Looking to express apologies in a more informal and casual manner? Explore this extensive list of 97 slang words that can be used to convey remorse and seek forgiveness. From light-hearted expressions to more sincere terms, this compilation offers a wide range of options for apologizing in everyday conversations. Enhance your vocabulary with this diverse collection of slang words, allowing you to convey your regrets and make amends in a relatable and informal way.
1. Sorry
Definition: Slang term used to express regret, apologize, or acknowledge wrongdoing.
Example: “Sorry for being late to the meeting.”
2. Apologies
Definition: Slang term meaning expressing regret or asking for forgiveness.
Example: “Apologies for the confusion, I misspoke.”
3. My bad
Definition: Slang term used to admit one’s own mistake or take responsibility for an error.
Example: “I forgot to send the report, my bad.”
4. Pardon
Definition: Slang term used to request forgiveness or ask for someone’s understanding.
Example: “Pardon my interruption, but I have a question.”
5. Oops
Definition: Slang term used to acknowledge a mistake, mishap, or accident.
Example: “Oops, I spilled coffee on my shirt.”
6. Mea culpa
Definition: Slang term of Latin origin meaning “my fault,” used to express regret or admit responsibility for an error.
Example: “I apologize for the confusion, mea culpa.”
7. Regrets
Definition: Slang term indicating a feeling of sorrow, remorse, or disappointment.
Example: “I have no regrets about pursuing my dreams.”
8. Faux pas
Definition: Slang term referring to a social or cultural mistake, breach of etiquette, or embarrassing blunder.
Example: “Wearing jeans to a formal event is considered a faux pas.”
9. Slip-up
Definition: Slang term meaning a minor mistake, error, or oversight.
Example: “I made a slip-up and sent the email to the wrong recipient.”
10. Misstep
Definition: Slang term referring to an error, mistake, or stumble in judgment or action.
Example: “The politician’s misstep during the speech cost him public support.”
11. Boo-boo
Definition: Slang term used to describe a small mistake or blunder, often in a lighthearted or playful manner.
Example: “I made a boo-boo by forgetting to pick up the milk.”
12. Blunder
Definition: Slang term referring to a serious or embarrassing mistake, often resulting from carelessness or lack of judgment.
Example: “The blunder in the financial report led to significant losses for the company.”
13. Gaffe
Definition: Slang term indicating a social or verbal mistake, often resulting in embarrassment or offense.
Example: “The politician made a gaffe by mispronouncing a prominent figure’s name.”
14. Sorriness
Definition: Slang term referring to a state of feeling sorry, remorseful, or regretful.
Example: “She expressed her sorriness for causing any inconvenience.”
15. Excuse
Definition: Slang term meaning to provide a justification or explanation for a mistake or wrongdoing.
Example: “He tried to excuse his absence by blaming it on transportation issues.”
16. Beg pardon
Definition: Slang term used as a polite way to request forgiveness or to apologize for a mistake.
Example: “Beg pardon for interrupting, but I have something important to add.”
17. Contrition
Definition: Slang term meaning sincere remorse, penitence, or regret for one’s actions.
Example: “He showed deep contrition for his hurtful words.”
18. Repentance
Definition: Slang term indicating sincere remorse or regret for past actions, often accompanied by a desire to change or make amends.
Example: “He sought repentance for his past mistakes and vowed to do better.”
19. Remorse
Definition: Slang term meaning deep regret, sorrow, or guilt for past actions.
Example: “She felt a deep sense of remorse for her involvement in the incident.”
20. Atonement
Definition: Slang term referring to making amends, seeking forgiveness, or making reparations for one’s actions.
Example: “He sought atonement by making a donation to the charity.”
21. Compunction
Definition: Slang term indicating a feeling of guilt, unease, or hesitation about a particular action or decision.
Example: “She had no compunction about speaking her mind, even if it caused conflict.”
22. Rue
Definition: Slang term meaning to feel regret, sorrow, or remorse for something.
Example: “He rued the day he ever got involved in the scheme.”
23. Guilt
Definition: Slang term indicating a feeling of responsibility or remorse for having done something wrong or causing harm.
Example: “She carried a heavy burden of guilt for her past actions.”
24. Shame
Definition: Slang term referring to a painful feeling of humiliation, regret, or disappointment in oneself.
Example: “He felt a deep sense of shame for betraying his friend’s trust.”
25. Regret
Definition: Slang term indicating a feeling of sadness, disappointment, or remorse for something that has happened or was not done.
Example: “She expressed regret for not pursuing her passion earlier in life.”
