology-according-to-science/
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/apology-letter/
• ↑ https://ggia.berkeley.edu/practice/making_an_effective_apology
• ↑ https://www.yourdictionary.com/articles/write-apology-letter
• ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/making_peace_through_apology
• ↑ https://www.plainlanguage.gov/resources/content-types/writing-effective-letters/
• ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-art-of-a-heartfelt-apology-2021041322366
• ↑ https://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article/honest-apologies-can-help-leaders-organizations-rebound/
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/professional_technical_writing/basic_business_letters/index.html

About This Article

To write an apology letter, start by explaining right away that you're writing to apologize so the recipient isn't confused. Then, go on to explain what you're apologizing for and acknowledge that what you did was wrong. Let the person know that you understand how your actions have affected them, and accept responsibility for what happened. When you're writing your letter, avoid making excuses for what you did or your apology may not seem sincere. Finish your letter by offering to make things right in any way you can. If you want to learn more, like how to correct your actions with promises that you can keep, continue reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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• Your Apology Letters

I Am Sorry For All My Mistakes :'(

by R (Canada)

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Return to Love & Marriage.

Write a Personal Apology • Example Letters, Guides and Samples

Write this brief letter as soon as possible after the incident. Focus on actions you are taking to rectify the situation, rather than on the damage you may have caused. A sincere, well-worded apology coupled with action goes a long way toward patching up a damaged relationship.

How to write this apology letter:

• Begin with a straightforward apology that refers to the offense.
• Acknowledge the reader's frustration.
• If applicable, mention any specific steps taken to correct the problem. You may want to explain how the offense happened, but do not blame someone else.
• If your apology concerns a problem you were unaware of, thank the reader for bringing it to your attention.
• End with a positive statement and offer some form of compensation or restitution, if appropriate.

Example Letter #1

I feel I must apologize to you personally for misquoting your comment on the bond issue. I know how frustrating it can be to work hard for a cause and then have it misrepresented to those who will benefit most from it. The misunderstanding came when we transcribed your comments from a damaged tape recording of your talk Thursday evening.

As soon as we realized we had made a mistake, we printed an explanation and clarification of your position and gave each student a copy to take home. We are also printing a retraction in the local newspaper. I apologize for the misunderstanding and wish you success with the bond issue.

Example Letter #2

My comments about your withdrawal from the project were inexcusable. I realize that I do not know all the issues.

Sometimes I am too quick to comment before having all the facts. Had I known about your accident, I surely would have held my tongue.

I promise to be more considerate in the future.

Example Letter #3

I apologize for my most inappropriate behavior at your dinner party. I realize you were counting on a relaxing evening, and my lack of restraint must have taxed you greatly. Please understand that this is not my normal mode of behavior. I hope you will accept these flowers as a token of my apology, and consider joining me for a relaxing dinner party at my home in the near future.

Example Letter #4

Please accept my sincere apology for the disagreement we had yesterday afternoon. I am truly sorry if I offended you. When I feel passionately about an issue, I sometimes express my ideas and feelings too strongly, and I'm afraid that's what happened yesterday. Even though we have different opinions in this area, I want you to know that I respect your point of view and I enjoy discussing issues with you. I hope you will forgive me. I don't want our friendship to be affected negatively by this disagreement.

Example Letter #5

I am so sorry I missed our appointment last Tuesday morning. It must have been very upsetting for you to make all the effort to get to my office on time, only to have me fail to arrive. Unfortunately, my daughter was involved in a car accident, and everything else simply slipped my mind.

Would you prefer to reschedule next time you are in Springfield, or simply speak on the phone? I will be visiting Centerville during the week of June 10, and we could arrange to meet then if you like. In any case, when we do meet, let me take you out to lunch. I look forward to hearing from you.

Example Letter #6

This is very embarrassing for me to have to admit, but I simply cannot find the book you lent me. I have searched everywhere I can think of, but it seems to have disappeared. I'm very sorry, John, particularly as you warned me that it is out of print. I have contacted all the second-hand bookstores in town, and they have agreed to look out for it, and Doe Books also told me about a book search service located in Springfield. I am waiting to hear back from them.

I will keep on trying until I locate another copy in good condition for you, but in the meantime I ask you please to accept my sincere apologies.

Write Your Letter Step-by-Step

1 Begin with a straightforward apology that refers to the offense.

Sample Sentences for Step 1

• I apologize for failing to return your phone call.
• I feel I owe you an apology for my insensitive comment last night.
• I am sorry I missed our appointment on Tuesday.
• I am very sorry I forgot your birthday. I always look forward to celebrating your birthday, so I was devastated when I realized I had forgotten it.
• I am sorry for the way I acted at your party last night. I could tell that you had put a lot of work into making sure everyone was having a good time. Everyone was--until my unfortunate comment.
• I am sorry that the information I gave you was inaccurate.
• I apologize for not acknowledging your excellent performance in helping secure the Doe contract.
• I apologize for any inconvenience my lateness may have caused.

Sample Phrases for Step 1

• apologize for any inconvenience I may have caused
• apologize for the damage to
• apologize for not acknowledging your excellent performance in
• apologize for the damage my daughter did
• apologize for my inattention that caused
• apologize for this inconvenience
• by no means meant to
• deeply regret that
• don't have an excuse for the delay, but I am truly sorry
• extremely sorry that
• feel very bad about the damage to
• hope you will forgive the long delay in
• hope you can forgive
• let me apologize for not returning your
• owe you an apology for not returning them sooner
• please accept my deepest apologies for
• please let me apologize for
• please forgive me for not writing
• please accept my sincerest apologies for the delay
• please excuse my delay in thanking you for
• regret that I shattered your beautiful
• sorry about the damage to your
• sorry that I didn't see
• sorry that I damaged
• sorry about the carelessness that caused
• sorry I didn't return your book sooner
• sorry I didn't check with you before the
• sorry for the way I acted at your party last night
• sorry I forgot your birthday
• sorry that I didn't return your phone call
• sorry I missed our appointment on
• sorry that the information I gave you was inaccurate
• very distressed about

2 Acknowledge the reader's frustration.

Sample Sentences for Step 2

• Thank you for the way you handled the incident at the time. I am sure what I said must have been embarrassing. You showed remarkable restraint in quietly asking me to leave.
• I understand that such inconveniences can be very frustrating. Thank you for your patience.
• Jane, I know you were looking forward to our lunch date as much as I was.
• I know what it is like to have a no-show for an important appointment, so I sincerely appreciate your patience with me.
• I know it can be extremely frustrating when you have worked hard on a project only to see other people get the recognition.
• I can imagine how upset you must have been. I am grateful for the restraint you demonstrated after the incident.

