10 Ways to Accept an Apology

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Learning to apologize is a key English skill, but knowing how to accept an apology is just as important! When someone says “I’m sorry,” your response matters. It shows you are graceful, ready to move on, and helps you keep a strong relationship with that person. Knowing these phrases will make you sound much more natural and polite.

10 Essential Ways to Accept an Apology

When you need to accept an apology, the right words can smooth things over quickly and completely. Here are 10 phrases you can use, from very informal expressions to formal, direct statements.

1. It’s okay.

Meaning: This is the most common and simple response for minor mistakes or small accidents. It immediately signals that you are not upset. Example: (After someone bumps into you) “Oh, I’m sorry!” → “It’s okay. Don’t worry about it.”

2. No worries.

Meaning: An informal and friendly way to accept an apology, popular in many English-speaking countries. It means “it didn’t cause a problem” or “it’s not important.” Example: (After a friend cancels plans last minute) “I’m so sorry I can’t make it.” → “No worries. We can reschedule.”

3. I accept your apology.

Meaning: This is a very direct and clear response, often used in more formal settings or when the mistake was serious. It leaves no room for doubt. Example: (In a professional setting) “I sincerely apologize for the delay in processing the paperwork.” → “I accept your apology. Please make sure it doesn’t happen again.”

4. Thanks for apologizing.

Meaning: Acknowledging the person’s effort and sincerity. This is useful when the person had a difficult time admitting their mistake. Example: (After a misunderstanding) “I’m sorry, I should have listened better.” → “Thanks for apologizing. I appreciate you saying that.”

5. I appreciate that. / I appreciate you saying that.

Meaning: This focuses on the feeling behind the apology rather than the mistake itself. It shows you value their honesty and courage. Example: (For a sensitive issue) “I’m sorry for hurting your feelings.” → “I appreciate you saying that. Let’s move forward.”

6. Don’t worry about it.

Meaning: A kind and reassuring way to tell the person to relax and stop feeling guilty. It’s perfect for casual situations. Example: (After a small spill) “Oh no, I spilled your coffee, I’m so sorry!” → “Don’t worry about it. It’s just a little bit.”

7. Let’s just forget about it.

Meaning: A good phrase to use when you want to quickly move on from the conversation and not dwell on the past mistake. Example: (After a small argument) “I’m sorry for the argument we had.” → “Let’s just forget about it. It’s over now.”

8. I forgive you.

Meaning: This is reserved for major, personal, or emotional situations where the person truly needs your forgiveness to find closure. It’s often used when feelings were hurt. Example: (After a big personal falling-out) “I truly regret what I said to you.” → “I know you do. I forgive you.”

9. It’s water under the bridge.

Meaning: This is an English idiom that means the mistake or problem is in the past and no longer important or relevant. Use it when you want to show you have completely let go of the incident. Example: (When someone brings up an old mistake) “Are you still mad about that day I forgot to pick you up?” → “Of course not. It’s water under the bridge.”

10. Apology accepted.

Meaning: A simple, concise, and definitive way to confirm that you have heard and accepted their regret. It can sound a bit formal or serious, so match it to the seriousness of the situation. Example: (After a coworker missed an important deadline) “I apologize for the oversight.” → “Apology accepted. Now, how can we fix this?”

Practice Makes Perfect

Now you have a great range of expressions to gracefully accept an apology in any situation. Whether it’s a casual No worries or a more formal I accept your apology, using the right response shows maturity and kindness. Practice these phrases today so you are ready the next time someone says “I’m sorry” to you! 😊