Saying No Politely
Use these practical phrases to decline invitations or offers politely in everyday social situations.
Key Phrases
C'est gentil, mais je ne peux pas venir.
That is nice, but I cannot come.
💡 A very common and polite way to decline an invitation.
Je suis désolé, j'ai déjà un autre projet.
I am sorry, I already have another plan.
💡 Useful when you want to give a simple explanation.
Merci pour l'invitation, mais je dois travailler.
Thank you for the invitation, but I have to work.
💡 A clear and polite reason to decline a work-related or social event.
Je ne vais pas aller à la fête ce soir.
I am not going to go to the party tonight.
💡 Uses the near future to express your plan to not attend.
Est-ce que nous pouvons faire ça une autre fois ?
Can we do that another time?
💡 A polite way to suggest an alternative date.
Je ne suis pas libre pour le dîner de samedi.
I am not free for Saturday's dinner.
💡 A direct but polite refusal of a specific day.
Je veux bien, mais je vais visiter ma famille.
I would like to, but I am going to visit my family.
💡 Shows positive intent followed by a near-future explanation.
C'est une bonne idée, mais je n'ai pas le temps.
It is a good idea, but I do not have the time.
💡 Softens the refusal by validating the other person's idea first.
Merci, mais je ne vais pas boire de café aujourd'hui.
Thank you, but I am not going to drink coffee today.
💡 Good for declining food or drink offers.
Je ne peux pas ce soir, j'ai beaucoup de devoirs.
I cannot tonight, I have a lot of homework.
💡 Perfect for students declining a weekday outing.