20 Other Ways to Say “I Regret to Inform You”

Breaking bad news can be challenging and finding the right words is crucial to convey the message with sensitivity.

“I regret to inform you” is a commonly used phrase to preface unpleasant information, but there are numerous alternatives that might fit the situation better.

Here are 20 other ways to deliver unwelcome news, each explained to guide appropriate usage.

Formally Expressing Bad News

1. It is with a heavy heart that I must tell you…

• Example: “It is with a heavy heart that I must tell you that we cannot approve your application.”
• Explanation: This phrase implies that the bearer of bad news is emotionally affected and delivers the message with deep sorrow.

2. We are sorry to have to convey…

• Example: “We are sorry to have to convey that the event you were looking forward to has been canceled.”
• Explanation: An expression that carries a sense of apology while stating the unfortunate news.

3. Unfortunately, it falls upon me to report that…

• Example: “Unfortunately, it falls upon me to report that our partnership with X company will not proceed.”
• Explanation: Conveys a professional distance and highlights the formality of the situation while imparting bad news.

When Being Considerate

4. I’m afraid I’ve got some disappointing news…

• Example: “I’m afraid I’ve got some disappointing news about your job application.”
• Explanation: This lead-in softens the blow by preparing the recipient for the fact that the news is not positive.

5. It saddens me to share with you…

• Example: “It saddens me to share with you that our team didn’t make it into the finals.”
• Explanation: A personal expression of empathy along with the delivery of unfavorable news.

6. I wish I had better news, but…

• Example: “I wish I had better news, but your preferred product has been discontinued.”
• Explanation: Shows a preference for delivering positive news and acknowledges the letdown the recipient may experience.

Short and Direct

7. I’ve got to tell you that…

• Example: “I’ve got to tell you that we’re going to miss our deadline.”
• Explanation: A blunt and concise announcement of bad news without additional cushioning.

8. Regrettably, I have to say…

• Example: “Regrettably, I have to say that our agreement will not be renewed.”
• Explanation: Formal and direct, this alternative clearly articulates regret in delivering the message.

9. It’s my unfortunate duty to let you know…

• Example: “It’s my unfortunate duty to let you know that the trip has been called off.”
• Explanation: Implies a sense of responsibility and duty while relaying bad news.

Sensitive and Caring

10. With sympathy, I inform you…

• Example: “With sympathy, I inform you of the passing of a dear colleague.”
• Explanation: When delivering extremely sensitive news such as condolences, this phrase conveys compassion.

11. We deeply regret to announce…

• Example: “We deeply regret to announce that there have been layoffs in several departments.”
• Explanation: Indicates the message is hard to deliver and that the informer shares in the disappointment of the news.

12. I have the sad task of informing you that…

• Example: “I have the sad task of informing you that your piece didn’t make it to publication this time.”
• Explanation: Suggests that delivering this news is a difficult and unwelcome responsibility.

Expressing Empathy

13. I understand this message may come as a disappointment, but…

• Example: “I understand this message may come as a disappointment, but we have to postpone our plans.”
• Explanation: It acknowledges the potential impact of the bad news on the recipient’s feelings.

14. We share in your frustration in having to say…

• Example: “We share in your frustration in having to say that bonuses will not be issued this year.”
• Explanation: Indicates solidarity with the recipient’s possible response to the update.

15. It pains me to say this, but…

• Example: “It pains me to say this, but your application has been declined.”
• Explanation: Illustrates that the person delivering the message is also troubled by this turn of events.

Being Apologetic

16. We must offer our apologies as we inform you…

• Example: “We must offer our apologies as we inform you of the unexpected outage on our platform.”
• Explanation: Shows regret and seeks understanding while delivering a formal notice.

17. Please accept our sincerest apologies as we relay…

• Example: “Please accept our sincerest apologies as we relay that your service request cannot be prioritized.”
• Explanation: A respectful and apologetic preamble to delivering news that may cause inconvenience.

18. We’re sorry to report…

• Example: “We’re sorry to report that the delivery times have been extended.”
• Explanation: A straightforward and concise way to express regret about having to share bad news.

With Tact and Professionalism

19. After careful consideration, we must communicate that…

• Example: “After careful consideration, we must communicate that your proposal was not selected.”
• Explanation: Suggests that the decision was not made lightly, lending a professional tone to the delivery.

20. In line with company policy, we are obligated to inform you…

• Example: “In line with company policy, we are obligated to inform you of the breach in terms of service.”
• Explanation: Conveys that the announcement is part of formal or procedural requirements, providing context for the news.

Communicating negative updates necessitates a blend of professionalism, empathy, and transparency.

By choosing an appropriate phrase from the alternatives provided, you can balance showing concern and keeping the required formality.

This careful approach can make a difficult message slightly easier to receive.