We’ve all had moments where we felt like we took up someone’s time unnecessarily. Whether it’s a meeting that ran too long, an email that didn’t need a reply, or a project that changed direction midstream — it’s only human to want to apologize.
But saying “Sorry for wasting your time” can sometimes feel a bit harsh or even self-deprecating. Instead, let’s explore more thoughtful, professional, and empathetic alternatives that still acknowledge the other person’s time and efforts — without being too hard on yourself.
These 33 phrases will help you express sincerity, care, and gratitude — and sometimes even add a little elegance or confidence to your message.
What Does “Sorry for Wasting Your Time” Mean?
Meaning: This phrase is often used when you feel you’ve taken up someone’s time without delivering value or a useful outcome.
Detailed Explanation: It usually reflects a genuine regret — not just for the time taken, but also for not being as efficient, productive, or helpful as you’d intended. While it’s honest, it can sound overly self-critical or imply that the entire interaction was pointless, which may not be the case.
Scenario Example: After giving a presentation that didn’t go as planned, you say, “Sorry for wasting your time” to the attendees.
Best Use: When you truly feel your actions or message lacked relevance or utility.
Not Ideal: When the meeting or conversation still had value — even if it didn’t go perfectly. There are softer, more appreciative ways to phrase this.
Additional Tip: Instead of focusing on the “waste,” shift your language toward acknowledging their time and expressing appreciation for their patience.
1. Thank you for your time — I truly appreciate it.
Meaning: Gratitude-focused, not regret-focused.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase turns attention away from the negative and centers on the positive — appreciation. It’s especially useful when you’re unsure whether your message was as impactful as you’d hoped.
Scenario Example: You wrap up a meeting that ran long and say, “Thanks for your time — I truly appreciate it.”
Best Use: When you’re unsure of the value delivered but still want to end on a high note.
Not Ideal: If the person was genuinely frustrated or upset — it might come across as dismissive without context.
Additional Tip: Follow up with a quick sentence on what you learned or how you’ll improve.
2. I know your time is valuable — thank you for sharing it with me.
Meaning: Highlights respect for their time.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase validates the worth of their time while adding a personal touch of gratitude.
Scenario Example: After a long discovery call, you close by saying, “I know your time is valuable — thank you for sharing it with me.”
Best Use: In professional or networking settings.
Not Ideal: When there was a clear error or mismanagement of time — it might not acknowledge that clearly.
Additional Tip: Pair this with a note on next steps or how you’ll make future interactions smoother.
3. I appreciate your patience.
Meaning: Acknowledges their understanding.
Detailed Explanation: Especially useful when a task took longer than expected, this phrase conveys gratitude without focusing on the delay.
Scenario Example: If a colleague waited while you sorted out a tech issue, you say, “Thanks, I appreciate your patience.”
Best Use: When delays or confusion caused a time inconvenience.
Not Ideal: If the situation lacked any redeeming value — more clarity may be needed.
Additional Tip: Add a sentence to clarify what caused the delay and how you’ll prevent it next time.
4. I recognize this took longer than expected — thank you for sticking with me.
Meaning: A graceful way to acknowledge time without apologizing outright.
Detailed Explanation: You’re showing self-awareness while still expressing gratitude, which feels more collaborative and professional.
Scenario Example: After a lengthy review session, you say, “This took longer than expected — thanks for sticking with me.”
Best Use: When you’re hosting or presenting.
Not Ideal: If the content was irrelevant or off-track.
Additional Tip: Consider briefly summarizing the value or key takeaways to reaffirm the time was worth it.
5. I truly value the time you’ve invested.
Meaning: Shows appreciation for the effort behind the time.
Detailed Explanation: Sometimes time isn’t just time — it’s energy, attention, and effort. This phrase honors all of that.
Scenario Example: In a follow-up email after a meeting: “I truly value the time you’ve invested in this conversation.”
Best Use: After a decision-making or strategy session.
Not Ideal: When something completely fell flat — this could feel like ignoring the elephant in the room.
