15+ Other Ways to Say “Sorry for the Short Notice” 2025

Have you ever felt awkward starting a message with “Sorry for the short notice”? It’s a common phrase—but in professional communication, it can sound repetitive or even apologetically weak. Whether you’re writing to a colleague, manager, or client, the way you acknowledge timing matters.

Learn how to express last-minute communication professionally with polished alternatives to “Sorry for the short notice” that maintain respect, clarity, and confidence. This guide offers refined, courteous options you can use in emails, texts, or announcements without sounding rushed or overly apologetic.

Synonyms for “Sorry for the Short Notice”

• Apologies for the limited notice.
• I realize this is last minute.
• Sorry for the late communication.
• Appreciate your flexibility.
• Sorry for the rush.
• Thanks for stepping in quickly.
• I realize this is sudden.
• Apologies for the timing.
• Thanks for your time on short notice.
• I know this is unexpected.
• Sorry for the quick turnaround.
• Grateful for your fast support.
• Thanks for adjusting so fast.
• Apologies for the short lead time.
• I appreciate your prompt help.
• Thanks for being available.
• Sorry this came up so late.
• Appreciate the fast turnaround.
• Thanks for jumping in.
• I know it’s short notice — thank you.

Apologies for the Limited Notice

Sometimes tasks or updates come up unexpectedly, and there’s not enough time to prepare. Saying “Apologies for the limited notice” is a respectful way to show that you’re aware of the inconvenience. It’s a professional expression that values the other person’s time and effort, even when things are rushed.

This phrase is useful when you’re requesting last-minute help, setting up a sudden meeting, or sharing urgent updates. By using it, you’re taking responsibility for the short timeline while showing that you still care about clear communication. It helps reduce friction and builds mutual understanding.

In my work, I’ve often had to send design changes right before a deadline. Opening with “Apologies for the limited notice” softened the urgency and made the request feel more considerate. Most people are willing to help if they feel respected and not taken for granted.

Use this phrase when you want to stay polite, honest, and direct, especially in time-sensitive situations. It keeps your message empathetic, while still getting the point across quickly and clearly.

I Realize This Is Last Minute

Starting your request with “I realize this is last minute” shows that you’re aware of the sudden nature of your message. It helps the other person understand that you’re not ignoring their schedule — you’re simply in a tight spot and need support quickly.

This phrase is ideal when making urgent requests, changing plans at the eleventh hour, or asking for feedback on short notice. It communicates awareness and humility, which can ease tension or frustration on the other side.

I’ve used this when asking teammates for quick feedback on a proposal or when rescheduling a call due to an emergency. It made the message feel genuine and more understandable, rather than just demanding.

Using this phrase keeps the tone apologetic yet professional, helping you maintain strong relationships even when things don’t go according to plan.

Sorry for the Late Communication

When you say “Sorry for the late communication”, you’re taking accountability for not reaching out sooner. This is a professional and kind way to admit delays while still keeping your message focused and respectful.

Whether you missed a reply, postponed a response, or simply got caught in a busy schedule, this phrase helps soften any possible disappointment or confusion. It puts emphasis on honesty and courtesy.

I remember replying to a client three days late because of a backlog. I started with “Sorry for the late communication”, and they appreciated the honesty. We moved forward without any negativity, simply because the tone was transparent.

This phrase builds trust, even in delay. It shows that you care enough to acknowledge timing rather than pretend everything is fine.

Appreciate Your Flexibility

Using “Appreciate your flexibility” is a great way to show gratitude when someone adjusts their time or expectations for you. It acknowledges their cooperation and highlights that their help didn’t go unnoticed.

You might say this after a meeting is rescheduled, a deadline is adjusted, or someone shifts priorities to assist you. It carries both thankfulness and respect, making the tone feel warm and professional.

In one project, I had to ask a developer to rearrange his tasks to help with an urgent feature. After it was done, I said, “Really appreciate your flexibility”, and it helped strengthen our working bond.

