The words "apologize" and "regret" are often confused, especially for teenage English learners. While both words relate to feeling bad about something, they have different meanings and uses. "Apologize" means to express sorrow or regret for something you did wrong or said, while "regret" focuses on a feeling of sadness about something that happened or something you did in the past. You apologize for something; you regret something. Here are some examples to help you understand the difference better:

Apologize:

English Sentence: "I apologize for being late." English Translation: "Me disculpo por llegar tarde."

English Sentence: "He apologized for hurting her feelings." English Translation: "Él se disculpó por herir sus sentimientos."

English Sentence: "Please apologize to your mom." English Translation: "Por favor, discúlpate con tu mamá."

Regret:

English Sentence: "I regret not studying harder for the test." English Translation: "Lamento no haber estudiado más para el examen."

English Sentence: "She regrets saying those hurtful words." English Translation: "Ella lamenta haber dicho esas palabras hirientes."

English Sentence: "We regret to inform you that the concert is cancelled." English Translation: "Lamentamos informarles que el concierto está cancelado."

In short, use "apologize" when you want to take responsibility and express remorse for something you did wrong. Use "regret" when you feel sadness or disappointment about a past action or situation.

Happy learning!