Apologising 102

In English we apologise not only when we've done something wrong but also when we want to interrupt someone, show our feelings when something bad has happened to someone else or ask someone to repeat something.

Saying sorry – for doing something wrong:

Informal
...I'm sorry I'm late.
....I'm so sorry I forgot your birthday

Formal
...I beg your pardon madam, I didn't see you were waiting to be served.[a polite way of saying "I am sorry" or "Could you repeat what you just said]
....I'm awfully sorry but those tickets are sold out now.
....I must apologise for my children's rude behaviour.
...I must apologize to Isobel for my lateness.
...Trains may be subject to delay on the northern line - we apologize for any inconvenience caused.
...She apologized profusely for having to leave at 3.30 p.m.
...I have an apology to make to you - I'm afraid I opened your letter by mistake.
...He's demanding a full apology from the newspaper for making untrue allegations about his personal life.
..."Was he at all sorry for what he'd done?" "Oh he was full of apologies (= extremely sorry)."
...She complained to the company about its awful service and they sent her a written apology.
....I owe you an apology - I'm afraid I forgot to send Amanda that report.a letter of apology.

Saying sorry – giving a reason:
Usually as well as apologising, we give a reason for our behaviour:

...I'm sorry I'm late but my alarm clock didn't go off this morning.
...I'm so sorry there's nothing here you can eat, I didn't realise you were a vegetarian.

Saying sorry – for interrupting someone:

...Excuse me, can you tell me where the Post Office is please?
...I'm sorry but can I get through?

Saying sorry – when something bad happens to someone else:

I'm sorry to hear you've not been feeling well.
I'm so sorry to hear your dad died.
I heard you failed your driving test. I'm really sorry but I'm sure you'll pass next time.
[+ to infinitive] We were both sorry to hear you've been ill again.