Additional Tip: If possible, mention what you’ll do with the time they invested — to show it wasn’t in vain.
6. I realize I could’ve been more concise — I’ll keep it tighter next time.
Meaning: Self-aware and solution-oriented.
Detailed Explanation: This is a growth-oriented way to acknowledge you took up more time than necessary while showing you’ve already learned from the experience.
Scenario Example: In a team meeting, you reflect: “I realize I could’ve been more concise — I’ll keep it tighter next time.”
Best Use: Internal meetings or collaborative settings.
Not Ideal: Formal or high-stakes professional conversations — it’s a bit casual.
Additional Tip: Use this only if you genuinely feel the session went long unnecessarily.
7. I hope this didn’t take more time than you anticipated.
Meaning: A soft, considerate check-in on their time expectations.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase gently addresses the time spent without assuming guilt. It’s empathetic while leaving space for their response.
Scenario Example: After an unexpectedly long demo call, you say, “I hope this didn’t take more time than you anticipated.”
Best Use: Casual but courteous follow-ups.
Not Ideal: When the meeting clearly ran overtime with negative consequences — it may seem like brushing over the issue.
Additional Tip: If it did take too long, immediately acknowledge it and offer a way to make up for it (e.g., summary notes).
8. Thanks for bearing with me.
Meaning: Acknowledge patience with friendliness.
Detailed Explanation: This is a more relaxed way to say “thanks for your time,” especially after a hiccup or delay.
Scenario Example: You fumble a presentation, then say, “Thanks for bearing with me today.”
Best Use: Informal workplace or familiar clients.
Not Ideal: High-level executive settings or formal meetings.
Additional Tip: Add a quick line of reassurance or takeaway to keep things positive.
9. I understand if this wasn’t the best use of your time.
Meaning: Offers validation for how they may be feeling.
Detailed Explanation: Sometimes, people need to hear that you recognize their frustration or disappointment, especially if something didn’t go to plan.
Scenario Example: A vendor presentation falls flat, and you say, “I understand if this wasn’t the best use of your time.”
Best Use: When damage control is needed.
Not Ideal: As a go-to phrase — it can sound defeatist if overused.
Additional Tip: Always follow with how you plan to make it right.
10. I’ll be more mindful of time moving forward.
Meaning: Commits to improvement.
Detailed Explanation: Instead of focusing on what already happened, this shifts the focus toward better time management in the future.
Scenario Example: You exceeded the meeting time and say, “I’ll be more mindful of time next round.”
Best Use: Internal meetings, project check-ins.
Not Ideal: If someone expects a more sincere apology in the moment.
Additional Tip: Follow it with a specific action plan for next time (e.g., timed agenda points).
11. Let’s make sure your time gets the return it deserves.
Meaning: Focused on outcome and value.
Detailed Explanation: This positions you as someone who cares about ROI — respectful and proactive.
Scenario Example: “I want to make sure your time gets the return it deserves — let’s focus on next steps that matter most.”
Best Use: Client or stakeholder conversations.
Not Ideal: Early-stage chats where value hasn’t yet been defined.
Additional Tip: Use this as a bridge to value delivery — pivot the conversation toward solutions.
12. I want to make the most of the time you’ve given me.
Meaning: Prioritizes intention and value.
Detailed Explanation: It shows humility and appreciation, while keeping the conversation focused on getting to the point.
Scenario Example: “Thanks for joining me today — I want to make the most of the time you’ve given me.”
Best Use: Opening or mid-way through meetings where pacing is important.
Not Ideal: Closing conversations — better as an opener.
Additional Tip: Be sure to actually follow through on this intent.
13. I know this might’ve felt repetitive — thanks for hanging in there.
Meaning: Honest and empathetic.
Detailed Explanation: If you sense you’ve been repetitive or unclear, this shows you’re tuned in and appreciate their patience.
Scenario Example: After re-explaining something, you say, “I know this might’ve felt repetitive — thanks for hanging in there.”
Best Use: Complex explanations or training.
Not Ideal: When talking to people who expect high efficiency (e.g., execs).
Additional Tip: Close with a summary to bring it full circle.
14. Let me know how I can make this worth your time.
Meaning: Asks for guidance with humility.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase puts the ball in their court, inviting feedback and engagement rather than just apologizing.
Scenario Example: After a client session: “Let me know how I can make this more worth your time moving forward.”
Best Use: Client relations, partnerships.
Not Ideal: When you already know how you missed the mark.
Additional Tip: Be proactive in your follow-up after asking this.
15. I realize we went off track — I’ll keep us focused next time.
Meaning: Admits the issue and offers a fix.
Detailed Explanation: Sometimes conversations veer. This keeps accountability positive and shows leadership.
Scenario Example: “We got sidetracked today — I’ll keep us focused next time.”
Best Use: Meetings, team discussions.
Not Ideal: When the tangents were necessary or collaborative.
Additional Tip: Don’t over-apologize for natural conversations — only use if it disrupted purpose.
16. Thanks for allowing me the space to walk through that.
Meaning: Grateful and professional.
Detailed Explanation: This acknowledges they gave you time — and does so without implying it was wasted.
Scenario Example: You give a long explanation and say, “Thanks for allowing me the space to walk through that.”
Best Use: Presentations, deep dives, brainstorming sessions.
Not Ideal: When the content wasn’t helpful — be clearer then.
Additional Tip: Add a recap to clarify your main point.
17. I appreciate your flexibility.
Meaning: Thanks for being adaptable.
Detailed Explanation: It’s a gentle, appreciative phrase when things didn’t go quite as planned.
Scenario Example: After a last-minute time change: “Thanks so much for your flexibility.”
Best Use: Reschedules, delays.
Not Ideal: When something major was missed — it may feel too soft.
Additional Tip: Acknowledge the change and reassure it won’t happen again (if applicable).
18. I realize this could have been better streamlined.
Meaning: Professional self-awareness.
Detailed Explanation: This shows you’re reflecting and learning, without being dramatic.
Scenario Example: After a jumbled presentation: “I realize this could have been better streamlined — I’ll refine the format.”
Best Use: Honest post-meeting reflection.
Not Ideal: If others were responsible — don’t take full blame unnecessarily.
Additional Tip: Pair it with a concrete improvement plan.
19. I’m grateful you gave this your attention.
Meaning: Centers appreciation.
Detailed Explanation: Instead of focusing on time, this values their mental presence — a respectful way to show gratitude.
Scenario Example: “Thanks for giving this your attention today.”
Best Use: Conversations with thought partners or creative collaborators.
Not Ideal: If the message lacked direction or clarity.
Additional Tip: You can follow this with “…and I’d love to hear your thoughts.”
20. Thank you for taking the time to explore this with me.
Meaning: Expresses partnership and mutual effort.
Detailed Explanation: You’re highlighting shared time investment, not just a one-sided ask.
Scenario Example: “Thanks for taking the time to explore this with me today.”
Best Use: Strategic discussions or problem-solving.
Not Ideal: When it wasn’t collaborative or meaningful.
Additional Tip: Reinforce mutual goals or decisions at the end.
21. I know your time is valuable, and I appreciate you spending it here.
Meaning: Acknowledges value without implying it was wasted.
Detailed Explanation: This is a respectful, heartfelt way to show you don’t take their time for granted.
Scenario Example: At the end of a long Zoom meeting: “I know your time is valuable, and I appreciate you spending it here.”
Best Use: Client calls, stakeholder meetings, networking.
Not Ideal: Super casual chats — might sound too formal.
Additional Tip: Try pairing it with a meaningful takeaway or deliverable.
22. I truly appreciate your patience.
Meaning: A graceful nod to any delays or confusion.
Detailed Explanation: This is great for when things go wrong — delays, rescheduling, technical issues — and you want to acknowledge their calmness.
Scenario Example: Tech issues cause a late start: “I truly appreciate your patience while we got that sorted.”
Best Use: Glitchy meetings or unexpected issues.
Not Ideal: When you need to take more direct responsibility for a larger issue.
