70+ Ways to Say I’m Sorry in a Funny Way

Everyone messes up and needs to make an apology from time to time, but saying “I’m sorry” doesn’t mean you need to be stuffy and serious. Adding a dash of humor to your apology can help break the tension as you ask for forgiveness. This article covers ways to say “I’m sorry” in a funny way when you owe an apology to someone in your life. Plus, we spoke with clinical psychologist Gera Anderson to get her top tips on delivering an apology. We’ve also included funny ways to respond when someone apologizes to you.

Top Humorous Apologies

“Please forgive me. I’ve been a human dumpster fire lately.”
“I’m sorry for what I said when I temporarily forgot how to be a decent human being.”
“Oh look! It’s me. I’m the problem here. Sorry about that.”
“I’m very sorry about what I said when I was hangry.”
“Yikes. Sorry about that. I forgot to check myself before I wrecked myself.”

Section 1 of 12:

Saying “I’m Sorry” in a Funny Way

Download Article

Make them laugh with an apology designed to tickle their funny bone. When you’re close to someone, serving up an apology with a side of humor is often the perfect way to make amends. Use one of these apologies to let them know you care enough to make them snort-laugh.
- “I’m very sorry about what I said when I was hangry.”
- “I’m sorry about the things my face said. I can’t control that jerk.”
- “I brought you a candle. It smells like I owe you an apology.”
- “I’m sorry. Clearly, I need to be supervised by a responsible adult.”
- “Please forgive me. I’ve been a human dumpster fire lately.”
- “When I make a mistake, I really go all in. I’m very sorry.”
- “I messed up big time. Please accept my apology…and this delicious chocolate.”
- “Listen. I know I should be ashamed of my behavior. I’m not, but I should be…and I’m sorry I hurt you.”
- “Can we hit ctrl+alt+del and do a restart? I’m really sorry.”

Section 2 of 12:

Cute Funny Ways to Say “I’m Sorry”

Download Article

Charm them with a cute and funny apology. In some situations, the best apologies are the most adorable ones. Adding a little cuteness to your apology can help soften even the grumpiest heart or turn a tense moment into a sweet memory for you both. Try one of these playful ways to say “I’m sorry”...and maybe even get a giggle.
- “I cereal-sly messed up. I’m so sorry.”
- “I’m really sorry. Can we rewind and start over?”
- “I’m very sorry. Thanks for poutine up with me!”
- “Seriously, you’re the best, and I’m the worst. I’m so sorry for what I did.”
- “Here’s a bouquet of oopsie-daisies. I’m really sorry for what I did.”
- “I’m sorry I was a brat…I’m the wurst.”
- “I’m really sorry I was so salty. If you’ll forgive me, I promise to only use my salt to make you french fries.”
- “Can we hug yet?”
- “Please consider this my formal apology.”

Section 3 of 12:

Creative Funny Ways to Say “I’m Sorry”

Download Article

Get creative with your apology to get a laugh. For some situations, a simple “sorry” feels a little…well…basic. That’s when it’s time to flex your creative muscles and craft an apology that’s truly unique—just like you! Try one of these imaginative ways to say, “my bad” to show you put real thought into making things right and showing genuine remorse.
- “I’m sorry. I’m only human…unless I need to figure out a CAPTCHA. In that case, I’m not able to prove I’m a human. But I’m still sorry.”
- “I’m sorry. I don’t even have some astrological event to blame it on. I’m just a jerk.”
- “Well, look who’s sorry now! It’s me. I’m sorry now.”
- “Sometimes it seems like I’m made of flaws stitched together with good intentions. I’m so sorry.”
- “I’m sorry my insecure inner child was such a brat. I feel terrible.”
- “i feel badder then my grammar……..I’m so sorry;”
- “I was probably tired or hungry, but I’m definitely sorry.”
- “After reviewing the instant replay, it turns out you were right, and I was wrong. I am truly sorry.”
- “The three hardest things to say are ‘I was wrong,’ ‘I need help,’ and Worcestershire sauce.’ I can do 2 out of 3.”

