unapology
Standing one's ground
An unapology is a statement framed as an apology that doesn't actually express remorse or accept responsibility.
The classic form is "I'm sorry if anyone was offended"—which shifts blame to those who took offense rather than acknowledging wrongdoing.
Politicians and celebrities specialize in unapologies when forced to address controversies: His unapology only made people angrier.
Capacity to withstand force
- rebellionDefiance of established power
- refusalAct of declining
- confrontationDirect hostile encounter
- disobedienceRefusal to follow orders
insubordination · boldness · assertiveness · pushback · recalcitrance · noncompliance · challenge · provocation
Strong negative reaction
- criticismJudgment of faults
- outrageFierce moral indignation
- scandalDisgraceful public affair
- uproarNoisy public disturbance
condemnation · furor · fallout · repercussion · doubling down · viral moment · cancel culture · accountability
Valuing one's own worth
- dignityInnate personal worth
- empowermentGaining authority or confidence
- self-worthInternal sense of value
- confidenceSelf-assurance or trust
self-assurance · self-esteem · conviction · integrity · authenticity · self-acceptance · self-affirmation · validation
Attitude of casual disregard
- disregardWillful lack of attention
- unconcernAbsence of worry
- nonchalanceCalm, casual composure
- shrugShoulder gesture of uncertainty
detachment · apathy · callousness · insensitivity · coldness · aloofness · dispassion · unresponsiveness
resistance
Capacity to withstand force
- rebellionDefiance of established power
- refusalAct of declining
- confrontationDirect hostile encounter
disobedience · insubordination · boldness · assertiveness · pushback · recalcitrance · noncompliance · challenge · provocation · dissent
backlash
Strong negative reaction
uproar · condemnation · furor · fallout · repercussion · doubling down · viral moment · cancel culture · accountability · damage control
self-respect
Valuing one's own worth
- dignityInnate personal worth
- empowermentGaining authority or confidence
- self-worthInternal sense of value
confidence · self-assurance · self-esteem · conviction · integrity · authenticity · self-acceptance · self-affirmation · validation · liberation
dismissiveness
Attitude of casual disregard
- disregardWillful lack of attention
- unconcernAbsence of worry
- nonchalanceCalm, casual composure
shrug · detachment · apathy · callousness · insensitivity · coldness · aloofness · dispassion · unresponsiveness · flippancy
unapologysincere apology
Genuine expression of regret
heartfelt apology · apology · remorse · contrition · penitence
unapologytaking responsibility
owning up · admission of guilt · confession · self-incrimination · coming clean