Additional Tip: Add what you’re doing to prevent it from happening again.
23. Thanks for sticking with me.
Meaning: Friendly, down-to-earth appreciation.
Detailed Explanation: This is perfect when you want to sound approachable and grateful, especially during longer or more complex interactions.
Scenario Example: After a long onboarding: “Thanks for sticking with me through all the details.”
Best Use: Informal chats or familiar team settings.
Not Ideal: High-stakes or more formal business settings.
Additional Tip: Throw in a light comment or quick summary to wrap things on a high note.
24. I’ll keep this more concise in the future.
Meaning: Acknowledges the issue and promises improvement.
Detailed Explanation: This works especially well when you’ve realized something went too long or off-topic — it’s honest, professional, and forward-thinking.
Scenario Example: After an over-detailed proposal: “I’ll keep this more concise in the future.”
Best Use: Internal reviews, feedback sessions.
Not Ideal: If brevity would have sacrificed necessary depth.
Additional Tip: Share how you’ll structure it next time (e.g., summaries first).
25. I’m here to make this easier, not harder — let me adjust.
Meaning: Expresses care and adaptability.
Detailed Explanation: It acknowledges something may have been frustrating, but turns the focus to being solution-oriented and helpful.
Scenario Example: A client’s confused by a process: “I’m here to make this easier — let me adjust how we approach this.”
Best Use: Customer service or user support.
Not Ideal: When you’re not in a position to make adjustments.
Additional Tip: Ask a clarifying question after saying it to ensure alignment.
26. Thanks for investing your time today.
Meaning: Treats their time as a contribution.
Detailed Explanation: This frames time as an investment — which builds trust and recognizes the value of attention and presence.
Scenario Example: “Thanks for investing your time in this meeting — I hope it was helpful.”
Best Use: Partner/client check-ins.
Not Ideal: If the meeting had no clear objective.
Additional Tip: Reinforce the “return” by summarizing value at the end.
27. I recognize this might have felt like a detour — thank you for your openness.
Meaning: Empathizes with unexpected tangents or topics.
Detailed Explanation: If you sidestepped or shifted gears, this shows you’re grateful they followed along.
Scenario Example: During a brainstorm that shifts direction: “This might’ve felt like a detour — thank you for your openness.”
Best Use: Workshops, creative sessions.
Not Ideal: Quick meetings where everyone expects a tight agenda.
Additional Tip: Connect the “detour” back to the main goal.
28. That may not have been the clearest — I’ll rework it for next time.
Meaning: Takes ownership with a growth mindset.
Detailed Explanation: It shows you’re aware something didn’t land, and you care enough to fix it.
Scenario Example: After a confusing presentation: “That may not have been the clearest — I’ll rework it and follow up.”
Best Use: After giving or receiving feedback.
Not Ideal: If you’re unsure what needs improvement — ask first!
Additional Tip: Offer to send a follow-up or a visual summary.
29. Let me know if there’s a better time or way to connect next time.
Meaning: Respects their preferences.
Detailed Explanation: It opens the door to honest feedback while showing you’re considerate of their time and communication style.
Scenario Example: After an awkward or ill-timed call: “Let me know if there’s a better time or way to connect next time.”
Best Use: Busy professionals, cross-time-zone calls.
Not Ideal: If the situation was urgent or unavoidable.
Additional Tip: Always follow up on what they say!
30. I’m learning from this — thanks for your grace.
Meaning: Combines humility and gratitude.
Detailed Explanation: Sometimes things don’t go perfectly — this lets them know you’re reflecting and improving, and that you appreciate their understanding.
Scenario Example: After a rocky delivery: “I’m learning from this — thanks for your grace and support.”
Best Use: Internal teams, mentorship moments.
Not Ideal: Repeated issues — this can sound like an excuse if overused.
Additional Tip: Be specific next time about what you’ve learned.
31. I’ll take responsibility for the delay and ensure it’s more efficient moving forward.
Meaning: Direct and professional ownership.
Detailed Explanation: This is great for accountability when your part in the delay or issue is clear.
