In the U.K., the most over-used word is arguably “sorry”. I personally think the word “sorry” has a primary meaning of wrongdoing or regret which does not apply in some cases when we say sorry in our daily life. There are definitely occasions to apologize to others, but not in all cases. We don’t need to start with a negative mode in our mind for over-using the word “sorry” when in fact it is not the most appropriate response.
For example, if one can’t find time to catch up with a friend or something happened that it is not your fault, one tends to automatically say, “oh, sorry…”. May I suggest these alternatives.
1) Oh, that is a challenge.
2) Oh, that is tough.
3) Oh, that is a shame.
4) Oh, that is unfortunate.
5) Well…