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A2 verb #3,500 le plus courant 10 min de lecture

apologizar

To apologize; to express regret for something one has done wrong.

Top 3,500

At the A1 level, you are just starting your Portuguese journey. While 'apologizar' might look easy because it's like 'apologize', you should focus on simpler ways to say sorry first. Words like 'Desculpa' (Sorry) or 'Com licença' (Excuse me) are much more useful for a beginner. 'Apologizar' is a verb that ends in -ar, which means it follows the most common conjugation pattern in Portuguese. For example, 'Eu falo' (I speak) becomes 'Eu apologizo' (I apologize). However, you will rarely hear a native speaker say 'Eu apologizo' in a shop or a restaurant. Instead, they will say 'Desculpe'. Use this word only if you want to sound very formal or if you are reading a formal text. It is important to know that in Portuguese, we often use the phrase 'pedir desculpas' (to ask for apologies) instead of a single verb. A1 learners should recognize 'apologizar' when they see it in a book, but they don't need to use it in daily conversation yet. Focus on the basics of polite interaction first.

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As an A2 learner, you are building a foundation for more complex sentences. 'Apologizar' is a useful verb to know because it follows the regular -ar conjugation, which you are currently mastering. At this level, you can start using it in written exercises or formal contexts. For example, 'Ele precisa apologizar pelo atraso' (He needs to apologize for the delay). Notice the use of 'pelo', which is a combination of 'por' (for) and 'o' (the). Learning how 'apologizar' interacts with prepositions is a great way to improve your grammar. You should also start to notice the difference between 'apologizar' and 'desculpar-se'. While both mean to apologize, 'apologizar' is more common in professional emails or news reports. If you are writing a simulated email for a class, using 'apologizar' can show that you have a higher vocabulary level. Remember that the stress is on the last syllable: apo-lo-gi-ZAR. Practice saying it out loud to get the rhythm right.

At the B1 level, you are becoming an intermediate speaker and can handle more nuanced vocabulary. 'Apologizar' becomes a tool for adjusting your 'register'—the level of formality in your speech. You should understand that using 'apologizar' instead of 'pedir desculpas' makes you sound more serious and professional. This is the stage where you learn to use the verb in different tenses, like the Pretérito Perfeito ('Eu apologizei') and the Imperfeito ('Eu apologizava'). You should also be comfortable using it in the infinitive after other verbs, such as 'Eu gostaria de me apologizar' (I would like to apologize). In B1, you start to see 'apologizar' in more diverse contexts, like newspapers or business meetings. You might also encounter the reflexive form 'apologizar-se', which is common in European Portuguese. Understanding when to be formal and when to be casual is a key B1 skill, and 'apologizar' is a perfect example of a high-register word.

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At the B2 level, you are expected to have a strong command of vocabulary and style. You should know that 'apologizar' is often considered an anglicism by some linguistic purists in Brazil, who prefer 'pedir desculpas'. However, you will also see that it is widely used in corporate and legal environments. At B2, you should be able to use 'apologizar' in complex sentence structures, including the subjunctive mood: 'Duvido que a empresa se apologize publicamente' (I doubt the company will apologize publicly). You should also be aware of the noun 'apologia' and how it differs from a simple 'apology'. A B2 speaker can distinguish between 'apologizar por um erro' (apologizing for a mistake) and 'fazer apologia de um crime' (advocating for a crime). This level requires you to understand the cultural implications of your word choices. Using 'apologizar' in a very casual setting might be seen as a sign of being 'metido' (snobbish) or simply influenced too much by English.

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At the C1 level, your understanding of 'apologizar' should be near-native. You recognize that this verb carries a weight of formal acknowledgement and defense. You can use it in academic writing or high-level professional negotiations without hesitation. You are also aware of the historical and etymological roots of the word, linking it to the Greek 'apologia'. This allows you to understand classical texts where 'apologizar' might mean 'to defend a position' rather than just 'to say sorry'. You can fluently switch between 'apologizar', 'retratar-se', 'redimir-se', and 'pedir perdão' depending on the exact nuance you want to convey. For a C1 learner, 'apologizar' is not just a synonym for 'sorry'; it is a specific action that involves a formal statement of regret. You should also be able to identify its use in literature to characterize a person's social standing or personality. Your mastery of the verb's conjugation in all moods and tenses, including the more obscure ones like the Pluperfect, should be complete.

