Complaining and Apologizing

Learn how to complain and apologize politely

Video Lesson

Tip: Complaining and making apologies are important communication skills. They help us express dissatisfaction and resolve conflicts politely. Using appropriate expressions for complaining and apologizing helps maintain positive relationships!

Complaining

When you need to complain, you can use the following expressions:

  • I'm sorry to say this but...
  • I'm afraid I've got a complaint about...
  • Excuse me, but there is a problem about...
  • I want to complain about...
  • I'm angry about...
  • I'm not satisfied with...

Apologizing

When you need to apologize, you can use the following expressions:

  • I apologize for...
  • I am so sorry for...
  • Please, forgive me for...
  • I'm terribly sorry for...
  • Pardon me for...
  • Please, accept my apologies for...

Accepting Apologies

When someone apologizes, you can respond with:

  • That's all right.
  • Never mind.
  • It doesn't matter.
  • That's OK.
  • Don't worry about it.
  • No harm done.

Practice: What do these statements express?

Instruction: Write "C" for complaining, and "A" for apologizing.

1. I'm sorry for being late for the meeting.

2. I'm sorry to say this but you usually make noise at night.

3. Excuse me, but there is a problem about parking your car in front of my doorway.

4. Please, forgive me for the misunderstanding that happened between us last time.

5. I'm not satisfied with the school grades you have had lately.