Sample Phrases for Step 2

• after all you had done to
• can imagine how upset you must have been
• did not get the recognition you deserve
• don't blame you for feeling
• grateful for the patience you showed
• have experienced similar frustration with
• have had to put up with
• have admirable self-restraint
• imagine it can be pretty annoying to
• know what it is like to be
• know you were really looking forward to
• know it can be extremely frustrating when
• must be extremely disappointed in
• must be very angry
• must have frustrated you terribly
• others do not understand what
• realize you work hard to
• realize that it must be difficult to
• realize that this caused
• showed remarkable restraint
• spent a lot of time
• sure this caused a great inconvenience
• thank you for the way you handled the incident
• the oversight was inexcusable
• thoroughly justified in being upset at
• try to understand your frustration
• understand your displeasure with
• understand that such inconveniences can be
• very kind in the face of
• was embarrassing for both of us
• what I said must have embarrassed
• work hard to maintain a first rate
• would try anyone's patience
• wouldn't blame you for
• your feelings are justified, considering

3 If applicable, mention any specific steps taken to correct the problem. You may want to explain how the offense happened, but do not blame someone else.

Sample Sentences for Step 3

• I realize this small gesture can in no way make up for your loss, but please accept these flowers as a token of my good will and the high esteem in which I hold you and your family.
• My behavior was inexcusable, but I assure you this will not happen again.
• I have told John that he will have to repaint your garage door himself, and we will deduct the costs for paint and supplies from his allowance. This will be a valuable learning experience for him. Let me assure you that John's vandalism did not come from any ill will toward you or your family.
• With this letter I have enclosed a check that should cover the cost of having your carpet cleaned.
• Enclosed is a revised report with corrected information. I have told Jane that I am to blame for the inaccurate statistics she received.
• I had problems with my answering machine, so I didn't get your message. The machine is working now, so please give me a call.
• I have taken up this matter with young John and he has assured me that he has learned his lesson.

Sample Phrases for Step 3

• although it will not be exactly the same
• am responsible for the damage so I will
• are mailing the booklets you ordered
• assist in the rebuilding of
• assure you this will not happen again
• compensate you for the loss of
• enclosed is a revised report with correct information
• expect to have it ready by the end of the week
• feel that I must
• happy to send you our records of
• have taken up this matter with
• have enclosed a check to cover the cost of
• have enclosed that amount
• information you requested will be
• let me pay the insurance deductible
• my insurance should cover the damages
• pay the bill you received from the
• please accept these flowers as a token of my
• please accept our donation toward the upkeep of
• promise a long letter when I return
• want to pay for the damages
• want to make amends
• will not feel good about it until I have
• will have a repairman fix
• will personally take care of
• will replace the book next week
• will send you a copy
• will talk with John to
• willing to do whatever is necessary to

4 If your apology concerns a problem you were unaware of, thank the reader for bringing it to your attention.

Sample Sentences for Step 4

• I was not aware that my daughter had been playing with lighted candles. Thank you for pointing this out to me so my husband and I could have a talk with her.
• I really did not know I was behaving inappropriately. Thank you for telling me.
• Thank you for caring enough to tell us that you caught John in the act. It gives us a chance to work with him on his problem. We appreciate the courteous manner in which you brought this to our attention.
• I didn't realize my dog had an accident on your carpet. Thank you for letting me know that his training is not yet completed.
• It is fortunate for us that you were so alert in catching this error. Thank you for pointing it out.

Sample Phrases for Step 4

• appreciate the friendly way in which you
• appreciate your letting me know
• didn't know that the agreement
• didn't know that you had requested
• didn't know that she hadn't returned
• didn't realize that
• fortunate for us that you were so alert
• found out that this happened before
• had no idea that it would
• it was important for us to
• need to know these things
• need to improve communications with
• really did not know that
• thank you for caring enough to tell us that you
• thank you for telling me
• thank you for letting me know
• thank you for pointing out
• thanks for calling this matter to my attention
• was under the impression that
• was not aware that
• was unfortunately not aware that

5 End with a positive statement and offer some form of compensation or restitution, if appropriate.

Sample Sentences for Step 5

• Apart from this incident, we enjoyed our stay. Thank you for helping make our family visit a pleasant one.
• Jane, I know that you would never ask, but please let me pay your carpet cleaning bill.
• Please accept the enclosed check as compensation for your damaged doll. We regret the unfortunate incident that marred an otherwise rewarding experience.
• Thank you for pointing out this mistake to me. I am always eager to improve my work.
• Let's reschedule for Wednesday so I can make it up to you. This time please allow me to provide the lunch.
• Because of your performance on the Doe contract, I am pleased to reward your efforts with a well-deserved raise. Thank you for your valuable contribution.