This phrase shows you value teamwork, time, and adaptability, especially in a fast-moving environment. It makes your appreciation feel genuine and specific.

Sorry for the Rush

Sometimes work gets hectic, and you need things done faster than usual. Saying “Sorry for the rush” recognizes that you’re asking someone to work under time pressure, and that acknowledgment can go a long way.

This phrase is often used when pushing for urgent feedback, last-minute approvals, or accelerated timelines. It keeps the tone respectful, even when the situation demands speed.

I once asked a designer to make overnight changes for a press release. Beginning with “Sorry for the rush” made the message more courteous, and they responded with extra effort because they felt respected.

Using this phrase balances urgency with politeness, helping you maintain both momentum and professionalism.

Thanks for Stepping In Quickly

Saying “Thanks for stepping in quickly” shows appreciation for someone who acted fast when you needed help. It’s especially valuable when someone fills a gap, takes over a task, or responds immediately during an urgent moment.

This phrase is a great way to show you recognize their initiative, and that you don’t take their quick response for granted. It’s a way to say: You saved the day — and I see that.

During a client presentation last year, a teammate jumped in when my screen froze. After the meeting, I said, “Thanks for stepping in quickly — it meant a lot.” That genuine acknowledgment helped strengthen our working relationship.

Use this line to give someone credit for being reliable under pressure. It’s simple, sincere, and reinforces that their fast action didn’t go unnoticed.

I Realize This Is Sudden

Using “I realize this is sudden” helps soften a spontaneous request or an unexpected change. It shows you’re aware that your message or update may catch someone off guard — and that you’re not taking their time lightly.

This is perfect for last-minute changes in meetings, assignments, or even personal commitments. It adds a touch of empathy, making your message feel more thoughtful and respectful.

I once had to change a scheduled workshop just a few hours before it started. I began my note with “I realize this is sudden”, and it helped participants respond with more understanding and patience.

This phrase balances urgency with awareness. It tells the other person: I know this wasn’t part of the plan, but I appreciate your flexibility.

Apologies for the Timing

Saying “Apologies for the timing” is a graceful way to express that you understand your message might not come at the most convenient moment. It’s particularly useful when contacting someone outside of regular hours or during busy periods.

It gives your message a courteous tone, while still allowing you to ask what you need. It’s a sign of emotional intelligence — you’re not just thinking about what you want but also how it might affect the other person.

I’ve used this phrase when reaching out to someone late in the evening due to a time-zone difference. Opening with “Apologies for the timing” helped set a respectful tone, even before the request was made.

Use this phrase to be mindful and considerate, especially when you’re unsure if your message might feel intrusive or badly timed.

Thanks for Your Time on Short Notice

When someone agrees to help or meet you without much lead time, saying “Thanks for your time on short notice” is a warm and appreciative response. It shows you value not just their help, but also the time they gave up to assist you quickly.

This phrase works well in situations like emergency calls, last-minute interviews, or sudden team updates. It conveys both gratitude and respect for their flexibility and support.

I once had to request a same-day review from a busy editor. After the task was completed, I followed up with “Thanks for your time on short notice”, which helped keep the relationship positive and collaborative.

This small phrase can leave a lasting impact, because it turns a rushed situation into a moment of genuine appreciation.

I Know This Is Unexpected

“I know this is unexpected” is a kind, thoughtful way to introduce a surprise change, request, or message. It lets people know that you’re aware this is out of the ordinary, and that you respect their perspective.

You can use it when delivering surprising news, asking for help with a non-routine task, or changing a plan suddenly. It helps ease confusion by showing you’ve already thought about how this might feel to the other person.

I once had to inform a team that a new process would begin immediately. Starting with “I know this is unexpected” helped reduce tension and opened the door to constructive conversation instead of resistance.

This phrase adds a layer of empathy to your communication — and people are more likely to respond positively when they feel acknowledged and respected.

Sorry for the Quick Turnaround

When timelines are tight, saying “Sorry for the quick turnaround” shows that you recognize you’re asking someone to respond or act faster than usual. It’s a respectful way to admit the urgency, while still showing appreciation for their effort.