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At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over the word 'apologizar' and its place in the Portuguese language. You understand the subtle debates surrounding its usage as a potential loanword from English and how it has integrated into different Lusophone dialects. You can analyze the use of 'apologizar' in legal documents, diplomatic treaties, and philosophical treatises. You are comfortable using the word in its most archaic or specialized meanings, such as in the context of 'Apologética'. Furthermore, you can use the word to create specific rhetorical effects in your own writing, choosing it precisely for its formal tone or its phonetic qualities. A C2 speaker knows exactly how 'apologizar' sounds to a native ear in Lisbon versus São Paulo or Luanda. You can engage in discussions about linguistic evolution, using 'apologizar' as an example of how global English influences modern Portuguese. At this level, the word is just one of many precise tools in your expansive linguistic toolkit.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

apologizar en 30 secondes

A formal verb meaning 'to apologize' or 'to express regret'.
Primarily used in business, news, and formal correspondence.
Follows regular -ar conjugation and is often followed by 'por'.
Less common in daily speech than the phrase 'pedir desculpas'.

The Portuguese verb apologizar is an interesting case in the Lusophone world. Primarily, it means to express regret, to offer an apology, or to justify an action through a formal defense. While its English cognate 'apologize' is the standard way to say sorry, in Portuguese, apologizar carries a slightly more formal, sometimes even academic or literary weight. In everyday conversation, most native speakers will opt for the phrase pedir desculpas or the reflexive verb desculpar-se. However, apologizar is increasingly common in professional settings, formal correspondence, and translated media.

Formal Context: Used when a company or public figure issues a statement regarding a mistake or oversight.
Literary Usage: Often found in older texts or philosophy to mean 'making an apology' in the classical sense—defending a position.
Modern Influence: Frequently used in business environments influenced by international English terminology.

O diretor decidiu apologizar publicamente pelo erro no relatório anual.

Understanding the nuance of this word requires looking at its roots. It stems from 'apologia', which isn't just saying 'I'm sorry,' but providing a reasoned defense. When someone uses apologizar, they are often doing more than just feeling bad; they are formally acknowledging a fault. This is why you might hear a politician say they need to apologizar to their constituents, whereas a friend would simply say 'Desculpa' for being late to lunch.

Não é necessário apologizar por algo que você não controlava.

In terms of grammar, it follows the regular conjugation of -ar verbs. It is transitive, usually followed by the preposition 'por' (for) or 'pelo/pela' (for the). For example, 'apologizar por um atraso' (to apologize for a delay). Unlike the reflexive 'desculpar-se', apologizar is rarely used with reflexive pronouns in modern Brazilian Portuguese, though you might encounter 'apologizar-se' in some European Portuguese contexts or older literature.

Ela enviou uma carta para apologizar o comportamento de sua equipe.

Nós gostaríamos de nos apologizar formalmente perante o conselho.

To truly master this word, observe how it contrasts with 'perdoar' (to forgive). While 'apologizar' is the act of the offender, 'perdoar' is the act of the victim. In Portuguese culture, the act of apologizing is deeply tied to social harmony (simpatia). Using a formal word like apologizar can sometimes signal that the speaker takes the matter very seriously, perhaps even legally or professionally.

Etymological Root: From the Greek 'apologia', meaning a speech in defense.

O autor usou o prefácio para apologizar suas ideias polêmicas.

Using apologizar correctly involves understanding its conjugation and the prepositions that typically follow it. As a regular -ar verb, it follows the same pattern as 'falar' or 'estudar'. However, the structure of the sentence changes depending on what you are apologizing for and to whom you are speaking.

The Preposition 'Por': This is the most common way to link the verb to the reason. 'Apologizar por [substantivo/verbo]'.
Indirect Objects: When apologizing to someone, we often use 'perante' (before/in front of) or 'a' (to), though 'pedir desculpas a' is much more natural.

Let's look at the present tense: 'Eu apologizo', 'Você apologiza', 'Nós apologizamos', 'Eles apologizam'. While grammatically correct, saying 'Eu apologizo' in a shop because you bumped into someone will sound very strange. You would say 'Desculpe'. Use apologizar in the third person or infinitive more often: 'Ele veio para se apologizar'.

Eu vim aqui hoje para apologizar pelos transtornos causados pela obra.

In the past tense (Pretérito Perfeito), it is used to describe a completed act of apology: 'O governo apologizou pelo incidente diplomático'. This highlights the formality—it’s an official record of an action. In professional writing, you might see: 'Vimos por este meio apologizar a nossa falha na entrega'.

Se você errou, o mínimo que deve fazer é apologizar.