Sample Phrases for Step 5

• am responsible for the damage, so I will
• appreciate your lending me this interesting book
• assist in the rebuilding
• glad you found some of the data useful
• have decided to give
• hope to have the opportunity to
• it was kind of you to lend me the
• let me buy lunch
• look forward to working with
• please accept the enclosed check as compensation for
• please keep us in mind for future events
• please let me pay your
• confident the event will be an outstanding success
• thank you for being patient
• thank you for pointing out that
• thank you again for a wonderful experience at
• thank you for your valuable contribution
• thank you for helping make our visit a pleasant one
• thank you so much for your generosity
• thanks so much for thinking of us
• to make it up to you, let us reschedule for
• want to make everything right

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Apologizing Sincerely and Effectively

Apologizing can be intimidating, but it is the first step to rebuilding trust

Elizabeth Scott, PhD is an author, workshop leader, educator, and award-winning blogger on stress management, positive psychology, relationships, and emotional wellbeing.

Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk,  "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time.

• Recognize Reasons

Take Responsibility

Express regret, make amends, reaffirm boundaries.

• Manage Expectations
• Let Go of Results

Choose Your Method

Relationships can be wonderful buffers against stress, but relationship conflicts can also cause considerable emotional pain and stress. Knowing how to apologize—and when—can repair damage in a relationship, but if you don't know how to apologize sincerely, you can actually make things worse.

A sincere and effective apology is one that communicates genuine empathy, remorse, and regret as well as a promise to learn from your mistakes. In other words, you need to really believe you did something wrong and feel sorry for the hurt you caused. Here are some easy steps to help you learn how to apologize sincerely and effectively.

Recognize the Reasons to Apologize

When you've made a mistake or hurt another person, there are many good reasons to apologize. By apologizing, you are able to:

• Acknowledge that you were wrong
• Discuss what is allowed and not allowed in your relationship
• Express your regret and remorse
• Learn from your mistakes and find new ways of dealing with difficult situations
• Open up a line of communication with the other person

A sincere apology can also bring relief, particularly if you have guilt over your actions. An apology alone doesn't erase the hurt or make it OK, but it does establish that you know your actions or words were wrong and that you will strive harder in the future to prevent it from happening again.

Not apologizing when you are wrong can be damaging to your personal and professional relationships. It can also lead to rumination, anger, resentment, and hostility that may only grow over time.

Research suggests that some of the major reasons why people don't apologize are that they aren't really concerned about the other person, apologizing threatens their own self-image, or they believe that an apology won't do any good anyway.

Know When to Apologize

Knowing when to apologize is as important as knowing how to apologize. Generally speaking, if you suspect that something you did—on purpose or by accident—caused someone else hard feelings, it's a good idea to apologize and clear the air.

If what you did would have bothered you if it was done to you, an apology is in order. If you're not sure, an apology not only offers you the chance to "own" mistakes you made, but re-establish what you think was OK. If you feel the other person is being unreasonable, a discussion may be in order. You can decide where you stand on the apology after that.

While a sincere apology can go a long way toward mending a relationship, people are often unwilling or unable to take this step. Admitting you were wrong can be difficult and humbling.

Researchers have found that people who believe that personality is changeable are more likely to apologize for harmful actions. Because they feel that change is possible, they feel that accepting the blame for their mistakes is an opportunity for learning and growth.

Taking responsibility means acknowledging mistakes you made that hurt the other person, and it's one of the most important and neglected ingredients of most apologies, especially those in the media.

Saying something vague like, "I’m sorry if you were offended by something I said," implies that the hurt feelings were a random reaction on the part of the other person. Saying, "When I said [the hurtful thing], I wasn’t thinking. I realize I hurt your feelings, and I’m sorry," acknowledges that you know what it was you said that hurt the other person, and you take responsibility for it.

Don't make assumptions and don't try to shift the blame. Make it clear that you regret your actions and that you are sincerely sorry.

When learning how to apologize effectively, it’s important to understand the value of expressing regret. Taking responsibility is important, but it’s also helpful for the other person to know that you feel bad about hurting them, and wish you hadn’t. That’s it. They already feel bad, and they’d like to know that you feel bad about them feeling bad.

What to Say When You Want to Apologize

• "I wish I could take it back."
• "I wish I had been more thoughtful."
• "I wish I’d thought of your feelings as well."

These are all expressions of regret that add to the sincerity of your apology and let the other person know you care.

If there’s anything you can do to amend the situation, do it. It’s important to know how to apologize with sincerity, and part of that sincerity is a willingness to act.

What to Say When You Make Amends

• If you broke something: "How can I replace it?"
• If you said something hurtful: "I know my words hurt you. I should have never spoken that way to someone I love and respect. I'll do my best to think before I speak in the future."
• If you broke trust: "Is there anything I can do right now to help build your trust?"

Whatever you can do to make things better, do it. If you’re not sure what would help, ask the other person.

One of the most important parts of an apology and one of the best reasons to apologize is to reaffirm boundaries. Healthy boundaries are important in any relationship. 

When you come into conflict with someone, often a boundary is crossed. If a social rule is violated or trust is broken, an apology helps to affirm what kind of future behavior is preferred.

Discussing what type of rules you both will adhere to in the future will rebuild trust, boundaries , and positive feelings. It provides a natural segue out of the conflict and into a happier future in the relationship.

For example, you and your partner, friend, or family member can discuss things you won't tolerate, including:

• Gaslighting

In addition, you can work together to set expectations about how you should treat each other emotionally, physically, and sexually. If you're having trouble agreeing on these boundaries, you and your loved one may benefit from seeing a family therapist or couples counselor.

Own Up to Your Part, Not Theirs

Remember that when you apologize, you're taking responsibility for your part of the conflict. That doesn't mean that you're admitting that the entire conflict was your fault. People are often afraid to apologize first because they think whoever apologizes first is "more wrong" or the "loser" of the conflict.

Giving an apology even when only a small part of the conflict was your responsibility is OK and often healthy. It allows you to establish what you regret about your own actions but confirms your own boundaries as well.

It's important to be fair in your apology, both to the other person and to yourself. Don't accept all the blame if it isn't all your fault.

Apologize for the Right Reasons 

When you apologize for just what you did, you can more easily move forward and put the conflict behind you, regardless of the other person's actions. When we apologize, we're able to more easily maintain our integrity and forgive ourselves.