26. Redress
Definition: Slang term referring to making amends, providing compensation, or rectifying a wrong.
Example: “The company offered redress for the faulty product by issuing refunds to affected customers.”
27. Amend
Definition: Slang term meaning to make changes or corrections to something in order to improve it or rectify a mistake.
Example: “He sought to amend the error by revising the report before submission.”
28. Reconciliation
Definition: Slang term referring to the restoration of friendly relations or resolving a conflict after a disagreement or dispute.
Example: “They entered into a process of reconciliation to rebuild their friendship.”
29. Sorry about that
Definition: Slang term used to apologize or express regret for a mistake or inconvenience caused to someone.
Example: “Sorry about that, I accidentally deleted your email.”
30. Peccavi
Definition: Slang term of Latin origin meaning “I have sinned,” used humorously to admit wrongdoing or acknowledge a mistake.
Example: “Peccavi, I forgot to bring the documents to the meeting.”
31. Fault
Definition: Slang term indicating responsibility or blame for a mistake or error.
Example: “He accepted fault for the misunderstanding and took steps to resolve it.”
32. Oversight
Definition: Slang term referring to a mistake or error resulting from a failure to notice or consider something.
Example: “The omission of an important detail was an oversight on their part.”
33. Flub
Definition: Slang term meaning to make a mistake or error, often in a clumsy or awkward manner.
Example: “He flubbed his lines during the play and caused a moment of confusion.”
34. Screw-up
Definition: Slang term meaning a serious mistake, blunder, or failure.
Example: “The project was delayed due to a major screw-up in the planning phase.”
35. Misfire
Definition: Slang term referring to a failure or malfunction, particularly in a plan, action, or intended result.
Example: “The comedian’s joke misfired and received no laughter from the audience.”
36. Bungle
Definition: Slang term meaning to carry out a task or action clumsily, resulting in a mistake, failure, or mishap.
Example: “He bungled the presentation by forgetting important points and stumbling over his words.”
37. Snafu
Definition: Slang term derived from military jargon, referring to a chaotic or confused situation, often resulting from a mistake or error.
Example: “The last-minute changes caused a snafu in the event schedule.”
38. Blooper
Definition: Slang term referring to an embarrassing mistake or blunder, particularly in a recorded or broadcasted context.
Example: “The news anchor couldn’t stop laughing after making a blooper during the live broadcast.”
39. Fumble
Definition: Slang term meaning to mishandle or drop an object, fail to catch a ball, or make an error in movement or coordination.
Example: “He fumbled the ball during the crucial play, resulting in a turnover for the opposing team.”
40. Muff
Definition: Slang term meaning to make a mistake or error, particularly in handling or executing a task.
Example: “She muffed the presentation by forgetting important information and losing her train of thought.”
41. Fluff
Definition: Slang term meaning to make a mistake or error, particularly in speech, writing, or performance.
Example: “He fluffed his lines during the play and had to rely on improvisation to continue.”
42. Error
Definition: Slang term indicating a mistake, blunder, or fault in judgment, calculation, or execution.
Example: “The error in the calculation led to incorrect results.”
43. Reparation
Definition: Slang term referring to making amends, compensation, or restitution for a mistake or harm caused.
Example: “The company offered financial reparations to customers affected by the product recall.”
44. Restoration
Definition: Slang term indicating the act of repairing, fixing, or returning something to its original or intended state after damage or loss.
Example: “The restoration of the historical building brought it back to its former glory.”
45. Recompense
Definition: Slang term meaning to compensate or make amends for a mistake, loss, or injury.
Example: “He sought recompense for the damages caused by the faulty product.”
46. Compensation
Definition: Slang term referring to providing payment, benefits, or other forms of remuneration as a way to make up for a mistake or loss.
Example: “The company offered compensation to customers affected by the service disruption.”
47. Make good
Definition: Slang term meaning to fulfill a promise, rectify a mistake, or provide restitution for a loss.
Example: “He promised to make good on his commitment to deliver the project on time.”
48. Expiation
Definition: Slang term referring to the act of making amends or atoning for a mistake, wrongdoing, or sin.
Example: “He sought expiation for his past misdeeds through acts of kindness and charity.”
49. Penitence
Definition: Slang term indicating a feeling of remorse, regret, or sorrow for one’s actions, often accompanied by a desire to make amends or seek forgiveness.
Example: “He expressed deep penitence for his hurtful words and promised to change.”
50. Indemnity
Definition: Slang term referring to compensation, protection, or security provided against a potential loss, damage, or liability.