Future and Conditional tenses are useful for making promises or polite requests. 'Eu me apologizaria se soubesse que te magoei' (I would apologize if I knew I hurt you). Or, 'A empresa irá apologizar em nota oficial'. Notice how the verb elevates the tone of the sentence immediately.

Nós nunca apologizaremos por defender a verdade.

When using the subjunctive, which expresses doubt or desire, apologizar appears in structures like: 'É importante que ele se apologize' (It is important that he apologizes). This is common in HR discussions or mediation where behavior is being analyzed.

Imperative: Apologize! (Apologize-se! or Apologize!). Though 'Peça desculpas!' is 10x more common.

Eles decidiram apologizar pela confusão durante o evento.

You will not hear apologizar in a bakery, at a football match, or while hanging out with friends in a bar. In those places, the air is filled with 'Desculpa', 'Foi mal', or 'Perdão'. So, where does apologizar live? It lives in the 'Jornal Nacional' (news), in the boardroom of a multinational corporation in São Paulo, or in the pages of a translated self-help book.

The Newsroom: Reporters often use it to describe diplomatic actions. 'O ministro se recusou a apologizar pelas declarações'.
Corporate Emails: In the world of B2B (Business to Business), 'apologizar' sounds professional and detached, which is often preferred in legal-adjacent communication.

Another place you'll hear it is in dubbed movies. Because 'apologize' is so common in English, and 'apologizar' has a similar mouth movement (lip-sync), translators often choose it over the longer 'pedir desculpas'. This has led to a 'brazilianization' of the word, where younger generations who consume a lot of American media might use it more than their parents did.

No filme, o herói para tudo para apologizar à heroína.

In academic circles, especially in philosophy or theology, apologizar retains its original meaning of 'to defend'. A student might 'apologizar uma tese' (defend a thesis). This is a rare usage but important for advanced learners to recognize. It comes from 'Apologética', the religious discipline of defending religious doctrines.

O porta-voz da ONU teve que apologizar pelo mal-entendido entre as nações.

In Portugal, the word is slightly more accepted in standard speech than in Brazil, but even there, it remains a 'high-register' choice. If you are watching a formal debate on RTP (Portuguese public television), you are likely to hear it. It signals that the speaker is educated and choosing their words with precision.

Literature: Modern novelists use it to create a specific character voice—perhaps someone who is stiff, formal, or emotionally distant.

O advogado sugeriu que o réu deveria apologizar antes do veredito.

Não basta sentir culpa; é necessário apologizar formalmente.

The biggest mistake English speakers make with apologizar is overusing it. Because it looks and sounds exactly like 'apologize', learners use it in every situation where they would use the English word. This is a classic 'false friend' trap—not because the meaning is wrong, but because the frequency and register are different.

Mistake 1: Casual Overuse: Saying 'Eu apologizo' when you step on someone's toe. Correct: 'Desculpa!' or 'Perdão!'.
Mistake 2: Preposition Confusion: Using 'para' instead of 'por'. Incorrect: 'Apologizar para o erro'. Correct: 'Apologizar pelo (por + o) erro'.

Another mistake is the confusion between 'apologizar' and 'fazer uma apologia'. In Portuguese, 'fazer uma apologia' often means to praise or defend something controversial (like 'apologia ao crime'). If you tell someone 'Eu fiz uma apologia a você', they might think you gave a speech defending them against accusations, rather than just saying sorry.

Errado: Eu apologizo por chegar cinco minutos tarde no jantar.

Reflexivity is another stumbling block. While 'desculpar-se' is almost always reflexive, apologizar is often used without the 'se' in Brazil. However, if you are in Portugal, omitting the 'se' in a context where you are the one apologizing might sound incomplete. Always pay attention to local usage.

Cuidado: Não confunda apologizar com 'apologética', que é o estudo da defesa da fé.

Pronunciation can also be a pitfall. English speakers tend to put the stress on the 'o' (a-POL-o-gize). In Portuguese, the stress is on the 'za' (a-po-lo-gi-ZAR) because it ends in 'r'. Failing to shift the stress makes the word unintelligible to native ears.

Spelling: Note the 'z'. In older texts, you might see 'apologisar' with an 's', but modern orthography requires 'z'.

Muitos alunos esquecem de conjugar o verbo corretamente e dizem 'Eu apologize', misturando os idiomas.

Ao escrever, lembre-se: apologizar é uma escolha de estilo, use com moderação.

To expand your vocabulary, it's essential to know the alternatives to apologizar. Portuguese has a rich set of words for expressing regret, each with its own level of intensity and social context. Comparing these will help you choose the right word for the right moment.