The other person may be moved to apologize for their actions as well. While getting an apology is often nice, it's important to remember that this doesn't always happen. Trying to evoke an apology from the other person is a manipulative tactic that sometimes backfires.

Apologize for your own peace of mind and the other person may be inspired to do the same. But be sure not to apologize just because you expect an apology in return.

Let Go of Results...to an Extent

Although apologizing can be a way to maintain integrity and move on from actions we're not proud of, most of us also want to repair the relationship and be forgiven. Sometimes this doesn't happen.

If the apology was sincere and included the necessary ingredients, your chances of forgiveness are greater, but sometimes the other person just isn't ready or able to forgive and move on. Or they may forgive you but remain guarded. Or they may not realize their own role in the conflict . You can't control their response, and if you've done everything you can, let it go for now.

Press Play for Advice On Making an Apology

Hosted by therapist Amy Morin, LCSW, this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast shares ways to apologize effectively and sincerely.

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Verbal apologies are appropriate under most circumstances, but making amends in writing can also have its benefits. Many people experience discomfort with a face-to-face apology, and while this discomfort alone isn't a good reason for a written apology, it can be a factor—especially if your discomfort affects your ability to express yourself.

Writing out your apology in a letter, email, or even text can give you the time to thoughtfully craft your apology, making sure to accept responsibility, express remorse, and reaffirm boundaries.

On the other hand, written apologies may be too formal for some mistakes and not personal enough for others. And if the written apology isn't followed by a response, you may be left with an unresolved conflict.

Keep your apology simple and direct. If you overdo it, you'll make it about yourself instead of the person you wronged. This can create resentment and erode trust.

How to Know If Your Apology Was Accepted

In general, you'll be able to tell if your apology was accepted if the person took the following steps:

• Listened to your apology or acknowledged reading your apology
• Thanked you or showed appreciation for your apology
• Responded to your apology, saying "It's OK," or "Please don't ever do that again," or even, "Thanks; but I still need more time to think."

It's important to remind yourself that even if someone accepts your apology, it doesn't necessarily mean that they're ready to forgive you. True forgiveness may take some time, so stay calm and be patient.

The Bottom Line

Genuine apologies aren't always easy, but that can be an important part of mending or maintaining important relationships. With empathy, an open heart, and a dose of courage, you can take the steps you need to make a sincere and honest apology.

Schumann K. The psychology of offering an apology: Understanding the barriers to apologizing and how to overcome them .  Curr Dir Psychol Sci . 2018;27(2):74-78. doi:10.1177/0963721417741709

Schumann K, Dweck CS. Who accepts responsibility for their transgressions? . Pers Soc Psychol Bull. 2014;40(12):1598-1610. doi:10.1177/0146167214552789

By Elizabeth Scott, PhD Elizabeth Scott, PhD is an author, workshop leader, educator, and award-winning blogger on stress management, positive psychology, relationships, and emotional wellbeing.

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Writing an Apology Letter: 15 Sample Letters & Examples for Various Reasons

Writing an Apology Letter: 15 Sample Letters & Examples for Various Reasons

When one has wronged someone, a heartfelt apology letter is an effective way to display genuine regret and attempt reconciliation. In this post, we will provide tips for writing various types of apologies to express sincere remorse and seek forgiveness from the person you have hurt through words or actions.

Key Takeaways

• The art of apologizing involves recognizing mistakes, offering sincere apologies, and providing emotional recovery. 
•  Crafting a heartfelt apology letter requires clear language to express regret, acceptance of responsibility, and empathy for the recipient’s experience. 
•  Apology letters should take into account cultural norms, demonstrate sincerity, and adhere to etiquette guidelines to be effective.

THE ART OF APOLOGIZING: WHY AND HOW

Apology letters are an essential tool for mending broken relationships and restoring bonds. Knowing how to write sincere apology letters is of utmost importance when it comes to customers, so below we outline the key steps you need: Begin by offering a heartfelt apology, acknowledge any mistakes made on your part, explain what led up to the issue without assigning blame or making excuses. 

 State clearly what will be done in order to resolve their situation swiftly, avoiding standard apologies, instead taking personal responsibility for all errors. Writing convincing apology letters can make a big difference in terms of putting things right again with friends or clients alike.

CRAFTING A HEARTFELT APOLOGY LETTER

When writing an apology letter, it is essential to make sure that you take full responsibility and express your regret with concise honesty. Show empathy towards the recipient’s experience, which can help them feel heard and understood. Apologize without any conditions or defending yourself – simply accept what happened and explain how your actions have had a negative impact on your life. 

 Include suggestions of improvements for the future so they know proactive measures are being taken to prevent similar issues from arising again. To ensure authenticity when penning apology letters, here are some tips: be mindful of people’s feelings, say sorry without qualification, and show commitment to making amends by offering ideas. Read aloud before sending (adjusting if necessary), which can help give more insight into whether its words come across as sincere or not.

PERSONAL APOLOGY LETTERS: 5 EXAMPLES

Personal apologies can be a powerful tool in mending relationships and expressing sincere regret . Here are five examples of personal apology letters for various situations, demonstrating how to communicate remorse and a commitment to change effectively. 

  Dear [Friend's Name], 

 I am truly sorry for my actions last night. I let my emotions get the best of me, and I said things I didn't mean. I hope you can forgive me. 

 Dear [Friend's Name], 

 I apologize for not being there for you when you needed me. I realize now how much you rely on my support, and I promise to be there for you in the future. 

 My dearest friend. I am deeply sorry for forgetting your birthday party. I know how important it was to you and I failed to make you feel special on your day. I promise to make it up to you. 

 I apologize for my insensitive comment. I didn't realize how it could hurt you, and I regret my thoughtlessness. I promise to be more mindful of my words in the future. 

 I am sorry for breaking your trust. I understand if you are upset with me, and I am willing to do whatever it takes to rebuild our friendship. I will do better.