Example: “The insurance policy offered indemnity for any financial losses incurred.”
51. Satisfaction
Definition: Slang term indicating the fulfillment of a request, demand, or expectation, often used in the context of resolving a complaint or seeking redress.
Example: “The company offered a refund as a gesture of satisfaction for the customer’s complaint.”
52. Make-up
Definition: Slang term referring to compensation, reparation, or restitution provided to resolve a dispute or make amends for a mistake.
Example: “The parties reached a settlement as a make-up for the damages caused.”
53. Act of contrition
Definition: Slang term referring to a formal or sincere expression of remorse, often accompanied by a request for forgiveness.
Example: “He recited an act of contrition, acknowledging his mistakes and seeking redemption.”
54. Mia culpa
Definition: Slang term derived from the phrase “mea culpa” and used humorously to admit one’s own mistake or wrongdoing.
Example: “Mia culpa, I accidentally deleted the important file.”
55. Redressal
Definition: Slang term meaning to provide compensation or resolution for a mistake, grievance, or complaint.
Example: “The redressal process ensured that the customer’s concerns were addressed satisfactorily.”
56. Rectification
Definition: Slang term referring to the act of correcting, adjusting, or remedying a mistake, error, or problem.
Example: “He made rectifications to the contract to reflect the agreed-upon terms.”
57. Reprieve
Definition: Slang term indicating a temporary relief, respite, or pardon from a mistake or punishment.
Example: “The team received a reprieve when the opponent missed a crucial shot.”
58. Peace offering
Definition: Slang term referring to a gesture or action made in an attempt to reconcile or make amends with someone after a disagreement or conflict.
Example: “She brought a bouquet of flowers as a peace offering to mend their relationship.”
59. I goofed
Definition: Slang term used to admit making a mistake or error.
Example: “I goofed by forgetting to bring the important documents to the meeting.”
60. Eat crow
Definition: Slang term meaning to accept humiliation or admit to being wrong after previously asserting the opposite.
Example: “He had to eat crow and apologize after his predictions turned out to be completely inaccurate.”
61. Repent
Definition: Slang term meaning to feel regret, remorse, or sorrow for one’s past actions, often with a desire to change or seek forgiveness.
Example: “He repented for his dishonesty and promised to be more truthful in the future.”
62. Humble pie
Definition: Slang term referring to the experience of being humbled or brought down to a more modest or humble state, often as a result of admitting one’s mistakes or facing consequences.
Example: “After losing the competition, he had to eat humble pie and acknowledge the superior skills of his opponents.”
63. Olive branch
Definition: Slang term referring to an offer or gesture of peace, reconciliation, or resolution in order to end a conflict or disagreement.
Example: “She extended an olive branch by inviting him to a friendly conversation to resolve their differences.”
64. Penitency
Definition: Slang term indicating a state of feeling regret, remorse, or sorrow for one’s actions, often associated with seeking forgiveness or making amends.
Example: “He showed penitency for his past mistakes and committed to making positive changes.”
65. I’m wrong
Definition: Slang term used to admit that one has made a mistake or error.
Example: “I’m wrong, and I apologize for my previous statement.”
66. Ask pardon
Definition: Slang term meaning to request forgiveness or apologize for a mistake or wrongdoing.
Example: “I ask pardon for my behavior yesterday; I was out of line.”
67. I messed up
Definition: Slang term used to admit that one has made a mistake or error, often implying a sense of responsibility or regret.
Example: “I messed up the presentation by forgetting important details.”
68. Whoops
Definition: Slang term used to express surprise or mild dismay after making a mistake or witnessing an error.
Example: “Whoops, I accidentally pressed the wrong button.”
69. I blew it
Definition: Slang term used to admit that one has made a significant mistake or failed to achieve a desired outcome.
Example: “I blew it by missing the deadline for the project.”
70. Backtrack
Definition: Slang term meaning to retrace one’s steps or revise a previous statement or decision, often due to a mistake or change in circumstances.
Example: “After realizing my error, I had to backtrack and correct the information.”
71. I misspoke
Definition: Slang term used to acknowledge that one has made an error or conveyed information inaccurately while speaking.
Example: “I misspoke during the interview and provided incorrect statistics.”
72. Dropped the ball
Definition: Slang term meaning to fail in one’s responsibilities or fail to follow through on a task or obligation.
Example: “I dropped the ball by forgetting to submit the report on time.”
73. Goofed
Definition: Slang term used to admit making a mistake, error, or blunder.
