if you tell a person that you are going to do something but you dont do it due to unseen circumstances, and theres no way of letting the person know that you couldnt do it, should you still say sorry to the person?
2007-06-21 03:54:35 · 7 answers · asked by Ctell88 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
An apology for breaking a promise is never inappropriate, even when it's out of your hands.
And there are many reasons why we break a promise - car trouble, family emergency, sudden illness -
"I'm so sorry for not doing _____ last Tuesday. I had a ___good reason___ and simply couldn't make it. I am truly sorry for inconveniencing you so."
Providing that the reason is legitimate (I was shopping with my girlfriends and we lost track of time is not a legitimate reason) and the apology is sincere and prompt, your friend ought to understand and forgive you.
Now there are degrees to this - If, for example, you promised to meet someone at the park to exchange romance novels but had to take a sick child to the doctors - well, that's pretty minor. If, however, you promised to pick up and deliver a bride's wedding gown the day of her wedding - but you got stuck in traffic etc. - well, that's pretty major.
Nonetheless, whether it's a missed book exchange or missed wedding dress - an apology - even if things were beyond your control - is always appropriate.
2007-06-21 05:16:37 · answer #1 · answered by Barbara B 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Of course, that's the most polite thing to do. You are sorry for not being able to do whatever you promised to do. Even though it's not your fault (entirely) that you can't do it because of the unseen circumstances you should still feel bad that you won't be able to do what you promised. So yes you should be sorry.
2007-06-21 04:23:50 · answer #2 · answered by Tammy 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The problem and plus side of today's society is that most people do not know the difference between "I'm sorry" and "I apologize" I'm sorry is appropriate when you have genuine emotion behind it and feel bad. Whereas, "I apologize" would me that you recognize the need for a sentiment but do not necessarily feel bad or genuine about it. So depending on how you feel, choose which sentiment to use and do so accordingly. I know it has saved my behind many times.
2007-06-21 05:02:13 · answer #3 · answered by kevin t 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Its never too late or wrong to say you're sorry if its truly meant.
Explanations are only due if you're close to the person and feel circumstances need explaining.
2007-06-21 20:12:05 · answer #4 · answered by tab2732 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Of course. Are you suggesting you feel no regret or remorse for letting that person down, even under the circumstances? Because if you do, apologizing should be obvious, and if you don't, well, that's cold.
2007-06-21 04:00:32 · answer #5 · answered by stmichaeldet 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Of course. But is it true? Are you really sorry?
2007-06-21 04:07:07 · answer #6 · answered by babydoll 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When someone dies (Unless YOU killed them) you say that you are sorry.
2007-06-21 04:00:02 · answer #7 · answered by M H 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