This phrase is especially useful in creative projects, client requests, or internal approvals where deadlines suddenly shift. It keeps the conversation honest and balanced without adding pressure.

I remember needing a report redesigned overnight for a stakeholder presentation. I opened the request with “Sorry for the quick turnaround”, and the designer appreciated the acknowledgment, even before starting the work.

Using this phrase helps soften the impact of last-minute work. It creates a tone of mutual respect, even when things need to move fast.

Grateful for Your Fast Support

“Grateful for your fast support” is a warm, sincere way to recognize someone’s quick action during a time of need. It shows that their speed and effort didn’t just solve a task — it made a real difference.

This phrase works best when someone helps with an unexpected issue, steps in during a crisis, or responds to an urgent need without hesitation. It reflects not just thankfulness, but deep appreciation.

I once had a technical issue an hour before going live with a campaign. A colleague jumped in and resolved it within minutes. I followed up with, “Grateful for your fast support — you saved the day.” That message built trust and goodwill.

Use this phrase when someone’s timely action truly helped. It shows emotional awareness and keeps your communication kind and impactful.

Thanks for Adjusting So Fast

When people adapt quickly, especially under pressure, saying “Thanks for adjusting so fast” helps them feel recognized and valued. It acknowledges that they made an effort to shift their plans for you.

This is ideal when someone reschedules, changes focus, or pivots a strategy based on your request or situation. It makes your message more thoughtful and helps build a stronger professional bond.

During a product launch, our marketing strategy had to change hours before going live. The entire team shifted gears quickly, and I made sure to say, “Thanks for adjusting so fast — I know that wasn’t easy.” It helped everyone feel seen and motivated.

This phrase is about more than just speed — it’s about showing appreciation for flexibility, cooperation, and professionalism under pressure.

Apologies for the Short Lead Time

Sometimes projects begin with little to no warning, and people are asked to jump in fast. Saying “Apologies for the short lead time” shows you understand the pressure and respect the person’s time and energy.

This phrase is often used in event planning, content creation, or team assignments where people don’t have their usual prep window. It offers a tone of consideration, even when you can’t offer more time.

I once had to invite speakers for a webinar only four days before the event. I began my message with, “Apologies for the short lead time,” and surprisingly, many agreed — because they felt respected upfront.

Using this phrase adds grace to an urgent request. It helps ease frustration and shows you’re not just thinking about the task — you’re thinking about the person behind it.

I Appreciate Your Prompt Help

When someone assists quickly, “I appreciate your prompt help” is a strong and sincere way to say thank you. It combines gratitude with a focus on the speed and reliability of their action.

This phrase is helpful for both colleagues and clients, especially in time-sensitive projects, tight feedback loops, or urgent communication. It reinforces that their contribution mattered.

I’ve used this phrase many times during tight launches. When someone replies fast or delivers ahead of time, I say, “I really appreciate your prompt help — it made all the difference.” That kind of feedback makes people feel motivated and supported.

Use this expression to show that fast support is not just noticed — it’s deeply appreciated and helps move things forward efficiently.

Thanks for Being Available

When someone shows up, especially on short notice, saying “Thanks for being available” is a warm, respectful way to appreciate their presence and support. It recognizes their willingness to help, even if the timing wasn’t ideal.

This phrase works well whether you’re acknowledging someone joining a call, replying quickly, or simply being there when you needed them. It’s a small phrase that can carry big meaning, especially in professional relationships.

I once had to reach out to a senior developer after hours for a technical issue. He responded immediately. I followed up the next day with “Thanks for being available last night — really meant a lot.” That one message helped build long-term trust.

Use this phrase when you want to affirm that their presence was noticed and appreciated. It keeps your message friendly, respectful, and emotionally intelligent.

Sorry This Came Up So Late

When something arrives late in the day — or late in the process — “Sorry this came up so late” helps you admit the timing without sounding careless. It shows awareness and responsibility, even if the situation was out of your control.

