How to say “no” politely: Here are the different ways (2024)

Let's look at some simple ways that we can say no politely.

How to say “no” politely: Here are the different ways (1)

How to say “no” politely: Here are the different ways

Saying no can be really difficult because you don’t want to upset people. You might be worried about what they will think of you or how they will react. Maybe you’ll lose their favor. We all have to say no sometimes. We cannot say yes to everyone and everything. However, we still want to be polite when we say no, reject an offer, or refuse an invitation. We do not want to make people feel bad or make people think that we are rude.

SAYING NO TO AN INVITATION OR OFFER

  • I appreciate the offer, but I can’t.
  • I’m honored, but can’t.
  • I’d love to, but I can’t.
  • I appreciate the invitation, but I am completely booked.
  • Thanks for thinking of me, but I can’t.
  • Regrettably, I’m not able to.
  • You’re so kind to think of me, but I can’t.
  • No thank you, but it sounds lovely.
  • Thanks for the offer, but I can’t.
  • Thanks, but Maybe another time.
  • I’m flattered you considered me, but unfortunately I’ll have to pass this time.
  • Sounds great, but I can’t commit.
  • No thank you, but it sounds lovely.
  • Thanks, but no thanks.

STOP SAYING YES'' IF YOU WANT TO SAY 'NO'

1. Use the word:

Not, Not at this time’, not I don’t think so’, not I’m not sure’, not Maybe next time’. The word NO is a powerful thing. Use it if you are absolutely, unequivocally sure that there is no other answer. And don’t apologise for saying it. If need be, practise saying the word until it loses its power over you.

2. Or a firm (but polite) alternative:

  • I appreciate your time, but no thank you.
  • Thanks for thinking of me, but I have too much on my plate right now.
  • No thanks!
  • Not today, thanks.
  • Not for me, thanks.
  • I’m afraid I can’t.
  • I’m not really into [heavy metal/decoupage/Pokemon Go], but thanks for asking!
  • I’d rather not, thanks
  • I think I’ll pass

HOW TO SAY NO FOR ANY REASON AT ALL!

  • I wish I could make it work.
  • I wish I were able to.
  • I’d rather not
  • I’m afraid I can’t.
  • If only I could!
  • No thanks, I won’t be able to make it.
  • Not this time.
  • Unfortunately, it’s not a good time.
  • Unfortunately I can’t.
  • I’d rather not.
  • I wish there were two of me, but I can’t.
  • I have something else. Sorry.
  • Apologies, but I can’t make it.
  • Maybe another time.
  • I would if I could, but I can’t.
  • I’d love to but can’t.
  • Darn! Not able to fit it in.
  • Rats! Would’ve loved to.
  • I’ll need to bow out.
  • I won’t be able to
  • I really shouldn’t.
  • Sorry, I can’t

It is polite to give a reason why. If we just say, "No", then the other person will probably feel bad or offended.

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Published By:

Smarica Pant

Published On:

Mar 19, 2020

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How to say “no” politely:  Here are the different ways (2024)
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