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Women Spill The Craziest Apologies They’ve Heard From Men (30 Examples)
Interview With Expert
Today, we are going to talk about the three magic words, "I am sorry". That's how easy it is to apologize; wouldn't you think so? Well, apparently not, because people don't always say what they mean, and at times, they twist their words just to escape accountability.
When X (formerly Twitter) user moh__mi asked netizens to "apologize like a man," people couldn't hold back. Well, especially women, as they let out the most ridiculous and hilarious "apologies" that they have received from men, and trust us, almost all of these don't even sound like apologies!
More info: X
Image credits: Timur Weber / Pexels (not the actual photo)
Image credits: moh__mi
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Depressed Lesbian(she/they/he) 1 year ago
Basically my dad’s response to me confronting him about him calling me evil(at the time I was a minor)
RELATED:
#2
Space Invader 1 year ago (edited)
If you can't help making me feel bad, why should I tolerate your presence?
Jonas Fisher 1 year ago
I know the point of this is humor, but I (M50) have said this. A college gf had gone with a friend to the bar where I worked one night. It was a busy night, and I didn't see her there. She never tried to get my attention, either. When I got home that night, she was waiting on my porch (it was summer) and I was happy to see her. She proceeded to stalk past me. When I finally managed to pry out of her what was wrong...well, what was I supposed to say?
Jill Rhodry 1 year ago
Oh, he's just a baby narc - he's not yet learnt to say: "I'm sorry you feel that way"
#3
Irene Erikson 1 year ago
I'm always amazed at how easily people can use words to avoid responsibility.
To understand why men refuse to apologize, Bored Panda got in touch with Sri Rajasekar, a marriage coach for women, who mentioned, "The tendency for women to apologize more frequently than men can be viewed through various lenses. While some interpretations suggest it reflects societal power dynamics, it’s essential to consider that both men and women navigate different expectations and pressures in relationships. "
"Cultural norms often encourage women to be more relational and nurturing, which can lead to more frequent apologies. However, men may feel societal pressure to embody strength and assertiveness, which can influence their approach to apologies. This dynamic doesn't solely point to a power imbalance but rather highlights the complexity of gender roles in communication and conflict resolution."
#4
Steve Robert 1 year ago
I've learned that when being in a relationship, it's easier to apologize, even if you have no idea why you're apologizing.
#5
Bored Trash Panda 1 year ago (edited)
my abusive ex claimed to have split-personality disorder so it wasn't really him that was beating me and choking me till I almost passed out.
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Steve Robert 1 year ago
Let me hit you in the head and see if your memory comes back. I'll ever try twice if the first time doesn't work.
#6
Rosecat 1 year ago
My father found out that my now husband, then boyfriend, and I were sleeping in the same bed; in our own apartment that we were paying for with our own money. He was livid and said he didn't want to see either of us again, that we were dead to him. His "apology"? After days of no contact whatsoever, sending a text asking if my boyfriend and I wanted some of the food he cooked. Important context: my boyfriend and I were sharing a bed but weren't sleeping with each other, because we decided to wait untill marriage for that. Meanwhile: my father got my mother pregnant before marrying her, same as my brother and his wife, my second brother got two women pregnant and only married the second one over a year after the birth of their first kid, my sister got pregnant with her first kid before marriage while still living with our parents... Oh, and our apartment was a one bedroom.
Rafael 1 year ago
Guess I realized he is the one to blame for never teaching your family on proper contraceptive methods
Load More Replies... ZestyBison 1 year ago
Bingo, but also for non dealbreakers a decent way to interact after mild conflict. Conflict which we collectively should be trying to avoid, right.
Sri narrated, "Childhood socialization significantly impacts how both boys and girls learn to navigate accountability. Boys may be socialized to prioritize toughness and self-reliance, which can lead to less encouragement to express remorse openly. Conversely, girls often receive more social reinforcement for nurturing behaviors, including apologizing."
When speaking about the impacts on men who consistently avoid apologizing or taking accountability, Sri noted that it can lead to unresolved conflicts, eroded trust, and strained relationships. He also stressed that avoiding accountability can hinder personal growth and self-reflection, leading to patterns of defensiveness.
#7
Space Invader 1 year ago (edited)
If you need to think that hard about what to say, it can't be the truth
María Hermida 1 year ago
This one really depends on the situation. Even if we know we were wrong, sometimes it's difficult to explain why we acted the way we did.
