apologize, but I can't vs apologize that I can't

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Apologize, but I can't' is a common way to express an apology followed by a reason for not being able to do something. 'Apologize that I can't' is less common and may sound a bit formal or old-fashioned.

Last updated: April 01, 2024 • 585 views

apologize, but I can't

This phrase is correct and commonly used to apologize and provide a reason for not being able to do something.

This phrase is used to apologize for a situation or action and then explain the reason for being unable to fulfill a request or expectation.

Examples:

I apologize, but I can't make it to the meeting tomorrow.
Apologize, but I can't help you with that task right now.
I apologize, but I can't accept your invitation.
Apologize, but I can't stay longer.
I apologize, but I can't lend you any money at the moment.

Show examples from the web [+]

Here's the thing. I know I'm putting you in a very uncomfortable position, and I apologize, but I can't tell you how many times this has happened to me.
I can't imagine what's kept Albert, but I apologize on his behalf.
But I can't rely on just that.
But I can't rush things.
But I'm afraid I can't forgive you.
But I can't just go home and forget about it.
But I can't send my family out into the woods with some potential paranormal psychopath and I can't be two places at once.
I know I can't undo it all, but I'd like to apologize was all for this day!
But I can't do it legally without malpractice insurance.
I hear something, but I can't see anything.
But I can't find a physical reason for it.
I should stay with him, but I can't.
But I can't hate him myself.
But I can't fire de la Rosa.
Good workmanship, but I can't keep that.
But I can't fill up a space shuttle with geriatrics.
But I can't do that, Bill.
But I can't be this person without taking pills.
But I can't arrest him for looking the wrong way.
But I can't be with you guys anymore.

Alternatives:

I'm sorry, but I can't
Sorry, I can't
I regret that I can't
Unfortunately, I can't
Regrettably, I can't

apologize that I can't

This phrase is correct but less common. It may sound more formal or old-fashioned compared to the first phrase.

This phrase can be used to apologize for not being able to do something, but it is less commonly used in modern English.

Show examples from the web [+]

I'm here because I can't apologize to my son.
I can't apologize to you enough.
I can't apologize more than I already have.
I can't apologize for love, Ray.
I can't apologize enough for what Junior did to you.
I can't apologize to Hideshi anymore.
Ellie, I can't apologize enough.
I can't apologize for being confident in my abilities.
I apologize, I can't seem to turn off the therapist mode.
So, we apologize that we can't bring you, the story of the murders that was originally scheduled.
Therefore I can't apologize, why should I be unjustly blamed?
Casey, I can't apologize enough for that accidental touching in there.
Can't apologize, so can't break the ice.
I can't apologize for something that I didn't do
Here's the thing. I know I'm putting you in a very uncomfortable position, and I apologize, but I can't tell you how many times this has happened to me.
And I can't apologize for it because it wasn't anything I did on purpose.
I apologize if you can't understand a word I'm saying.
Apologize if you can't do anything.
Apologize if you can't do anything.
You can't apologize, we can't talk.

Alternatives:

I apologize for not being able to
I'm sorry that I can't
I regret that I can't
Unfortunately, I can't apologize
Regrettably, I can't

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apologize, but I can't vs apologize that I can't