Communication Ages 18 to 25

The joke that hurt: a lesson for ages 18 to 25

A real apology names what you did, says sorry without "but", and shows you understand how it felt. Then do better next time.

Practice this lesson Watch the video

The situation

At a group dinner, you made a joke about your friend's new job.

Later he texts that it really embarrassed him.

What would you do?

  • Apologize clearly without making excuses.
  • Say he is too sensitive and it was just a joke.
See the recommended choice and why

Recommended choice

Apologize clearly without making excuses.

A real apology names what you did, says sorry without "but", and shows you understand how it felt. Then do better next time.

Your next step

Write a short apology that names what you did.

Words you can use

“I am sorry. That joke was not okay, and I will not do it again.”

Sources

Lessons draw on guidance from these organizations. They link to it and do not reproduce it.

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