#8
Lauren Burwash 1 year ago
I HATE this one.. in my opinion, it's a catch-all to minimize any crappy behavior and a back-handed way to insinuate that the other person "expects" perfection and is obviously the unreasonable one.
María Hermida 1 year ago
Well, some people do expect perfection and is obviously the unreasonable one.
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Insomniac 1 year ago
I had an ex who used that one. First boyfriend. Abusive as all get out. I have bad taste in men.
Ruth Watry 1 year ago
I know that you aren't perfect - but would like to see you improve from 30% to 40%
#9
Dread Pirate Roberts 1 year ago
One of my former professors hated that saying and thought it was stupid. In his words, "Oh, really? I thought it is what it isn't!" 😆
Load More Replies...Sri also pointed out that men and women may perceive apologies differently and be influenced by societal norms. For some men, he added, apologizing can be seen as a sign of vulnerability, which might be interpreted as weakness in certain contexts.
According to Sri, this perception can be tied to traditional notions of masculinity, where pride and ego play significant roles. This does throw a light on why some men would rather deviate from the conflict rather than apologize.
#10
#11
Amanda Fondaumiere 1 year ago
Sure sure right after you tell her to calm down. Just make sure you have extra clothes and cash packed and a fire suit for when she goes nuclear. ;)
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meow point1 1 year ago
Maybe he thinks the reason she was peeved was because she was hangry, but I agree it's not an apology.
Load More Replies... María Hermida 1 year ago
I do get cantankerous when I'm very hungry or when I need a cup of coffee
#12
Deborah B 1 year ago
This could be an expression of sympathy. It becomes a problematic non-apology if he did something to cause the sadness.
Yellow dot 1 year ago (edited)
"I'm sorry you're sad about what I did" instead of "I'm sorry for what I did."
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Wondering Alice 1 year ago
In some contexts, this is the right thing to say. If something has made me really sad, I want my husband to understand the difference between I need solutions or I need him comfort me, or I just need him to listen and be sorry I am sad. Some times I need to tell him which I need, but that goes both ways with us.
Throughout the interview, Sri stressed how important it is to recognize that many men value accountability and see the importance of apologies in maintaining healthy relationships. He also explained that many families and cultures encourage all children to value honesty and accountability equally.
"Avoiding apologies is not an inherent trait of all men; many actively engage in accountability and see positive outcomes in their relationships. Overall, the effects depend significantly on individual choices and the dynamics of specific relationships," he concluded.
#13
Red PANda (she/they/he/ze) 1 year ago
Just because you had good intentions doesn’t diminish how much it hurt. This might be more acceptable if it was followed by an “I’m sorry.”
Ace 1 year ago
Yeah, the lyrics to John Lennon's "Jealous Guy" always made me a bit uncomfortable...
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#15
Our expert definitely gave us something to think about when it comes to apologizing, whether you are a man or a woman. Well, that's it from our end - now we hand over the platform to you as we want to hear your thoughts about the matter.
As you scroll down and enjoy the rest of the list, don't hesitate to jot down your personal experiences in the comments about receiving apologies from men. We would be delighted to hear from you!
#16
#18
Robert Maybeth 1 year ago
Just break up, golly. When it reaches rock bottom like this it'll never f@ckin work so I'd just quit.
Load More Replies... Dread Pirate Roberts 1 year ago
LOL I wouldn't have very high expectations for a guy who calls himself Jimmy Shitballs 😂
#19
StarCrossedFriday 1 year ago
It’s far too long already, just cut out the first 5 words.
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Steve Robert 1 year ago
I once had to use that exact line when my then girlfriend met my ex girlfriend.
#21
Depressed Lesbian(she/they/he) 1 year ago (edited)
My dad when I confronted him after he called me evil in his anger at 14:
#22
Robert Maybeth 1 year ago
the title should be "Couples who need to break up right now, for 100 points Alex."
Load More Replies... Insomniac 1 year ago
Depending on the sort of person, this one kinda makes sense. I've found myself saying that to my sister. But she's constantly mad at me and will never tell me why. When I find out, it's reasons like I snapped at her dog when the little brat was chewing on my leg. I accidentally let the dog out once (she snuck by me), and I had to go downstairs because Sis was too distressed to see me near her. She overreacts to everything and flips out about the most ridiculous things (even my therapist agrees she's off her rocker), and there's only so much of it I can manage.