Pedir desculpas: The most common and versatile choice. Used for everything from minor accidents to serious mistakes. 'Eu peço desculpas'.
Desculpar-se: The reflexive verb form. Often used in narrative: 'Ele se desculpou pelo atraso'.
Pedir perdão: Much stronger than 'desculpas'. 'Perdão' implies a deep moral or emotional fault. You ask for 'perdão' from a spouse or God.
Retratar-se: A legalistic term meaning to take back what was said. 'O jornal teve que se retratar'.

How do these compare to apologizar? Think of it as a scale of formality. At the bottom (casual) you have 'Foi mal'. In the middle (standard) you have 'Desculpa'. At the top (formal/official) you have apologizar and 'retratar-se'.

Em vez de apologizar, ele preferiu simplesmente ignorar o ocorrido.

Another related word is 'justificar-se' (to justify oneself). While apologizar usually accepts blame, 'justificar-se' often tries to explain why the mistake happened, sometimes to deflect blame. In a professional setting, you might do both: 'Eu me apologizo pelo erro e gostaria de justificar que o sistema estava fora do ar'.

A diferença entre apologizar e pedir desculpas é puramente uma questão de registro linguístico.

Finally, consider 'lamentar' (to regret). This is very common in formal business letters: 'Lamentamos o ocorrido' (We regret what happened). It’s a way of expressing sympathy or regret without necessarily taking full personal responsibility in the way apologizar does.

Pode-se apologizar verbalmente ou através de uma carta formal.

O uso de apologizar em contextos informais pode soar pretensioso.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

Neutre

Informel

Child friendly

Argot

Le savais-tu ?

In its original Greek sense, an 'apology' wasn't saying 'I'm sorry'; it was a high-stakes legal defense. Socrates' 'Apology' is actually him explaining why he shouldn't be executed, not expressing regret!

Guide de prononciation

UK /ɐ.pu.lu.ʒi.ˈzaɾ/

US /a.po.lo.ʒi.ˈzaʁ/

The primary stress is on the last syllable: 'zar'.

Rime avec

Falar Cantar Andar Pensar Lembrar Acreditar Realizar Finalizar

Erreurs fréquentes

Stressing the 'lo' syllable like in English 'a-POL-o-gize'.
Pronouncing the 'g' as a hard 'g' (like goat) instead of a soft 'j' sound (like pleasure).
Forgetting to pronounce the final 'r'.
Using an English 'z' sound that is too buzzy; it should be smooth.
Merging the 'i' and 'a' into a single sound.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize for English speakers due to its similarity to 'apologize'.

Écriture 4/5

Middle difficulty; conjugation is easy but using the correct register and prepositions requires care.

Expression orale 5/5

Challenging because of the stress shift to the final syllable and the risk of sounding too formal.

Écoute 3/5

Easy to hear, though it might be confused with 'apologia' in academic contexts.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

Desculpa Perdão Falar Por Pelo

Apprends ensuite

Retratar-se Arrepender-se Justificar Lamentar Redimir

Avancé

Apologética Hermenêutica Protocolar Cordialidade Soberba

Grammaire à connaître

Regular -ar Verb Conjugation

Eu apologizo, tu apologizas, ele apologiza, nós apologizamos, eles apologizam.

Contraction of 'Por' with Articles

Apologizar + por + o = Apologizar pelo. Apologizar + por + a = Apologizar pela.

Reflexive Pronoun Placement

Eu me apologizo (Brazil) vs. Apologizo-me (Portugal/Formal).

Subjunctive Mood for Desires/Necessity

É necessário que ele se apologize.

Infinitive Personal

Para nós apologizarmos, precisamos de um motivo.

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Exemples par niveau

Eu quero apologizar pelo erro.

I want to apologize for the mistake.

A1: Simple present with 'quero' + infinitive.

Você pode apologizar agora?

Can you apologize now?

A1: Question with 'pode' + infinitive.

Nós vamos apologizar amanhã.

We are going to apologize tomorrow.

A1: Future with 'ir' + infinitive.

Ela não quer apologizar.

She doesn't want to apologize.

A1: Negative sentence.

Eles precisam apologizar.

They need to apologize.

A1: Using 'precisar' + infinitive.

Por que você não apologiza?

Why don't you apologize?

A1: Simple present question.

Eu apologizo por tudo.

I apologize for everything.

A1: Simple present conjugation.

É bom apologizar.