PROFESSIONAL APOLOGY LETTERS: 5 EXAMPLES

Professional apologies are great for expressing sincere regret. Here are five examples of professional apology letters for various situations, demonstrating how to communicate remorse and a commitment to change effectively. 

 Dear [Recipient's Name], 

 I apologize for any inconvenience caused by the delay in our shipment. We understand the impact this might have had on your operations and are working diligently to rectify the situation. 

 I'd like to apologize for the error in our recent invoice personally. We value your business and understand the confusion this may have caused. We are correcting the error immediately. 

 I regret to inform you that there was an oversight in our product quality control. We take full responsibility and are taking steps to ensure this will not happen again. 

 Please accept our sincere apologies for the misunderstanding during our last communication. We value your perspective and are committed to improving our contact in the future. 

 I am sorry for the delay in responding to your email. We understand the urgency of your request and are working to provide you with a response as soon as possible.

APOLOGY LETTERS TO GROUPS: 5 EXAMPLES

When offering an apology to a group or several people, it is essential to consider the collective emotions and worries of everyone involved and each recipient’s individual feelings. Thus, you should deeply regret your actions and include this in your letter when apologizing: conveying remorse, recognizing any mistakes made, and committing yourself to changing behavior patterns going forward. 

 Dear [Group's Name], 

 I deeply regret the misunderstanding during our meeting. My comments were not intended to offend, and I sincerely apologize if they did. I value our relationship and will strive for better communication in the future. 

 To All Our Valued Customers, 

 We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused by the recent service disruption. We understand the impact of this on your operations and are taking immediate steps to rectify the situation.  

 Dear Team Members, 

 To my multiple friends. I regret my actions at the last team meeting. I understand that my behavior was unprofessional, and I sincerely apologize. I am committed to creating a positive and respectful work environment for all. These are my own words, and I honor them. 

 To Our Esteemed Community Members, 

 We are genuinely sorry for the oversight in our recent community event. We understand that our actions may have caused disappointment, and we are taking steps to ensure this will not happen again. 

 I apologize sincerely for the comments I made in our last group discussion. They were insensitive and inappropriate, and I deeply regret any hurt they may have caused. I am committed to being more mindful of my words in the future.

THE ROLE OF EMPATHY IN APOLOGY LETTERS

In apology letters, expressing empathy is essential for conveying sincere regret to the recipient. It allows the writer of such a letter to show that they are aware and acknowledge their counterpart’s emotions. 

 Examples of statements that demonstrate this include “I completely comprehend your feelings,” “The difficulty you must be experiencing saddens me,” or simply saying, “My apologies for causing hurt.” Expressing sympathy through an apology note can help reestablish trust between both parties and build on existing relationships, hence why it should not be overlooked in these types of communications.

AUTOMATING YOUR APOLOGY LETTERS WITH SIMPLY NOTED

Simply Noted is a platform that facilitates the production of personalized and professional apology letters with little effort. All you have to do is provide pertinent data; then, an expressive and apologetic letter will be created in moments – helping businesses save time while still giving them a heartfelt way to apologize. 

 This tool enables organizations to ensure their expressions of regret are consistently personal and sympathetic – creating stronger connections between themselves, customers, or colleagues without sacrificing sincerity for convenience. Automation does not need to equate coldness; through Simply Noted, one can demonstrate genuine remorse and prove dedication towards rectifying matters correctly.

ADDRESSING CULTURAL DIFFERENCES IN APOLOGY LETTERS

When it comes to accepting responsibility and being mindful of cultural aspects in writing apology letters, displaying sensitivity towards the specific values and beliefs that are meaningful for the addressee is essential. Investigating appropriate customs or expressions that demonstrate regret according to their culture will help make your amends more sincere. 

 For instance, when writing an expression of contrition aimed at a foreign business partner, researching methods typically utilized by them would be advantageous to include pertinent phrases or symbols that unequivocally portray genuine understanding on your part. Customizing this letter with respect to the recipient’s traditional background offers additional proof of empathy from you as well as a commitment to rectifying any wrongdoings committed previously.

APOLOGY ETIQUETTE: DO'S AND DON'TS

It is essential to be aware of the proper ways and wrong methods when apologizing so that your regret can show and make sure people accept it. These are some essential points for a successful apology: recognizing an error, taking full responsibility, being truthful with words showing true repentance about what has happened, and delivering the expression in person if possible, which will increase its value by having actual communication rather than written ones. 

 Some mistakes must be avoided while apologizing, such as devaluing or ignoring any issue regarding this matter, giving excuses instead of holding oneself accountable, not meaningfully expressing hurt caused to other parties involved, or committing something impossible without fulfilling it afterward. 

 By considering these courtesies, one can carry out a useful appropriate atonement from which relationships could heal again once trust is mended between two individuals thanks to practical terms used during the apologetic process entirely genuine.

HOW TO FOLLOW UP AFTER SENDING AN APOLOGY LETTER

When sending an apology letter, it’s essential to follow up to keep communication flowing and ensure the recipient is content with your apology. Give a few days before pursuing contact. This allows them time for personal reflection on the matter at hand. 

 Check in once or twice weekly during these first weeks after, then decrease frequency but stay conscious of their response to ensure satisfactory closure was achieved from your regretful message. If they don’t reply or accept remorsefully, maintain patient poise while respecting the feelings expressed, let them take whatever amount of time needed, and be accepted even if there has been no forgiveness.

HANDLING REJECTION OR NO RESPONSE TO AN APOLOGY LETTER

The feeling can be daunting when you send out an apology letter and get no response or it is rejected. It’s essential to understand that the receiver may need time to think about your words of remorse before deciding if they are ready for forgiveness. So, remain respectful of their reactions and patience while waiting for a response. 

 Reflecting upon what has occurred and going over the to write an apology letter that provides greater insight into how best to handle similar situations in future instances. Take this opportunity to gain personal growth from where mistakes were made so proper apologizing skills can continue developing throughout life’s journey.