Section 4 of 12:

Funny & Sarcastic Ways to Say “I’m Sorry”

Download Article

Use a little sarcasm to say you’re sorry-not-sorry. Sometimes, you might feel like you have to apologize even when you don’t think you actually did anything wrong. In those cases, a savage bit of sarcasm might be just what you need. Just remember to be careful when you’re using sarcasm that might hurt someone’s feelings. But if you’re ready to add some sass to your apology, try one of these sarcastic comebacks.
- “I’d like to apologize to anyone I’ve not yet offended.”
- “I’m sorry you don’t know what a big deal I am.”
- “I’m not sure what I did wrong, but I can pretend I’m sorry pretty convincingly.”
- “I’m sorry. Did I accidentally insult you? I mean to do that on purpose.”
- “Sorry my intelligence is too much for you.”
- “I’m really sorry. Sometimes, the hardest thing to do is admit I’m right.”
- “I apologize that I haven’t done a better job pretending to listen to you.”
- “I’m not sure what I’m apologizing for, but it seems like the polite thing to say.”
- “I’m very sorry we always get into fights about things you’re wrong about.”
- “I’m not sorry for being myself, but I am sorry for the people who have to put up with me.”

Section 5 of 12:

Funny Ways to Say “Sorry” with Quotes

Download Article

Use a quote from a movie or song to apologize. Get a little inspiration from your favorite movie or song to make amends and show your remorse. Borrowing the wit and wisdom of someone else can give your apology a funny flair that earns you a laugh…and the other person’s forgiveness.
- “Yikes. Sorry about that. I forgot to check myself before I wrecked myself.” - Reference to “Check Yo Self” – Ice Cube
- “Apologies? Where we’re going, we don’t need apologies! Except we do. I’m sorry.” – Reference to Back to the Future
- “You want an apology? YOU CAN’T HANDLE AN APOLOGY! But I’m going to give it to you anyway.” – Reference to A Few Good Men
- “What we’ve got here is a failure to communicate. I’m sorry. It’s my fault.” – Reference to Cool Hand Luke
- “Love means never having to say you’re sorry…but it’s still a good idea. I’m so sorry.” – Reference to Love Story
- “As God is my witness, I’ll never be such a jacka** again.” – Reference to Gone with the Wind
- “Houston, we have a problem. I’m an idiot. I’m sorry.” - Reference to Apollo 13
- “Oh, I could tell you why I acted like such a jerk…if I only had a brain. I’m very, very sorry.” – Reference to The Wizard of Oz

Section 6 of 12:

Funny Ways to Say “Sorry” over Text

Download Article

Apologize over text with a funny message. It’s usually best to sincerely apologize in person, but that’s not always possible. The good news is that texting an apology is perfectly acceptable. When you want to text an apology, adding humor can help keep the vibe light while still sharing your genuine remorse. Keep in mind texts are usually more appropriate for minor offenses.^{[1]
X
Research source} Here are a few funny texts to send when you want to make amends digitally.
- “I feel worse than…😔☹️😰😢😟🥺😭🤕”
- “I know that I hurt you, but please know that I did it for one reason…I’m an idiot.🥸”
- “I spent hours composing the perfect apology text, but eventually, I gave up. My remorse is so deep it probably can only be described with a German word that has no English translation. I’ll just say ‘I’m sorry’ and be done with it.💔”
- “If you can’t handle me at my worst…I don’t blame you. I’m a mess.🥴🙈 Sorry.”
- “Mistakes were made…by me. And I’m sorry for them.🙇”
- “I’m sorry about what I said in caps lock.🥺”
- “#sorry😭
- “Okay, so nobody’s perfect. This is particularly true of me. I’m so sorry for what I said.😔❤️‍🩹”
- “This isn’t one of those typical ‘I’m sorry’ texts sent by someone too scared to say it in person. Obviously, but I am very, very, very sorry…and an idiot. Obviously.🥺🙏🙇”

Section 7 of 12:

Funny Ways to Say “Sorry” to Your Partner

Download Article

Inject a little humor when you apologize to your significant other. Sometimes, a little humor can help smooth over any rifts in your relationship. Not only does making them laugh when you own up to your mistakes show you care about their feelings, but it can also help strengthen your bond.^{[2]
X
Trustworthy Source

HelpGuide
Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources.

Go to source} Try one of these hilarious apologies to tickle their funny bone as you take responsibility for your words or actions.
- “Please forgive me for having the attention span of a squirrel on caffeine.”
- “I’m sorry for making such a big mistake. And I’m sorry for all the little mistakes the big one made you remember.”
- “Please forgive me for being more clueless than a goldfish in a maze.”
- “I know I drive you nuts. I'm sorry, and I'll try to do better. I love you.”
- “I apologize for being about as helpful as a broken compass.”
- “Please forgive me for being about as patient as a toddler on a sugar high.
- “I’m sorry for being as observant as a rock today.”
- “My bad! If apologies were flowers, I’d send you a garden.”
- “I’m sorry for being as attentive as a deaf bat.”
- “Ugh. I’m sorry. I’m about as sharp as a bag of hammers today.”