It is good to apologize.

A1: Impersonal expression.

O aluno apologizou pelo atraso na aula.

The student apologized for the delay in class.

A2: Pretérito Perfeito (past tense).

A empresa vai apologizar aos clientes.

The company will apologize to the customers.

A2: Future construction.

Eu me apologizo se fui rude.

I apologize if I was rude.

A2: Reflexive use 'me apologizo'.

Eles sempre apologizam quando erram.

They always apologize when they make a mistake.

A2: Adverb 'sempre' with present tense.

Você deve apologizar pelo seu comportamento.

You should apologize for your behavior.

A2: Modal verb 'deve'.

Nós apologizamos pela confusão de ontem.

We apologize for yesterday's confusion.

A2: Pretérito Perfeito 'nós' form.

Ela não gosta de apologizar.

She doesn't like to apologize.

A2: Verb 'gostar de' + infinitive.

O gerente apologizou pessoalmente.

The manager apologized personally.

A2: Use of an adverb 'pessoalmente'.

Se eu soubesse, teria apologizado antes.

If I had known, I would have apologized sooner.

B1: Conditional compound tense.

É importante que você se apologize logo.

It is important that you apologize soon.

B1: Present Subjunctive after 'É importante que'.

O autor decidiu se apologizar em seu novo livro.

The author decided to apologize in his new book.

B1: Reflexive infinitive in a complex sentence.

Eles estavam prontos para apologizar quando chegamos.

They were ready to apologize when we arrived.

B1: Imperfeito + 'para' + infinitive.

Mesmo sem culpa, ele preferiu apologizar.

Even without being guilty, he preferred to apologize.

B1: Concessive phrase 'Mesmo sem'.

Gostaríamos de apologizar por qualquer inconveniência.

We would like to apologize for any inconvenience.

B1: Conditional 'Gostaríamos' for politeness.

Ela se apologizava toda vez que falhava.

She used to apologize every time she failed.

B1: Imperfeito showing habitual action.

Espero que eles apologizem pelo que disseram.

I hope they apologize for what they said.

B1: Present Subjunctive after 'Espero que'.

O político recusou-se a apologizar pelas suas falas polêmicas.

The politician refused to apologize for his controversial remarks.

B2: Reflexive verb with enclisis (recusou-se).

A instituição deve apologizar-se perante a comunidade.

The institution must apologize to the community.

B2: Formal preposition 'perante'.

Não basta apologizar; é preciso mudar a atitude.

It's not enough to apologize; it's necessary to change the attitude.

B2: Use of semicolon and impersonal 'é preciso'.

Caso ele se apologize, poderemos perdoá-lo.

In case he apologizes, we will be able to forgive him.

B2: Conditional 'Caso' + Subjunctive.

O jornal foi forçado a apologizar publicamente.

The newspaper was forced to apologize publicly.

B2: Passive voice 'foi forçado'.

Apologizar-se é o primeiro passo para a reconciliação.

To apologize is the first step toward reconciliation.

B2: Infinitive as a noun/subject.

Embora tenha apologizado, o dano já estava feito.

Although he apologized, the damage was already done.

B2: Compound Subjunctive 'tenha apologizado'.

Ele apologizou de tal forma que todos acreditaram.

He apologized in such a way that everyone believed him.

B2: Consecutive clause 'de tal forma que'.

A diplomacia exige que saibamos quando apologizar sem comprometer a soberania.

Diplomacy requires that we know when to apologize without compromising sovereignty.

C1: Complex structure with 'exige que' + Subjunctive.

O réu tentou apologizar sua conduta alegando legítima defesa.

The defendant tried to justify his conduct by claiming self-defense.

C1: Using 'apologizar' in the sense of 'to justify/defend'.

Sua relutância em apologizar-se denota uma soberba incurável.

His reluctance to apologize denotes an incurable pride.

C1: Sophisticated vocabulary like 'relutância' and 'soberba'.

Apologizar é um ato de coragem intelectual, não de fraqueza.

To apologize is an act of intellectual courage, not weakness.

C1: Philosophical abstract statement.

Ficou implícito que ele deveria apologizar-se perante o conselho de ética.

It was implied that he should apologize to the ethics committee.

C1: Impersonal passive 'Ficou implícito'.

A empresa emitiu uma nota para apologizar o lapso ocorrido na última gestão.

The company issued a note to apologize for the lapse that occurred in the last administration.

C1: Formal business terminology 'lapso' and 'gestão'.

Muitos consideram o termo 'apologizar' um estrangeirismo desnecessário.

