Wikipedia:Apology
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This essay contains the advice or opinions of one or more Wikipedia contributors. Essays may represent widespread norms or minority viewpoints. Consider these views with discretion. |
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It is easier to demand an apology than to deliver one. We all make mistakes. So take care which apologies you demand, and how often, and what you reject as not good enough. Your turn will come.
Courtesy isn't a standard to expect of others; it's the standard you abide by yourself.
Sometimes it is better to wait for an apology, instead of demanding one. Equally, if you are in the wrong it is better to offer an apology before one is demanded.
[edit] Non-apology
Non-apologies are generally considered bad, and though some expression of regret can help defuse a situation, be careful not to compound the problem further, or cause offense, an example of which would be "I'm sorry you're upset, but if you're too stupid to understand, there's not much I can do!"
Even less blatant forms like "I'm sorry that upset you" are often regarded as clear-cut non-apologies, and reason to take further offense.
