Sorry for another URGENT help! T_T Thanks

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Helped Wanted

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What is the difference in meaning, between "sorry for" and "sorry about"?

When do we use " I am sorry about..." and " I am sorry for..."?

Thanks for the explaination, everyone! From Help Wanted T_T
 
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jwschang

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Helped Wanted said:
What is the difference in meaning, between "sorry for" and "sorry about"?

When do we use " I am sorry about..." and " I am sorry for..."?

Thanks for the explaination, everyone! From Help Wanted T_T
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1. Generally, no difference in meaning.
I am sorry about what happened = I am sorry for what happened.
2. Specifically (depending on the context of what is being talked about), the first sentence could mean that the speaker was not the one responsible for what happened. The second sentence could mean the speaker was responsible and is offering his/her sympathy or apology.
 
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RonBee

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Helped Wanted said:
What is the difference in meaning, between "sorry for" and "sorry about"?

When do we use " I am sorry about..." and " I am sorry for..."?
Click to expand...

We usually use about. Example:

  • I'm sorry about that. I did not wish to offend you.

There can be quite a bit of difference in usage between the two. Example:

  • I'll make him sorry for that.

:)
 
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RonBee

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More on this subject

More on this subject.

According to Google, sorry for is used more often than sorry about

  • sorry about = 463,000
    sorry for = 840,000

Sometimes one can be substituted for the other with no change in meaning.

  • Sorry about the mess.
    Depp sorry for 'anti-US' quotes.
    Potter pirate sorry for mistakes.

Sometimes only one can be used and not the other. In the following sentences you cannot substitute sorry about for sorry for.


For more, go here:
http://forums.delphiforums.com/dictionary/messages?msg=15318.1

You should be able to find an interesting discussion there. I am sure you won't be sorry for clicking on that link.

:)
 
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