How do you apologize professionally in an email?

Say what went wrong in one sentence, take responsibility, explain the fix, and thank the reader for their patience. Skip the long backstory.

Is "apologies for the inconvenience" professional?

It is acceptable but sounds like a form letter. Naming the actual problem and what you did about it reads as more sincere.

Should I apologize by email or in person?

For a serious mistake with your boss or a client, call or speak in person first, then follow up by email with the facts and the fix. For small things, email is fine.

How to write an apology email at work

A professional apology email names the mistake in one line, takes responsibility without excuses, says what you have done or will do to fix it, and stops there. Most good apology emails are under 120 words. Below are examples for customers, clients, your boss and coworkers, and better alternatives to "apologies for the inconvenience".

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To a customer

Hi [Name], I'm sorry your order arrived late. That isn't the experience we want for you. I've refunded the shipping cost, and your next delivery will go out by express at no charge. Thank you for your patience, [Name]
Hi [Name], Thank you for letting us know about [problem]. You're right, and I'm sorry. We've fixed the issue on our side, and [what you did for them]. If anything else isn't working, reply here and I'll handle it personally. Best, [Name]

To a client, for a missed deadline

Hi [Name], I owe you an apology: we missed the [date] deadline for [deliverable]. That's on us. The finished work will be with you by [new date], and I've added a check to our process so it doesn't happen again. I appreciate your patience, [Name]

To your boss, for a mistake

Hi [Name], I made a mistake in [report or task]: [what was wrong]. I've corrected it and sent the updated version to [who]. Going forward, I'll [specific change] before anything goes out. Sorry for the extra work this caused. [Name]

To a coworker

Hi [Name], I'm sorry about how I came across in the meeting this morning. I was frustrated with the deadline, not with you, and I shouldn't have taken it out on you. Thanks for your patience with me.

For a late reply

Hi [Name], sorry for the slow reply. Here's the answer to your question: [answer].
Thanks for your patience on this. To your question about [topic]: [answer].

Better ways to say "apologies for the inconvenience"

Instead of	Try
Apologies for the inconvenience.	I'm sorry for the trouble this caused.
We apologize for any inconvenience.	I'm sorry this held you up. Here's what we've done about it.
Sorry for the delay.	Thank you for your patience.
Sorry if this caused confusion.	To clear up any confusion: [the correct information].
Sorry for bothering you.	Thanks for taking a look at this.

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Frequently asked questions

How do you apologize professionally in an email?: Say what went wrong in one sentence, take responsibility, explain the fix, and thank the reader for their patience. Skip the long backstory.
Is "apologies for the inconvenience" professional?: It is acceptable but sounds like a form letter. Naming the actual problem and what you did about it reads as more sincere.
Should I apologize by email or in person?: For a serious mistake with your boss or a client, call or speak in person first, then follow up by email with the facts and the fix. For small things, email is fine.