Tommy DePaul 1 year ago
Go NC. Why do you continue to put yourself through this?
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#25
#28
Deborah B 1 year ago
He's not apologising "I know I did a bad thing, but I don't think you deserve an apology."
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#29
Jonas Fisher 1 year ago
How is it that both this one about talking on the phone, and the one about wanting to talk face-to-face are both on this list? Kind of sounds like a guy can't win no matter what.
Elladine DesIsles 1 year ago
They aren't necessarily opposite. I doubt someone is suggesting they move from in-person to phone conversation, more likely switching from text or email to phone. Either way, the person suggesting the switch (regardless of their gender) could be using it as a stall tactic. Ot, they could be trying to move the argument to a form of interaction where they feel they can be more in control.
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IamMe 1 year ago
Why is that bad? For serious conversations, talking on the phone, or face to face, are just better. Tone of voice, the way a word is said, facial expression and gestures. These things can completely change the meaning of words. Texting is too easily to misinterpret, especially when you're already mad at the person. I'm a woman, and in my experience even friendly texts seem to have a much higher percentage of going wrong, compared to talking. Sarcasm doesn't come through in text, apparently.
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What do you think ?
Rhiannon Jane 1 year ago
It'd be engraved on their tombstone as their last words
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freakingbee (she/they) 1 year ago
"i didn't do anything but okay" led to my breakup two days ago. he made me cry on my birthday.
Pandarosa 1 year ago
What a meanie, he didn't deserve you. And happy birthday xx
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Kraneia The Dancing Dryad 1 year ago
Related to the "have you eaten?", blaming the issue on something other than themselves, how about the "you must be on that time of the month you're grouchy" X-D b!tch, I was nicer then!! Also, has anyone else had a partner that apologizes by saying it's because they're "selfish"? if you know it's an issue, why haven't you worked on it?
Donkey boi 1 year ago
Ridiculously vague 'Apologise like a man' request, fishing for men bashing responses. Well, actually, men, just like women apologise in many different ways depending on the circumstances and seriousness of the reason for the apology. This is on the same level as the one that asked, 'how does a woman admit she's wrong?' and was followed by a thousand 'We'll let you know, if it ever happens.' type comments. Can we just stop bashing each other and start getting to know, and understanding each other.
XenoMurph 1 year ago
Men, women, boomer, millenial, find a demographic and ridicule those people for clicks, despite every other demographic doing exactly the same thing
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Kerry Fletcher 1 year ago
I don't like any of these. Sometime you really are being honest and didn't want to offend/hurt but it happens. You say sorry I didn't mean to hurt you. That is a legit apology.
Gavin Johnson 1 year ago
So men are just like women then? It’s a character thing IMHO, not a sex thing, we all fail at some point or other, we all do things that may hurt others, but it’s the ones who realise their mistakes, apologise truthfully and ensure they don’t do it again and who communicate effectively that have the depth of character and ability to read those they’ve hurt. Leave your ego behind and own your errors. PS there’s some stuff that an apology won’t work on, if you act like a idiot then you get what you deserve.
MoMcB 1 year ago
Yep, could just be non apologies from exes, regardless of gender
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Elvira394 1 year ago
My husband’s apology when he's really hurt my feelings: *Blinks*….points at his crotch…”Yes?”.
Cash Back 1 year ago
Be nice if we had some actual context and background of what they did wrong for each response. Saying sorry for a genuine mishap or mistake is fine but expecting it when the guy literally did nothing wrong or you just interpreted it that way through your own standards and expect him to know creates confused responses and perplexed answers because the guy just wants the issue to end without having to admit fault if there genuinely is no reason too, because it's a principle not because he doesn't care or can't take 'accountability' for something. You think guys never have to apologise for messing up in other contexts of life and the sheer notion of realisation of wrong doing is alien to us? Come on don't insult our lived experiences, and show the whole exchange that led up to this.
Insomniac 1 year ago
"I'm sorry you were hurt." That one is insulting. It should be "I'm sorry I hurt you."
Cash Back 1 year ago
funny how when switched around it's 'who hurt you' like us responding to being hurt is a bad thing and should be dismissed in seconds but when it's you getting hurt it's the whole world coming to a standstill for hours or days until a resolution!