Writing a sincere and meaningful apology letter is an excellent approach to repairing damaged relationships, showing remorse for mistakes, and taking accountability for your behavior. A successful best apology letter requires one to be genuine in their regret and have empathy while constructing the words of amends within the letter. Ensuring these components are expressed correctly can help restore trust between parties, whether with friends or colleagues alike.

Frequently asked questions

How do you write a good apology letter.

When writing a good apology letter, it is vital to recognize one’s mistake and express genuine regret for the situation through sincerity. An effective way of showing this remorse is by asking for forgiveness and clearly articulating your plan to fix the problem. Keep these points brief while ensuring that all relevant information about how you will solve things remains in the text.

What is a good apology example?

I profoundly apologize for the words I uttered that caused you so much emotional distress. It is with genuine regret that I recognize now how deeply my careless actions impacted your feelings and humbly ask your pardon for such inconsiderate behavior, which led to this situation.

What is a sincere apology letter?

Apology letters should be composed with genuine regret and humility. They need to reflect on the individual situation while apologizing without any exemptions or excuses given. Responsibility has to be owned up, and repentance for the results of such a mistake is also expressed in it. 

 An effective apology letter also needs to state why this error was committed so that reparation can be made afterward - these words have got to come from deep within. They must genuinely mean what is being said to them, not just serve as empty phrases void of actual remorsefulness. 

 The right keywords Are sincere apologies backed by promises of restoring things where appropriate: responsibility accepted plus regrets over specific outcomes, all stated clearly throughout each correspondence written.

How should I follow up after sending an apology letter?

Allow a few days to pass before getting back in touch, and then stay connected throughout the process. Check regularly to ensure that the written apology is accepted well by the person receiving it. Maintain communication all along to avoid missing any steps of this critical apology journey.

How can I address cultural differences in an apology letter?

To demonstrate sincere understanding, respect the culture of the person receiving your apology by including phrases and gestures that pertain to them. Show gratitude for any customs related to making amends professionally and connecting with your reader. Offer an appropriate expression of regret while expressing admiration for their background or traditions when delivering such an apology.

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• Personal Letters /

Apology Letters

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An  apology letter  is a formal and sincere expression of regret about someone’s mistake. An apology letter can be an email or physical document. People write one for a variety of scenarios. A colleague may apologize for an oversight that caused frustration or delay for another. A friend may apologize for hurting their friend’s feelings. A company may apologize on behalf of an ousted employee. Regardless of the situation, all apology letters share similar qualities: the writer takes responsibility, acknowledges the negative impact of their behavior, and seeks amends.

Apology Letter Templates

Types of Apology Letters

In any social interaction, there is potential for mistakes and missteps. Someone who has acted irresponsibly or inappropriately may cause another person to feel frustrated, have hurt feelings, or experience setbacks. Here are common types of apology letters.

• Private:  This apology letter is usually between two people, such as romantic partners, family members, or friends. An apology letter may be appropriate if someone has upset another or had a miscommunication that led to hurt feelings.
• Professional:  An employee or employer may write an apology letter to express regret about actions that directly impacted business. In this situation, a good apology letter acknowledges the error, its consequences, and plans to avoid the mistake in the future.
• Third-Party:  Sometimes, businesses or organizations need to apologize on behalf of someone else. The apology letter can help preserve the business relationship and show goodwill to an upset customer.
• Large Scale:  An apology letter to a broader audience may be appropriate if someone has acted erroneously or inappropriately in public view. Well-known figures or celebrities issue these “mass” or “open” letters to acknowledge their mistake and hold themselves accountable.

Apology Letter Examples

How to Write an Apology Letter

Before writing the apology letter, determine the essentials: the act that warrants the apology, the consequences, and the plan to avoid the mistake in the future. This outline is also an excellent organizational structure to follow and will help the writing process.

• Step One – Identify the Mistake

Step Two – Take Responsibility

Step three – make suggestions, step four – ask for forgiveness, step one – identify the mistake .

Begin the letter by stating the specific mistake, oversight, or misunderstanding. A good apology letter gets straight to the point and states clearly the person’s wrongdoing.  “Dear Sam, I want to apologize for forgetting to pick you up from the airport on Friday night.” 

After admitting the mistake, recognize its impact.  “I understand this left you stranded for hours, leading you to use an expensive taxi service and get little sleep that night.”  It is also appropriate to express regret or remorse.  “I deeply regret that my actions caused a major disruption to your plans.”

Good apology letters are concise, clear, and concrete. While the writer may acknowledge the circumstances surrounding the mistake, they ultimately take responsibility, are genuine in their remorse, and seek to make amends.

Taking responsibility means identifying your mistake without making excuses or over-explaining why you made the choices you did. For example, if you broke your friend’s vase, you might say something like, “I would like to sincerely apologize for breaking your vase as I know that it meant a great deal to you.” You would not say anything along the lines of, “I apologize for breaking your vase, even though I was in a rush and did not see it.” The latter of the two apologies does not sound genuine, or like you are taking personal blame.

Lastly, make sure the letter is also timely as it shows that you are proactive and the apology means something to you. Furthermore, an apology a month or more after an incident may fall flat and be ineffective.

To end on a positive note, suggest ways to act differently in the future.  “I hope to keep better track of my calendar and follow through on my commitments.”

If appropriate, making suggestions on how you might change or avoid the mistake in the future tells the person that you have thought about it deeply. In addition, it shows that you are mature and want to change or improve to be a better family member, friend, spouse, employee, boss, or overall person. It is imperative to use the proper wording during this step not to sound arrogant, sarcastic, or condescending. Having another person proofread your letter might give you a second opinion on your tone.

Showing some vulnerability by asking for forgiveness can also be a good move.  “I sincerely ask for your forgiveness, but I understand that this may need some time.” 

