Synonyms of apologize

apologize

verb

as in to confess

to express regret for doing or saying something wrong

I want to apologize to you for my rude behavior yesterday.

We apologize for the mistake and promise that it won't happen again.

Related Words

• confess
• excuse
• explain
• justify
• atone
• explain away
• rationalize
• mitigate
• extenuate
• minimize
• gloss (over)
• palliate
• whitewash
• account (for)
• deodorize
• sugarcoat
• varnish
• alleviate
• soften
• exonerate
• play down
• temper
• vindicate
• gloze (over)
• lighten
• moderate
• absolve
• exculpate
• soft-pedal
• acquit
• ease
• lessen
• clear

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of apologize

The hearing included a viral moment where Zuckerberg turned to face the audience, which was filled with families holding photos of children harmed by online abuse, and apologized directly to the families. — Cuyler Dunn, Kansas City Star, 26 Aug. 2026

Two major golf brands have apologized following backlash over an ad that showed a man forcefully shoving a woman to the ground. — ABC News, 25 Aug. 2026

After facing criticism for selling a children’s circus clown Halloween costume that critics claimed evoked blackface and minstrel shows, Target has publicly apologized. — Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 24 Aug. 2026

Eventually the vice president, who has become president, apologizes to the nation for exploiting nature. — Peter Prengaman, Fortune, 24 Aug. 2026