• Makeshift@sh.itjust.works
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    3 days ago

    From what I’ve learned, there is a difference when used as an actual apology.

    “I’m sorry” (on its own, without being followed by “you feel that way”) is genuine and tells that the speaker is honestly so.

    “I apologize” is formal and kind of fake. They’re likely more sorry they were called out rather than sorry for what they were called out for.

    • SuiXi3D@fedia.io
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      3 days ago

      I’ve always thought of it as being the opposite. I only ever use ‘I apologize’ or ‘my apologies’ when I’m sorry about something I did, when it’s my fault. I use them because it feels more sincere to me, and more effectively communicates my intention.

      • Cheesus@lemmy.ca
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        3 days ago

        Eh, it might be a regional thing, but I agree with OP. ‘I apologize’ feels kinda snarky. But then again, as a Canadian, saying sorry is kinda one of our national pastimes.

    • Yeah, that’s my take. “I’m sorry” is about how you feel. It’s like the OP post: you’re expressing sympathy, or remorse - an emotion. If it’s because of something you did, it does double duty as an apology. “I apologize” gives no indication that you’re sorry about what you did, or concede that it was wrong. It’s merely a recognition that harm was done, and giving a concession to the other person to achieve harmony.