Scenario Example: “I’ll take responsibility for the delay and ensure things move faster moving forward.”
Best Use: Projects, client deliverables, late emails.
Not Ideal: If the delay was out of your control — clarify that first.
Additional Tip: Provide a timeline for next steps.
32. Thank you for making space for this conversation.
Meaning: Respects their attention and openness.
Detailed Explanation: Whether it’s a meeting, tough topic, or creative talk — this phrase frames their time as an emotional or mental investment.
Scenario Example: “Thank you for making space for this conversation — I know it was a lot.”
Best Use: Personal development, coaching, team talks.
Not Ideal: Super practical meetings.
Additional Tip: Let them know how their input helped shape the outcome.
33. I value the time and thought you brought to this.
Meaning: Honors their contribution fully.
Detailed Explanation: Rather than just apologizing, you’re reframing the exchange as meaningful, even if imperfect.
Scenario Example: “I value the time and thought you brought to this — thank you.”
Best Use: Strategic conversations, collaborations.
Not Ideal: If the meeting truly went off the rails — acknowledge that first.
Additional Tip: Use it to pivot toward next steps or further ideas.
What Does “Sorry for Wasting Your Time” Mean?
At its core, this phrase reflects a sense of regret for using someone’s time in a way that may not have been useful, productive, or appreciated. It’s often said when something didn’t go to plan — a delayed meeting, a technical issue, or a conversation that didn’t land.
While it’s important to acknowledge when things go wrong, the phrase can come across as overly self-critical or even awkward in professional settings. That’s why thoughtful alternatives that express care, accountability, and respect can be so much more effective.
Additional Tip to Say “Sorry for Wasting Your Time” Professionally
Instead of defaulting to an apology, reframe your message to highlight appreciation, intent, or a plan to do better. Whether you lean into gratitude, take ownership, or offer a clear next step, the key is to make the other person feel seen and respected.
A little emotional intelligence goes a long way in professional communication — and the best phrases leave room for warmth without sacrificing clarity or credibility.
FAQ
1: Why should I avoid saying “Sorry for wasting your time” in professional settings?
Answer: While it’s a well-meaning phrase, it can unintentionally make you sound overly apologetic or lacking in confidence. In many cases, it shifts focus to what went wrong instead of what you learned, appreciated, or plan to do differently. Using alternatives allows you to sound more accountable, appreciative, and growth-minded — which resonates better in most workplaces.
2: Is it ever okay to say “Sorry for wasting your time”?
Answer: Yes — when it’s sincere and brief, especially if you’ve truly taken up someone’s time with no productive outcome. But even then, it’s best to follow it with a constructive or appreciative message. For example: “Sorry for wasting your time — I’ll summarize this and follow up with next steps.”
3: What’s the best alternative for emails?
Answer: One of the most professional and email-friendly options is: “Thank you for your time and consideration.” It expresses appreciation and can be used after meetings, follow-ups, or proposals without sounding overly apologetic. You can also try: “I appreciate your time and patience.” — especially if there was a delay or rescheduling.
4: How can I sound genuine without sounding overly formal?
Answer: Blend appreciation with personality. Try:
- “Thanks for sticking with me — I’ll keep it tighter next time.”
- “I know that was a bit longer than expected — thanks for your patience!” These are warm, professional, and relatable without sounding robotic or stiff.
5: What if I’m not sure if I actually wasted their time?
Answer: Great question — when in doubt, focus on gratitude, not guilt. Instead of assuming their experience was negative, thank them for showing up or contributing. For instance: “Thanks for being part of the discussion — your insights are always valuable.” This leaves space for reflection without diminishing your message.
Conclusion
We’ve all had moments where things didn’t go as smoothly as planned — and it’s completely human to want to apologize. But instead of saying “Sorry for wasting your time,” try one of these more empowering, empathetic, and thoughtful alternatives.
Whether you’re leading a team, working with clients, or collaborating on creative ideas, the way you communicate matters. These phrases help you honor people’s time, take responsibility with grace, and move conversations forward with confidence and care.