Section 8 of 12:

Funny Sorry Messages for Friends

Download Article

Give your friend a chuckle as you make amends. Forget your best buddy’s birthday? Or did you spill spaghetti sauce all over their favorite shirt? No matter what you did to cause offense, an apology is the best way to soothe hurt feelings and heal your relationship.^{[3]
X
Trustworthy Source

American Psychological Association
Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists

Go to source} Here are witty ways to apologize to a friend that will have them rolling their eyes (in a good way) and hopefully forgiving you.
- “I truly didn’t intend to be such a loser, but I went ahead and did it anyway. I’m sorry.”
- “I’m sorry I made things weird. I’ll probably do it again, but not on purpose.”
- “Sometimes there are no words for how big of a jerk I am. I’m really sorry.”
- “Sorry I’m such a psycho. Sometimes, I want to lock myself up.”
- “I am so sorry for being the absolute worst.”
- “I’m sorry for what I said when I temporarily forgot how to be a decent human being.”
- “There are things that should be left unsaid…which I realized after I said them. I’m so sorry.”
- “Man, I really suck. I’m so, so, so sorry.”
- “I’m so sorry you’re friends with such a jacka**. I promise to do better.”
- “I wouldn’t blame you if you were sticking pins in a doll that looks like me, but I’m really sorry.”

Section 9 of 12:

Funny Ways to Say “I’m Sorry” to Your Boss

Download Article

Keep things light when you apologize to your boss. When you use humor to apologize to your boss, it’s extremely important to walk the line between being a professional and showing your personality. Plus, humor helps people relax and lower stress levels.^{[4]
X
Trustworthy Source

HelpGuide
Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources.

Go to source} Who doesn’t want to chill out a little when they’re at work? Just make sure you keep the humor light and work-appropriate to avoid causing even more tension. Here are some clever ways to say you’re sorry and maybe help brighten your boss’s day.
- “Look. I messed up. We knew it was going to happen. And let’s face it, I’ll probably do it again. I’m really, really sorry about it, though.”
- “I’m sorry I’m moving as slow as a snail on tranquilizers today.”
- “Okay, fine. I guess one of us has to say it. You were right, and I was wrong. I’m sorry.”
- “I’m so sorry about what I said when I was overstimulated.”
- “Oh look! It’s me. I’m the problem here. Sorry about that.”
- “I’m sorry. I was about as organized as a pack of wild dogs.”
- “I’m sorry you had such a stressful day. I’m very sorry it was my fault.”
- “Please forgive me for being as effective as a screen door on a submarine.”
- “I’m sorry. I could really use a backspace button right about now.”

Section 10 of 12:

How to Be Funny & Apologize Effectively

Download Article

1
Determine if the other person would appreciate a funny apology. If you want your humor to actually diffuse tension between you and the other person, it’s important to know what they find funny. Any joke or other funny comment has to be right for the audience.^{[5]
X
Research source} If there’s a mismatch, you won’t get a laugh. Or worse, you might hurt the other person even worse.
- Trying to be funny when you apologize can backfire and make it seem like you aren’t taking the other person’s hurt feelings seriously.
- Only use a funny apology if you often share jokes with the other person.
- Keep your funny apologies for one-on-one situations. They can seem more mocking in a group or for larger offenses.
2
Use self-deprecating humor to take responsibility. Self-deprecating humor is when you make fun of yourself.^{[6]
X
Research source} Because you’re making yourself the butt of the joke, it reinforces the idea that you’re taking responsibility for your actions. It also shows you have some self-awareness of your negative traits.
- An example of self-deprecating humor in an apology is, “I’m so sorry. Clearly, my brain was operating at its usual 2% capacity when I did that.”
- Just remember, using too much self-deprecating humor can affect your confidence levels.
- Too much self-deprecating humor can also give others a negative view of you.
3
Exaggerate how you’ll go about making it up to them. Hyperbolic humor is a common tactic comedians use to make people laugh. It’s when you exaggerate a situation to the extreme to accentuate the humor.^{[7]
X
Research source} Try starting with a simple apology and then dialing things up to a ridiculous level.
- For example, “I’m sorry. Really sorry. Like, sorrier than a cat that fell into a bathtub. Sorrier than a T-Rex at a tea party who can’t reach the cups with their tiny little arms.”
- Keep your tone level even when you cross into completely absurd territory to make it even funnier.
4
Keep your funny apologies as sincere as possible. No matter how much humor you inject into your apology, it’s important to make sure the “I’m sorry” is genuine and authentic. Take responsibility for what you did. Make amends by asking the other person how you can make it up to them.^{[8]
X
Trustworthy Source

