The Apology Epidemic

Many English learners sprinkle "sorry" into every sentence like it costs nothing. "Sorry, can I ask a question?" "Sorry, I didn't catch that." "Sorry to bother you." Each unnecessary apology chips away at your credibility.

The habit usually comes from translating politeness patterns from your native language. But English politeness works differently. Saying "sorry" ten times before lunch doesn't make you polite — it makes you sound like you're asking permission to exist.