What does sorry mean?
Sorry is a common English word used to express apology, regret, and sympathy. As an adjective, it describes an apology or a feeling of regret, as in 'She was sorry about the mistake' or 'a sorry decision.' As an interjection, it can stand alone to acknowledge an error or offer an apology, although 'I'm sorry' is more explicit. The word is also used to express compassion when someone has experienced bad news or misfortune: 'I'm sorry to hear that.' Its meanings overlap closely, with context determining whether the speaker is primarily apologizing, expressing regret, or offering sympathy. Although 'sorry' is sometimes used informally to mean pitiable, as in 'that poor sorry dog,' its everyday dominant use is connected with acknowledging mistakes and difficult situations.
Feeling or expressing regret, apology, or sympathy; causing or involving sorrow or pity.
"He was sorry to hear about her illness."
The word is commonly used before a noun in phrases such as 'a sorry mistake,' where it can suggest that the thing described is regrettable or pitiable.
Used to apologize, acknowledge a mistake, or express sympathy.
"Sorry, I did not mean to startle you."
Used informally on its own in casual conversation; 'I'm sorry' is more explicit and is preferred in more formal contexts.
One everyday word can carry apology, sympathy, and regret, making it one of English's most useful emotional shortcuts.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sorry come from?
The modern word developed from Middle English forms meaning 'sorrowful' or 'full of regret,' ultimately associated with Old English 'sōr,' meaning 'sore, pain, or sorrow.' The adjective sense 'expressing sorrow or regret' developed alongside the older sense of being sorrowful or distressed. It is related to modern English 'sore' and 'sorrow,' which preserve elements of the same Germanic root.
Related word forms
How sorry is actually used
This is an everyday word used in both formal and informal settings. As an adjective, it commonly occurs before a noun, as in 'a sorry mistake,' and as a predicate adjective after 'be.' As an interjection, it is often used by itself to apologize; 'I'm sorry' is generally more emphatic and explicit.
Easily confused with sorry
Sorry expresses regret or sympathy, whereas sore describes a painful injury or a source of distress.