A crucial part of apologizing is admitting that you were in the wrong. By asking for forgiveness, you show the person that you care about your mistake and want to take ownership. You also leave the conversation open-ended, allowing the recipient to consider what they feel comfortable with moving forward. It also shows that you are willing to work with them to create a solution or rebuild the relationship.

Apology Letter Samples

Reasons For Creating an Apology Letter

Although all apology letters ultimately say sorry, each type is different because of its respective audience. There may be several reasons someone writes an apology letter, such as:

• To mend hurt feelings. A fight, miscommunication, acting out of character, or betrayal by a significant other or friend warrants an apology letter. An apology letter can help ease tension and re-establish the relationship’s bond. A spouse might write an apology letter if they broke their partner’s trust by telling a secret. A friend might write one for damaging an expensive camera they borrowed.
• To fix errors. An apology letter might be helpful in a professional setting if someone’s actions created errors, deterred progress, or created setbacks in business proceedings. Employees may write an apology letter if they missed a deadline, showed up late to an important presentation, or miscalculated the budget.
• To preserve reputation. If the public or broader audience witnesses an error or mistake, an apology letter may help maintain the person’s or company’s reputation. A business might write an apology letter to a dissatisfied customer if an employee acted unprofessionally. A member of an executive board might write an apology letter to their organization if they posted offensive comments on social media. These acts show remorse and goodwill to avoid similar behavior in the future.

Best Apology Letters

Key Takeaways

Sometimes, a written apology instead of a verbal “I’m sorry” is necessary to correct wrongdoing. Writing the apology in a letter allows the person apologizing to examine their actions thoroughly and take responsibility for them. Writing and sending an apology letter takes courage, vulnerability, and accountability. More often than not, it is the pathway to correcting mistakes and continuing the personal or professional relationship. Recipients of apology letters are likely to forgive the error and move forward if the writer is sincere in owning the mistake and taking action to avoid repeating them.

Apology Letter to Customer

22. WORD | PDF

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Hamas weakened and divided but far from defeated six months into Gaza war

Few of Hamas’s senior leaders have been harmed but its ability to govern is reduced and thousands of fighters are dead

Six months after the surprise attacks it launched into Israel , triggering the Gaza conflict, Hamas is weakened and divided but far from defeated, experts, officials and sources close to the militant Islamist organisation say.

Hamas remains in de facto control of swaths of Gaza , including the parts where much of the territory’s population is now concentrated, and has re-established a presence elsewhere. In recent days, Hamas “operatives” armed with batons have been sighted keeping order on the streets of Khan Younis, the southern city from which Israeli forces withdrew just last week. On Wednesday, rockets targeting a kibbutz in Israel were launched by militants from Jabaliya in northern Gaza.

Few members of the organisation’s top echelons have been harmed so far and much of its extensive tunnel network remains intact. However, the organisation’s ability to effectively govern is much reduced, its military stores are depleted, and thousands of fighters are dead.

The months-long war has also led to new tensions between Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader in Gaza, and leaders based overseas, mainly in Qatar and Turkey. In recent weeks, bitter arguments have broken out over what would be acceptable terms for a ceasefire and over the future strategy of Hamas, well-informed sources in direct contact with senior Hamas figures said.

One such source said the split was between exiles who favour a nationalist strategy, with Hamas part of an anti-western coalition alongside powers such as Russia or Iran, and a Gaza leadership that has “doubled down” on the organisation’s original Islamist project while remaining committed to the local fight against Israel. Another pointed to deep personal animosity between Sinwar and Khaled Mashal, who is the best known of Hamas’s political leaders.

An emerging problem for Hamas is dissent within Gaza, a consequence of the group’s weakened authority on the population and the massive cost of the 7 October attack.

Though one poll suggested support for the organisation in the territory, there is evidence for deepening anger among many there. In late March, Hamas issued an unprecedented apology for the suffering caused by the war in Gaza, where famine now looms, and acknowledged the population’s “exhaustion”.

Published on its Telegram channel, the long statement also listed steps taken by the organisation to help ordinary people, such as enforcing lower prices for basic goods amid soaring inflation, and consulting makeshift community organisations that were trying to keep order in the increasingly anarchic territory.

The communique also repeated Hamas’s justification for the war, which it said would lead to the victory and freedom of Palestinians.

One major loss for Hamas – though yet to be fully confirmed – was Marwan Issa, in effect the third in command in Gaza, who is thought by Israeli and US intelligence to have been killed by an Israeli airstrike last month.

Issa was targeted when he moved between underground bunkers in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, Israeli intelligence officials told the Guardian, after it was learned that the 59-year-old would not be with any of the 100 Israeli hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza,

The strike on Issa was followed by a three-day communications blackout imposed by Hamas commanders concerned that a spy within their ranks had revealed crucial details to Israeli security services that had allowed the attack. A similar precaution was taken after the suspected Israeli assassination of Saleh al-Arouri , the deputy political leader, in Beirut in January, sources close to Hamas said.

Israel has succeeded in infiltrating many Palestinian armed factions – including Hamas, Islamic Jihad, Fatah and others – in the past. Israeli experts say “battlefield detainees”, captured in Gaza and interrogated immediately by officers from specialist units, have provided crucial information.

“The most important source that we have now is the thousands in captivity … From interrogation we have succeeded in understanding what might be the potential scenarios for where Issa might be hiding. We closed the circles,” said Kobi Michael, a senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies in Tel Aviv, last month.

The Israeli military’s bombing campaign in Gaza has also used a controversial AI-powered database , the Guardian reported last week.

So far 33,000 people have died in Gaza in the Israeli military offensive, mostly women and children, according to local health authorities. The Hamas attacks in Israel which triggered the war killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and 250 were seized as hostages.

Israeli officials say a third of Hamas’s 30,000 to 40,000 fighters have been killed. Hamas denies this and cites much lower figures. Independent confirmation of either claim is not possible but many analysts say the emphasis on a “kill count” revealed a failure among Israeli strategists to understand the nature of their enemy.

Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s prime minister, has said repeatedly that an Israeli victory will mean “crushing Hamas”. But, despite massive military power, dismantling the administrative capabilities of the organisation, which has run Gaza since seizing power there in 2007, has proved difficult.

On Monday an Israeli strike killed the mayor of al-Mawasi refugee camp, designated as a humanitarian zone early in the conflict. Israel said the official was a terrorist involved in rocket launches. Hamas denounced the attack as a war crime.

Mkhaimar Abusada, a professor of political science at al-Azhar University in Gaza, now in Cairo, estimated that between a fifth and a quarter of the population of Gaza could be described as committed to Hamas, and that their support would not waver whatever disaffection elsewhere.

“At a very minimum, it will be weakened militarily, but this is not going to put an end to Hamas. Hamas will continue at a popular level because of what 2 million or more people have gone through. Even if there are many, many Palestinians who are not happy with Hamas, there are others who will continue to provide support in different places at different times,” he said.

Israel’s strategic decision not to keep troops in areas initially cleared of Hamas fighters has allowed some small-scale military operations to continue. Such efforts are publicised by an impactful and apparently fully functional Hamas media operation that has rallied international support for the organisation throughout the conflict.

At least one of Israel’s war aims may have been achieved, however. “I don’t think there will be a crisis of leadership but Hamas will no longer be able to carry on with armed resistance in the same way after this,” Abusada said.

• Israel-Gaza war
• Middle East and north Africa
• Palestinian territories

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‘All That’ Cast Members Say Dan Schneider Reached Out for a ‘Quote of Support’ Ahead of Doc, Criticize His ‘Performance’ of an Apology Video

By Emily Longeretta

Emily Longeretta

• ‘Chicago Med’ Showrunners Diane Frolov and Andy Schneider to Step Down After Nine Seasons: ‘It’s Time for Us to Move On’ 4 days ago
• ‘All That’ Cast Members Say Dan Schneider Reached Out for a ‘Quote of Support’ Ahead of Doc, Criticize His ‘Performance’ of an Apology Video 6 days ago
• Drake Bell Reveals Whether He’s Heard From Actors Who Wrote Letters Supporting Brian Peck, Defends Mom From Online Backlash 6 days ago

“ Quiet on Set: Breaking the Silence ” featured a new interview with “ All That ” cast members Giovannie Samuels and Bryan Hearne. The pair, who also participated in the first four episodes of the ID docuseries , returned to sit down with host Soledad O’Brien and talk about the series and Dan Schneider ‘s post-documentary interview.

“The thing about his interview as a whole , I thought it was funny. If I could be candid, Dan was an actor before all of this,” said Hearne, who appeared on Seasons 7 and 8 of “All That.” “I think that he brushed off some chops and gave us a nice performance. Where was all of this apologizing when Jennette McCurdy’s book came out?”

Popular on Variety

Schneider first released multiple statements, denying that he was “sexualizing” any of the young stars . The following day, he released a 20-minute interview on his YouTube channel, during which he apologized for his actions and said that “every one of those jokes was written for a kid audience, because kids thought they were funny.” However, he said that if certain jokes are now looked at by adults as inappropriate, he supports the decision to cut them in reruns.

Samuels, who starred on Seasons 7-9 of “All That,” stated during “Breaking the Silence” that even as a kid, many of those jokes were not funny — but she went along laughing because the adults in the room were, and she wanted to keep her job.

Samuels and Hearne were asked if they felt they were tokenized as the only two Black people on set of the show — in front of and behind the camera. “Yes,” Samuels responded. “It was very evident from the first day, it was just the two of us.”

She also shared that she had recently spoken to Schneider.

Shane Lyons, who appeared in 23 episodes of “All That” in Seasons 7-9, also was part of the fifth episode as he decided to come forward after hearing everything that had happened behind the scenes.

“I think the only way we can change is to really evaluate the past and I have some perspective to share on that and felt like it was important,” he said about choosing to appear. Lyons had worked alongside Brian Peck — who later went to prison for sexually assaulting Drake Bell — on “All That,” and said that he was “enamored” by him since he was one of the adult cast members.

After calling Bell’s story “gut-wrenching,” Lyons added, “I feel very blessed and lucky that anything like that happened to me. There were certainly some passes.”

He then recounted a group of people talking about blue balls on set when he was around.

“Some conversation was happening in the green room and we get called to set and Brian follows behind me. I’m kind of low in the green room set and he sits next to me, and he goes — previously in the conversation they were talking about blue balls, and I just didn’t know what they were — and he goes, ‘Well, we know what blue balls are, right Shane?'” Lyons recalled. “I said, ‘Yeah, like racquetballs.’ I’m a kid, 13, 14. As I think back now, as an adult, as a 36-year-old, would I ever have a conversation with a 13-year-old boy like he had with me? No. It makes absolutely zero sense… a 13-year-old girl, a 13-year-old anybody. They’re kids. Why are you talking like that?”

Lyons also spoke about how kids should be protected on set , starting with a law update, so that a convicted child molester cannot be on any set.

“Currently, there’s a loop hole in the law that as long as there’s a guardian or a parent omnipresent on the set, they don’t have to hire people who go through a background check,” he said, noting that Schneider pointing to the bosses above him that signed off on things “sounds like the farmer that blames the tractor for the poor harvest.”

A spokesperson for Nickelodeon, the network that parted ways with Schneider in 2018, released the following statement regarding the claims in the doc: “Though we cannot corroborate or negate allegations of behaviors from productions decades ago, Nickelodeon as a matter of policy investigates all formal complaints as part of our commitment to fostering a safe and professional workplace environment free of harassment or other kinds of inappropriate conduct. Our highest priorities are the well-being and best interests not just of our employees, casts and crew, but of all children, and we have adopted numerous safeguards over the years to help ensure we are living up to our own high standards and the expectations of our audience.”

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