Example: “I goofed by forgetting to save the changes to the document.”
74. Made a mistake
Definition: Slang term indicating that one has committed an error or acted in an incorrect or faulty manner.
Example: “I made a mistake by overlooking an important detail.”
75. I slipped up
Definition: Slang term used to acknowledge that one has made an error or mistake, often due to a lapse in judgment or attention.
Example: “I slipped up and sent the email to the wrong recipient.”
76. Erred
Definition: Slang term meaning to make a mistake or error, particularly in judgment, decision-making, or action.
Example: “She erred in assuming the project would be completed on time.”
77. I misjudged
Definition: Slang term used to admit that one has made an incorrect assessment or evaluation of someone or something.
Example: “I misjudged his abilities and underestimated his potential.”
78. I screwed up
Definition: Slang term used to admit making a serious mistake or error.
Example: “I screwed up by forgetting to save the important files.”
79. Tripped up
Definition: Slang term meaning to stumble, make an error, or encounter difficulty or obstacles in carrying out a task or action.
Example: “I tripped up during the presentation and forgot an important point.”
80. Retraction
Definition: Slang term referring to the act of withdrawing, revoking, or taking back a statement, assertion, or claim previously made.
Example: “He issued a retraction for his earlier statement due to inaccuracies.”
81. Mea maxima culpa
Definition: Slang term of Latin origin meaning “my most grievous fault,” used to acknowledge a significant mistake or error.
Example: “Mea maxima culpa, I failed to consider the consequences of my actions.”
82. Bonehead play
Definition: Slang term used to describe a foolish or stupid mistake, particularly in a sports or gaming context.
Example: “His bonehead play cost the team the game.”
83. Misdeed
Definition: Slang term referring to a wrongful or immoral act, often associated with regret or remorse.
Example: “He confessed his misdeeds and sought forgiveness.”
84. Misjudgment
Definition: Slang term indicating an error or mistake in judgment, often resulting in a wrong decision, assessment, or conclusion.
Example: “Her misjudgment led her to invest in a failing company.”
85. Mismanagement
Definition: Slang term referring to the improper or ineffective handling, control, or administration of something, resulting in negative consequences or poor outcomes.
Example: “The company’s mismanagement of funds led to financial instability.”
86. Confession
Definition: Slang term indicating the act of acknowledging, admitting, or revealing a mistake, wrongdoing, or secret.
Example: “He made a confession about his involvement in the incident.”
87. My mistake
Definition: Slang term used to take ownership and admit responsibility for a mistake or error.
Example: “My mistake, I misunderstood the instructions.”
88. I owe you one
Definition: Slang term used to express gratitude or acknowledge a favor owed to someone due to a mistake or error on one’s part.
Example: “I owe you one for covering my shift when I got the dates wrong.”
89. I’m in the wrong
Definition: Slang term used to acknowledge that one is at fault or in the incorrect position or stance regarding a particular situation or disagreement.
Example: “I realize I’m in the wrong and apologize for my behavior.”
90. I botched it
Definition: Slang term used to admit that one has made a significant mistake or error, often resulting in a failure or subpar outcome.
Example: “I botched the project by rushing through it without proper planning.”
91. Culpa
Definition: Slang term derived from Latin meaning “fault” or “blame,” used to acknowledge responsibility or admit one’s own mistake or error.
Example: “Culpa is mine; I should have double-checked the details.”
92. My oversight
Definition: Slang term used to acknowledge that one has failed to notice or consider something, often resulting in a mistake or omission.
Example: “I apologize for the inconvenience; it was my oversight not to inform you of the schedule change.”
93. My gaffe
Definition: Slang term used to admit that one has made an embarrassing or foolish mistake, particularly in social or professional situations.
Example: “I made a gaffe by accidentally revealing the surprise party before the intended time.”
94. I beg your pardon
Definition: Slang term used as a polite way to apologize, express regret, or request forgiveness for a mistake or offense.
Example: “I beg your pardon for my rude comment; it was uncalled for.”
95. Mulligan
Definition: Slang term derived from golf, referring to a second chance or do-over after making a mistake or poor shot.
Example: “Can I have a mulligan? I messed up the first attempt.”
96. My fault
Definition: Slang term used to admit that one is responsible or to take ownership of a mistake or error.
Example: “It’s my fault that the project was delayed; I underestimated the time required.”
97. I dropped the ball
Definition: Slang term used to acknowledge that one has failed to fulfill a responsibility or follow through on a task or commitment.
Example: “I dropped the ball by not following up on the client’s request.”
