Day 18 of 30 Days of Intonation: I'm so sorry

For Day 18 of 30 Days of Intonation, we look at a common phrase used to apologize and express sympathy:

I'm so sorry

At first, I wasn't sure I wanted to include this phrase; after all, isn't the meaning so obvious?

While many people do use the expression with normal, neutral statement intonation in order to apologize, it may also take on different meanings.

So I decided to show you how tone can shift and change depending on the context.

In the video, you'll learn how we use stress in order to emphasize regret and concern, as well as how tone will shift to show sympathy and offer condolences after a tragedy.

I also describe how a pitch rise can emphasize fear and worry about consequences - as well as indicate that the person is sincerely sorry!

As in other videos, I show you how this expression is used sarcastically with a drop in tone or mockingly with wavy tone.

If you've ever sensed that someone's apology didn't match their tone, that's why. Remember, flat tone usually means annoyance or sarcasm. Listen for the emotion to see if someone means what they say.

Related Examples: