She continues: “Girls’ and boys’ conversational styles reflect these differences. The way girls’ talk to each other is generally more collaborative and accommodating compared to boys. Among boys, there is more jockeying back and forth and more ‘trash talking’ (often, but not always, in a good natured way). So boys tend to develop a self-protective interactional style and to avoid showing or admitting to weaknesses.”

It is thought that these learnings as children are carried into adulthood, with women offering each other apologies easily and often exchanging them as a symbol that they both value the relationship. In fact, while many of us may not be as truly, deeply sorry as we would be if something terrible had happened, apologising helps keep s the bonds between us sweet and shows we care.

For men, however, an apology is usually only needed if a situation feels serious, and as Rose says will often be met with a simple “OK” with no counter apology to be seen.

Essentially, it might seem like women apologise more because they’re happy to roll over and accept defeat, but in actual fact it’s an astute tool that strengthens our relationships and therefore positively benefits our growth. Why aren’t women running the world, again?

Yes, women are more likely to say sorry – but it’s a strength, not a weakness