This phrase is helpful when sending documents, updates, or assignments later than expected. It gives your message a more empathetic tone, helping reduce frustration or stress for the other person.

I once had to deliver project notes just before a client’s long weekend. I began with “Sorry this came up so late”, and it helped frame the request as understanding and considerate, not demanding.

It’s not just about being polite — it’s about showing you value others’ time and aren’t overlooking their schedule. That awareness builds stronger, more respectful communication.

Appreciate the Fast Turnaround

When a teammate or collaborator finishes something quickly, “Appreciate the fast turnaround” is a great way to thank them for their speed and effort. It keeps your gratitude specific and encourages continued responsiveness.

You can use this after reviewing edits, receiving approvals, or getting help on last-minute work. It shows you recognize how quickly they moved — and that you’re grateful for it.

I once asked a writer to review copy within 24 hours for a surprise campaign. When they delivered on time, I followed up with, “Really appreciate the fast turnaround — it helped us go live on schedule.” It reinforced trust and positivity.

This phrase is more than thanks — it’s a clear signal that their timely effort had real impact. It makes your appreciation feel authentic and results-driven.

Thanks for Jumping In

Sometimes, people step into situations without warning — and they save the day. Saying “Thanks for jumping in” is a genuine and informal way to recognize their effort, especially in high-pressure or unexpected moments.

It’s perfect when someone helps solve a sudden issue, joins a meeting unplanned, or steps up to handle an urgent task. It highlights their willingness and adaptability.

During a launch call, one of our analysts joined mid-discussion to cover for a team lead who dropped off. Afterward, I messaged her, “Thanks for jumping in — you handled that perfectly.” She told me it was one of the best compliments she’d received.

This phrase keeps your tone appreciative, personal, and direct. It’s great for building team spirit and letting people know they’re seen and valued.

I Know It’s Short Notice — Thank You

When you’re asking for help or support urgently, saying “I know it’s short notice — thank you” blends awareness and gratitude into a single, powerful phrase. It shows you understand the pressure while still being grateful for their time.

This is ideal for sudden meetings, event invites, or urgent deliverables. It makes your message more human and softens the request, creating a more positive tone even when stress levels are high.

I remember inviting someone to speak at a webinar with just two days’ notice. I began the message with “I know it’s short notice — thank you for even considering.” They later said the wording helped them feel respected instead of rushed.

Use this phrase to keep your communication empathetic, honest, and appreciative — even when time is tight. It goes a long way in building goodwill and cooperation.

Learn More: Other Ways to Say “I Have Not Heard From You”

Real-Life Scenarios and Examples

1. Scenario: Team Email for Emergency Meeting

You’re informing your team about a meeting happening later the same day.

Example:
“Thanks for your flexibility—this meeting came together quickly, and I appreciate your availability on short notice.”

2. Scenario: Client Notification Before a Deadline

You’re alerting a client to review something urgently before close of business.

Example:
“I realize this is a last-minute update, but your quick review would really help us stay on track for tomorrow’s deadline.”

3. Scenario: Personal Invitation to an Event

You’re inviting a colleague or friend to an event happening tomorrow.

Example:
“I know this is a bit of a rush, but I’d love to see you at tomorrow’s lunch event if you’re free.”

4. Scenario: Internal Slack or Chat Message

You need quick input from a coworker just before a task is due.

Example:
“Apologies for the quick turnaround request, but could you take a quick look at this before 2 PM?”

5. Scenario: Management-Level Communication

You’re a manager needing urgent feedback from leadership.

Example:
“I appreciate your time—this is a time-sensitive ask, and I understand it may require fast consideration.”

Conclusion

Being respectful of others’ time is important—but how you say it can either weaken or enhance your message. Phrases like “last-minute update,” “quick turnaround request,” or “time-sensitive ask” maintain professionalism without sounding too apologetic.

They show awareness and urgency while keeping the tone confident and considerate. So the next time you’re tempted to say “Sorry for the short notice,” consider using a more thoughtful phrase that fits your voice—and your situation—better.