Many consider the term 'apologizar' an unnecessary foreignism.

C1: Metalinguistic discussion about the word itself.

Ele não apenas apologizou, mas também buscou reparar o erro financeiramente.

He not only apologized but also sought to repair the mistake financially.

C1: Correlative conjunction 'não apenas... mas também'.

A hermenêutica do texto sugere que o autor não pretendia apologizar, mas sim confrontar.

The hermeneutics of the text suggest that the author did not intend to apologize, but rather to confront.

C2: Academic terminology 'hermenêutica'.

Raras vezes se viu um monarca apologizar-se com tamanha humildade.

Rarely has a monarch been seen apologizing with such humility.

C2: Inversion and high-register 'se viu'.

O embaixador soube apologizar o incidente sem ferir os brios nacionais.

The ambassador knew how to apologize for the incident without hurting national pride.

C2: Use of the idiom 'brios'.

A apologia que ele fez de si mesmo foi mais um ataque do que um pedido de desculpas.

The defense he made of himself was more of an attack than an apology.

C2: Contrast between 'apologia' (defense) and 'desculpas'.

Subjaz à sua fala uma tentativa desesperada de se apologizar perante a história.

Underlying his speech is a desperate attempt to justify himself before history.

C2: Using the verb 'subjaz'.

Apologizar-se tardiamente pode ser interpretado como um gesto meramente protocolar.

Apologizing late can be interpreted as a merely protocolar gesture.

C2: Use of 'meramente' and 'protocolar'.

A capacidade de apologizar-se é intrínseca à maturidade política de um líder.

The ability to apologize is intrinsic to the political maturity of a leader.

C2: Abstract, high-level sociological statement.

O texto jurídico obriga a parte a apologizar o dano moral causado.

The legal text obliges the party to apologize for the moral damage caused.

C2: Legal context.

Collocations courantes

Apologizar publicamente

Apologizar formalmente

Apologizar por escrito

Apologizar sinceramente

Apologizar perante o conselho

Recusar-se a apologizar

Apologizar pelo atraso

Apologizar pelo transtorno

Tentar se apologizar

Exigir que apologizem

Phrases Courantes

Venho por este meio apologizar...

Não há nada a apologizar.

Sinto que devo apologizar.

É o mínimo que posso fazer: apologizar.

Apologizar não custa nada.

Ele não teve a decência de apologizar.

Gostaria de me apologizar pessoalmente.

Apologizar por antecipação.

Sem intenção de apologizar.

Apologizar de todo o coração.

Souvent confondu avec

apologizar vs Apologia

Often means a defense or praise of something, not necessarily an apology.

apologizar vs Desculpar

The base verb for 'sorry'. 'Desculpar' means to forgive; 'Desculpar-se' means to apologize.

apologizar vs Justificar

To give reasons. An apology accepts blame; a justification explains it.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Engolir o sapo"

To endure something unpleasant without complaining, often instead of receiving an apology.

Tive que engolir o sapo e nem ouvi ele apologizar.

Informal

"Dar o braço a torcer"

To admit one was wrong, which usually leads to an 'apologizar'.

Ele finalmente deu o braço a torcer e veio se apologizar.

Neutral

"Limpar a barra"

To clear one's reputation, often through an apology.

Ele quer se apologizar só para limpar a barra com o chefe.

Slang

"Pôr panos quentes"

To try to calm a situation down, often using a formal apology to avoid conflict.

O gerente tentou pôr panos quentes e veio apologizar.

Neutral

"Cair em si"

To realize one's mistake, usually the moment before apologizing.

Ela caiu em si e resolveu se apologizar.

Neutral

"Bater no peito"

To take responsibility, often while apologizing.

Ele bateu no peito, assumiu o erro e veio apologizar.

Informal

"Pedir água"

To surrender or admit defeat, often involving a plea for forgiveness/apology.

Depois da discussão, ele veio pedir água e se apologizar.

Informal

"Baixar a bola"

To become less arrogant, which often precedes an 'apologizar'.

Você precisa baixar a bola e apologizar pelo que fez.

Slang

"Lavar as mãos"

The opposite of apologizing; refusing to take responsibility.

Em vez de apologizar, ele lavou as mãos.

Neutral

"Dar a cara a tapa"

To expose oneself to criticism, often by making a public apology.

Ele deu a cara a tapa e veio apologizar pelo erro da equipe.

Informal

Facile à confondre

apologizar vs Apologia

Looks like 'apology' but often means 'defense'.

