Phrase · Social life & etiquette

the apology loop

noun phrase /thuh-uh-pol-uh-jee-loop/

Definition

A peculiarly British standoff where two innocent parties repeatedly ask for forgiveness until one walks away.

In use

“We got stuck in the apology loop by the biscuit aisle for a solid minute.”

Filed under

british life politeness snacks supermarkets
Published 3 August 2026

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The details

About this phrase

The language, classification and history attached to this Definr entry.

Language

Language form
noun phrase
Pronunciation
/thuh-uh-pol-uh-jee-loop/

Classification

Life domain
People & society

History

Published
Last updated

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