20 Ways to Stop Saying “Sorry” and Sound More Confident Instead
Let’s talk about a small habit that makes a big difference in how others perceive you at work.
In my coaching practice, I often help clients communicate more assertively — while still being kind and respectful.
One pattern I see again and again?
Over-apologising.
Even the most capable professionals (especially the most self-aware ones!) often start their contributions with a “sorry” — whether it’s a question, a message, or a meeting interruption.
“Sorry to bother you”
“Sorry I didn’t respond sooner”
“Sorry, can I ask a question?”
Here’s the problem: constant apologising chips away at your presence and credibility. It can make you seem unsure, overly self-critical, or even as if you’ve done something wrong — when you haven’t.
So today, I’m sharing practical swaps you can use to speak with more confidence — without sounding cold or arrogant.
Why this matters
We tend to view people who don’t over-apologise as more composed and trustworthy.
When “sorry” is used sparingly, it retains its power. Your genuine apologies will sound more sincere — and land with more meaning — if you’re not saying sorry every five minutes.
The good news? You can change this habit by starting small.
Here are 20 phrases to try instead of leading with “sorry”:
Instead of: “Sorry, can I ask a question?”
Try: “I have a question about [specific topic] — is now a good time?”Instead of: “Sorry for being late” (by a couple of minutes)
Try: “Thanks for your patience.”Instead of: “Sorry for rescheduling”
Try: “Thanks for being flexible.”Instead of: “Sorry to bother you”
Try: “Do you have a moment to discuss [topic]?” → then follow with: “Thanks for making the time.”Instead of: “Sorry for taking your time”
Try: “Thank you for your time today.”Instead of: “Sorry for venting”
Try: “Thanks for listening — I really appreciate it.”Instead of: “Sorry for jumping in”
Try: “I have an idea that might help.” or “I’d like to add something here.”Instead of: “Sorry for the mistake”
Try: “Thanks for catching that.”Instead of: “Sorry, I don’t get it”
Try: “Could you go over that again? I want to make sure I understand.”Instead of: “Sorry, does that make sense?”
Try: “I’m happy to clarify or answer any questions.”Instead of: “Sorry, I forgot”
Try: “Thanks for the reminder — I’ll take care of it now.”Instead of: “Sorry, I’m bad at this”
Try: “I’m still learning — I appreciate your support.”Instead of: “Sorry for the confusion”
Try: “Let me clarify that for you.”Instead of: “Sorry to ask again”
Try: “Just following up on this.”Instead of: “Sorry I missed that”
Try: “Could you repeat that, please?”Instead of: “Sorry, I’m not sure”
Try: “Let me check and get back to you.”Instead of: “Sorry, I can’t make it”
Try: “I won’t be able to attend, but I appreciate the invite.” (One of my favourites!)Instead of: “Sorry for any inconvenience”
Try: “Thanks for your understanding as we resolve this.”Instead of: “Sorry I didn’t respond sooner”
Try: “Thank you for your patience.”Instead of: “Sorry it took so long”
Try: “Thanks for waiting — here’s the update.”
A shift in mindset
Notice a pattern? Most of these shifts come down to this:
Start with gratitude, not apology.
That simple tweak can instantly elevate how you come across — more confident, thoughtful, and grounded.
And here’s the bonus: when you speak more confidently, you often feel more confident, too.
Which “sorry” are you ready to retire first?
Let me know in the comments — or save this post for the next time you catch yourself saying “sorry” out of habit.
Need help with confidence building? Book a free Clarity Session and get the support that you need.