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John Smith 1 year ago
I’m really frustrated with this post. It undermines manhood by claiming that men don’t apologize or take responsibility for their actions, only making excuses and blaming their wives. That’s simply not true. Men do apologize and can be accountable for their mistakes. And yes there are those that encapsulate this very post but i don't believe that's a majority.
Svenne O'Lotta 8 months ago
It undermines manhood, are you being serious right now? 😆 This is a user created list of non-excuses from men. As in these people have actually experienced men being exactly like that. And you wanna take that as a personal attack on your manhood, really? How weak are you that you can't let people write about their personal experiences without feeling emasculated? Why do you wanna be persecuted so bad? Work on yourself, dude.
Load More Replies... Rhiannon Jane 1 year ago
It'd be engraved on their tombstone as their last words
Load More Replies... freakingbee (she/they) 1 year ago
"i didn't do anything but okay" led to my breakup two days ago. he made me cry on my birthday.
Pandarosa 1 year ago
What a meanie, he didn't deserve you. And happy birthday xx
Load More Replies... Kraneia The Dancing Dryad 1 year ago
Related to the "have you eaten?", blaming the issue on something other than themselves, how about the "you must be on that time of the month you're grouchy" X-D b!tch, I was nicer then!! Also, has anyone else had a partner that apologizes by saying it's because they're "selfish"? if you know it's an issue, why haven't you worked on it?
Donkey boi 1 year ago
Ridiculously vague 'Apologise like a man' request, fishing for men bashing responses. Well, actually, men, just like women apologise in many different ways depending on the circumstances and seriousness of the reason for the apology. This is on the same level as the one that asked, 'how does a woman admit she's wrong?' and was followed by a thousand 'We'll let you know, if it ever happens.' type comments. Can we just stop bashing each other and start getting to know, and understanding each other.
XenoMurph 1 year ago
Men, women, boomer, millenial, find a demographic and ridicule those people for clicks, despite every other demographic doing exactly the same thing
Load More Replies... Kerry Fletcher 1 year ago
I don't like any of these. Sometime you really are being honest and didn't want to offend/hurt but it happens. You say sorry I didn't mean to hurt you. That is a legit apology.
Gavin Johnson 1 year ago
So men are just like women then? It’s a character thing IMHO, not a sex thing, we all fail at some point or other, we all do things that may hurt others, but it’s the ones who realise their mistakes, apologise truthfully and ensure they don’t do it again and who communicate effectively that have the depth of character and ability to read those they’ve hurt. Leave your ego behind and own your errors. PS there’s some stuff that an apology won’t work on, if you act like a idiot then you get what you deserve.
MoMcB 1 year ago
Yep, could just be non apologies from exes, regardless of gender
Load More Replies... Elvira394 1 year ago
My husband’s apology when he's really hurt my feelings: *Blinks*….points at his crotch…”Yes?”.
Cash Back 1 year ago
Be nice if we had some actual context and background of what they did wrong for each response. Saying sorry for a genuine mishap or mistake is fine but expecting it when the guy literally did nothing wrong or you just interpreted it that way through your own standards and expect him to know creates confused responses and perplexed answers because the guy just wants the issue to end without having to admit fault if there genuinely is no reason too, because it's a principle not because he doesn't care or can't take 'accountability' for something. You think guys never have to apologise for messing up in other contexts of life and the sheer notion of realisation of wrong doing is alien to us? Come on don't insult our lived experiences, and show the whole exchange that led up to this.
Insomniac 1 year ago
"I'm sorry you were hurt." That one is insulting. It should be "I'm sorry I hurt you."
Cash Back 1 year ago
funny how when switched around it's 'who hurt you' like us responding to being hurt is a bad thing and should be dismissed in seconds but when it's you getting hurt it's the whole world coming to a standstill for hours or days until a resolution!
Load More Replies... John Smith 1 year ago
I’m really frustrated with this post. It undermines manhood by claiming that men don’t apologize or take responsibility for their actions, only making excuses and blaming their wives. That’s simply not true. Men do apologize and can be accountable for their mistakes. And yes there are those that encapsulate this very post but i don't believe that's a majority.
Svenne O'Lotta 8 months ago
It undermines manhood, are you being serious right now? 😆 This is a user created list of non-excuses from men. As in these people have actually experienced men being exactly like that. And you wanna take that as a personal attack on your manhood, really? How weak are you that you can't let people write about their personal experiences without feeling emasculated? Why do you wanna be persecuted so bad? Work on yourself, dude.
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