A Non-apology Apology

A non-apology apology is a statement in the form of an apology that does not express remorse. It is common in both politics and public relations.

Saying "I'm sorry you feel that way" to someone who has been offended or hurt by a statement is a non-apology apology. It does not admit there was anything wrong with the remarks made, and may imply the person took offence for hypersensitive or irrational reasons.

Harriet Lerner writes that a good apology has six important elements.