Apologizar is the act of saying sorry; Apologia is a speech defending a belief.

Ele fez uma apologia ao socialismo (He made a defense of socialism).

apologizar vs Perdoar

Both involve the concept of 'sorry'.

Apologizar is what the offender does; Perdoar is what the victim does.

Eu apologizo e você me perdoa.

apologizar vs Lamentar

Both express negative feelings about an event.

Lamentar is 'to regret' (feeling); Apologizar is 'to apologize' (action).

Lamento o ocorrido, mas não vou apologizar porque não foi minha culpa.

apologizar vs Retratar

Both used in formal apologies.

Retratar-se is specifically 'to take back a statement'. Apologizar is more general.

O jornal se retratou pela notícia falsa.

apologizar vs Desculpar

The most common alternative.

Desculpar is 'to excuse' or 'to forgive'. To say 'I apologize', you need 'pedir desculpas'.

Pode me desculpar? (Can you forgive me?)

Structures de phrases

Eu quero [verbo].

Eu quero apologizar.

[Sujeito] apologizou por [substantivo].

O Pedro apologizou pelo atraso.

É importante que [sujeito] se [verbo no subjuntivo].

É importante que você se apologize.

[Sujeito] recusou-se a [verbo].

Ela recusou-se a apologizar.

Embora tenha [particípio], [consequência].

Embora tenha apologizado, ele perdeu o emprego.

Subjaz à [algo] uma tentativa de [verbo].

Subjaz à sua fala uma tentativa de se apologizar.

Mixed

Gostaria de [verbo] por [substantivo].

Gostaria de apologizar pela confusão.

Mixed

Não há necessidade de [verbo].

Não há necessidade de apologizar.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Medium overall, but High in professional/media domains.

Erreurs courantes

Eu apologizo por ser tarde. → Eu peço desculpas pelo atraso.
Using 'apologizar' for a simple delay sounds too robotic and formal. Also, 'por ser tarde' is a literal translation from English; 'pelo atraso' is better.
Ele apologizou para mim. → Ele se apologizou comigo (or 'pediu desculpas para mim').
The verb 'apologizar' usually takes 'com' or 'perante' when referring to the person receiving the apology, but 'pedir desculpas para' is the standard structure.
Eu apologizei o erro. → Eu apologizei pelo erro.
You don't apologize the error (direct object); you apologize FOR the error (indirect object with 'por').
Você pode me apologizar? → Você pode me desculpar?
'Apologizar' is the act of giving an apology, not receiving/granting it. You ask someone to 'desculpar' (forgive) you.
Ele fez uma apologia pelo crime. → Ele se apologizou pelo crime.
'Fazer uma apologia' often means to praise or defend something. If he is sorry, he should 'apologizar' or 'pedir desculpas'.

Astuces

When to use it

Reserve 'apologizar' for situations where you need to sound official. Use it in business letters, academic papers, or formal speeches. It adds a layer of seriousness to your regret.

The 'Por' Connection

Always remember that you apologize 'FOR' something. In Portuguese, this is 'por'. Don't forget to combine 'por' with the article: 'pelo' (masculine) or 'pela' (feminine).

The Stress Rule

Don't say 'a-POL-o-gizar'. Portuguese verbs ending in 'r' almost always have the stress on the final syllable. Say 'apolo-gi-ZAR'. This is the most common mistake for English speakers.

The Safe Alternative

If you are unsure whether 'apologizar' is too formal, just use 'pedir desculpas'. It is never wrong and always sounds natural in any context.

Brazilian Anglicisms

In Brazil, 'apologizar' is often used by people who work in tech or international business. It's an example of how English is shaping modern Portuguese. Using it shows you are part of that global culture.

Email Closings

A great way to end a formal complaint email is: 'Espero que possam apologizar pelo transtorno'. It sounds very sophisticated and firm.

Tone Control

Using 'apologizar' can actually make an apology feel less personal. If you want to sound truly heartfelt, 'pedir perdão' or a simple 'sinto muito' is much better.

The Philosophy Trap

If you are reading Plato or other philosophers in Portuguese, 'apologia' means 'defense'. Don't assume they are saying they are sorry!

Social Harmony

In Lusophone countries, the act of apologizing is more important than the specific word used. Even a formal 'apologizar' is better than staying silent after an error.

Flashcard Tip

On your flashcard, put 'apologizar' on one side and 'To apologize (Formal)' on the other. This will remind you not to use it casually.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of an 'APOLLO' mission that went wrong. The astronaut has to 'APOLOGIZAR' to the world for landing on the wrong planet. APOLLO + GIZAR.

