I’m sorry to say Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Expressing Regret Conveys personal regret when announcing unwanted news, showing empathy. I'm sorry to say, your application was not selected. Pro Tip 2/3Softening Impact Used to soften the blow before giving bad news, making it less harsh. I'm sorry to say that we've had to cancel the event. Pro Tip 3/3Polite Introduction A polite way to start a sentence when the information may disappoint the listener. I'm sorry to say but your favorite show has been discontinued.