Greater Good in Action
An initiative by UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center promoting science-based practices for a meaningful life

Go to source}
- A simple “I’m sorry” delivered in a serious and sincere tone of voice might be all you need to get back into the other person’s good graces.
- Try to avoid saying something like, “I’m sorry my words upset you,” because it implies what you said is fine, and their reaction is the problem.
5
Save funny apologies for minor mistakes. Some mistakes can potentially end a relationship if the other person is hurt badly. A sincere, heartfelt apology can be a powerful tool to repair the damage and save the relationship.^{[9]
X
Trustworthy Source

American Psychological Association
Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists

Go to source} When you’ve done serious harm to someone or made a big mistake, a funny apology isn’t appropriate and might make the situation worse or hurt the other person more.
- It’s important to be serious, even when apologizing for unintentionally hurting someone.
- Taking the other person’s hurt seriously and putting in the effort to make it up to them shows you care about them.
- Try to let go of any defensiveness when you’re making your apology, even if you didn’t mean to hurt the other person.

Section 11 of 12:

What if they don’t accept the apology?

Download Article

1
Acknowledge their feelings and restate your apology seriously. Anderson says, “Acknowledge their feelings and any actions on your part that may have led to those feelings.”^{[10]
X
Expert Source

Gera Anderson, PsyD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Expert Interview} If the other person doesn’t appreciate the humor or is not ready to accept your apology, it’s time to drop the humor. It’s easy to misjudge how upset someone is about something you’ve said or done. Be sincere when you repeat your apology so it’s clear that you take the situation seriously and care about their feelings.
- Anderson recommends listening to the other person and accepting your responsibility for making them feel bad.^{[11]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Gera Anderson, PsyD
  Licensed Clinical Psychologist
  
  Expert Interview}
2
Accept that they aren’t ready to patch things up. The choice to accept an apology belongs to the other person. If they aren’t ready, there’s nothing you can do to repair your relationship. When they don’t accept your apology, it’s a sign that the damage to their feelings is worse than you thought. It’s important for you to respect that and give them time.^{[12]
X
Research source}
- If you’re confused or angry they didn’t accept your apology, take a breath and step back. Don’t react to a declined apology in a way that might damage your relationship even further.
- Give the other person space and let them know you’ll be there for them whenever they want to talk again.
- Say something like, “I respect your choice. I’m here for you if you ever want to talk.”
3
Make an effort to change your behavior. Whether the other person accepts your apology or not, use your experience to do better in the future. Your actions are what make your apology mean something.^{[13]
X
Research source} So commit to treating people better in the future, even if the person you hurt decides to decline your apology.
- Anderson recommends, “Tell the person what you are going to do to rectify the situation, how you will provide restitution, and how your actions will change should the situation arise in the future.”^{[14]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Gera Anderson, PsyD
  Licensed Clinical Psychologist
  
  Expert Interview}
- Don’t go out of your way to show the other person that you’ve changed. If they’re open to interacting with you, chances are they’ll notice your new behavior.

Section 12 of 12:

Witty Comebacks to an Apology

Download Article

Reply with a quick-witted comment when someone apologizes to you. Using a little humor when you accept an apology can be a great way to put the other person at ease. A witty reply can also help you diffuse tension and move past an awkward moment. These funny comments can help you respond to an apology in a funny way to keep the mood light.
- “Apology accepted, but you still owe me a pizza.”
- “I forgive you, but only because staying mad requires too much energy.”
- “You're forgiven. But just so you know, you've used up your monthly quota of mistakes.”
- “I’ll file your apology under “Pending Cases” for now. Just wait for a few days for the results.”
- “Don't be sorry, be better.”
- “I forgive you…this time. Next time, bring chocolate.”
- “I only accept apologies in cash.”
- “What’s your best offer?”
- “Apology accepted. Your groveling skills are improving.”
- “We’re all good…just remember this when I inevitably mess up next week.”