Your bag didn't arrive, or the drill you borrowed broke in your hands. You need to explain what happened, and be honest about how much of it was your fault.
Way 1 · best default
Starts the story in order, step by step, without blaming anyone yet.
Examples
What happened was, I was halfway through a hole and it just stopped.
So what happened was, my first flight landed late and I missed the connection.
In a conversation
A: So how did the drill break?
B: What happened was, it started smelling of burning and then it wouldn't turn on.
Way 2 · found out later
For a fact you only learned afterwards, often something that wasn't your fault.
Examples
It turns out my bag never left Frankfurt.
It turns out the drill's had the same problem before.
In a conversation
A: Did they find your suitcase?
B: Sort of. It turns out it went to Madrid instead.
Way 3 · facts, no guessing
Honest when you don't know the cause. You give the facts and let them decide.
Examples
I'm not sure what happened, but my suitcase didn't come through on the belt.
I'm not sure what happened, but it won't start any more.
Way 4 · probably my fault
You suspect it was you but aren't certain. Honest, and softer than saying it was definitely you.
Examples
Sorry, I think I might have taken your keys by mistake.
I think I might have left the charger at the hotel.
Way 5 · bad news, owned
Warns them bad news is coming, and says clearly that you did it.
Examples
I'm afraid I've scratched your car door. I'm so sorry.
I'm afraid I've lost one of the bits from your screwdriver set.
In a conversation
A: Hiya. You all right?
B: Yeah. I'm afraid I've lost one of the bits from your screwdriver set. I'll get you a new one.
Common mistake
Not: I am sorry for breaking your drill. I will compensate you.
Say: I'm afraid I've had a problem with your drill. Let's work out what to do.
"Compensate" sounds like a lawyer. With a neighbour, use everyday words and offer to sort it out together.
Way 6 · fully owned
No excuses: you caused it, and you say so. People usually soften when they hear it.
Examples
Honestly, it's my fault. I forgot to send the file.
It's my fault we missed the train, not yours.
Common mistake
Not: Sorry, I'm wrong. I broke it.
Say: Sorry, it's my fault. I broke it.
"I'm wrong" is about facts or opinions. When you caused a problem, say "it's my fault".
Read the moment, then choose the way that fits it best.
Pick one and practise it in a real conversation. Save the ones you want to remember.