Association visuelle

Imagine a giant 'Z' (for apologizar) being used to stitch together a broken heart or a broken plate.

Word Web

Apologizar Formal Desculpa Verbo Regret Business Defense Greek

Défi

Try to write a three-sentence formal email to an imaginary boss using 'apologizar' at least once. Focus on the 'pelo' or 'pela' contraction.

Origine du mot

The word 'apologizar' comes from the Latin 'apologia', which was borrowed from the Ancient Greek 'apologia' (ἀπολογία). In Greek, it literally meant 'a speech in defense'.

Sens originel : A formal justification or defense of an action or belief.

Indo-European -> Hellenic -> Greek -> Latin -> Romance -> Portuguese.

Contexte culturel

Be careful using 'apologizar' in situations of deep personal grief; 'pedir perdão' or 'meus pêsames' (condolences) is better. 'Apologizar' sounds too much like a business transaction.

English speakers find this word easy because it's a cognate, but they often use it in the wrong register (too formal for friends).

The Portuguese translation of 'Apology' by Plato (Apologia de Sócrates). Corporate press releases from companies like Petrobras or TAP Air Portugal. Dubbed versions of the song 'Apologize' by OneRepublic.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Business Email

Apologizamos pelo atraso
Lamentamos e apologizamos
Por favor, aceite nosso apologizar
Pedimos vênia para apologizar

Legal/Official

Apologizar publicamente
Nota de apologização
O réu deve apologizar
Retratar e apologizar

Academic/Philosophy

Apologizar uma tese
Apologia do pensamento
Discurso apologético
Apologizar a conduta

Media/Journalism

O ministro se apologizou
Recusa em apologizar
Nota oficial para apologizar
Apologizar via redes sociais

Social/Formal

Sinto que devo apologizar
Gostaria de me apologizar
Apologizar pessoalmente
Obrigado por apologizar

Amorces de conversation

"Você acha que é difícil para as pessoas apologizarem hoje em dia?"

"Quando foi a última vez que uma empresa teve que apologizar com você?"

"Você prefere que as pessoas peçam desculpas ou prefere que elas apenas mudem o comportamento?"

"Em seu país, é comum os políticos apologizarem pelos seus erros?"

"Você acha que 'apologizar' soa muito formal em uma conversa de bar?"

Sujets d'écriture

Escreva sobre uma vez que você teve que apologizar por algo difícil. Como você se sentiu?

Descreva uma situação em que uma empresa deveria ter apologizado, mas não o fez.

Reflita sobre a diferença entre 'pedir perdão' e 'apologizar'. Qual é mais importante para você?

Imagine que você é um porta-voz de uma grande empresa. Escreva uma nota para apologizar por um erro técnico.

Por que você acha que algumas pessoas têm tanta dificuldade em se apologizar?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, it is a real word found in all major Portuguese dictionaries. However, it is much more common in formal writing and business than in everyday conversation, where 'pedir desculpas' is preferred.

If you are talking to friends or family, use 'pedir desculpas'. If you are writing a formal email to a client or a public statement, 'apologizar' is a good choice to show professional respect.

It is a regular -ar verb. For 'I', it's 'Eu apologizei'. For 'He/She/You', it's 'Ele/Ela/Você apologizou'. For 'We', it's 'Nós apologizamos'. For 'They', it's 'Eles/Elas/Vocês apologizaram'.

In modern usage, yes. However, in academic or historical contexts, it can mean 'to defend' or 'to justify' a position, following its Greek root 'apologia'.

It is used in both countries, but it is slightly more frequent in European Portuguese formal speech. In Brazil, it is often seen as a direct influence from English 'apologize'.

You can, but it will sound very strange and overly formal. It's like saying 'I offer my formal apologies' to someone in a supermarket. Just say 'Desculpa' or 'Perdão'.

The most common is 'por'. It usually contracts with articles: 'apologizar pelo erro' (por + o) or 'apologizar pela falha' (por + a).

The closest noun is 'apologia', but be careful as it usually means 'defense'. For 'an apology', the standard Portuguese noun is 'desculpa' or 'pedido de desculpas'.

It can be used reflexively ('apologizar-se'), especially in Portugal. In Brazil, it is frequently used as a simple transitive verb ('apologizar por algo').

The stress is on the last syllable: ah-po-lo-zhee-ZAR. The 'g' sounds like the 's' in 'treasure' or 'j' in 'jet' but softer.

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