Saying No Politely
Use these practical phrases to decline invitations or offers politely and suggest alternatives in daily French conversations.
Key Phrases
C’est vraiment très gentil de ta part, mais je ne pourrai malheureusement pas venir ce soir.
That is really very kind of you, but unfortunately I will not be able to come tonight.
💡 A polite way to decline a same-day social invitation using the simple future.
Je suis désolé, mais j'ai déjà prévu une autre activité importante avec ma famille ce week-end.
I am sorry, but I have already planned another important activity with my family this weekend.
💡 Perfect for giving a clear, personal reason without being overly detailed.
Je regrette beaucoup que nous ne puissions pas passer cette soirée agréable ensemble chez toi.
I very much regret that we cannot spend this pleasant evening together at your place.
💡 Uses the subjunctive present after a verb expressing regret to soften the refusal.
Je te propose que nous nous voyions la semaine prochaine pour prendre un café tranquillement.
I suggest that we meet next week to have a coffee quietly.
💡 Use this to suggest an alternative time to show you still value the relationship.
Ce sera avec grand plaisir une prochaine fois, quand j'aurai un peu plus de temps.
It will be with great pleasure another time, when I have a little more time.
💡 A standard polite closing to leave the door open for future plans.
Je te remercie pour cette invitation chaleureuse qui me fait plaisir, mais je dois travailler tard.
Thank you for this warm invitation which makes me happy, but I have to work late.
💡 Combines a relative clause with a clear professional reason for declining.
C'est aimable à vous, mais je viens de finir de manger et je n'ai plus faim.
That is kind of you, but I have just finished eating and I am no longer hungry.
💡 Use this polite phrase to decline an offer of food or snacks.
Je refuse cette proposition dont nous avons parlé hier, car mon emploi du temps est complet.
I decline this proposal that we talked about yesterday, because my schedule is full.
💡 Uses the relative pronoun 'dont' to refer back to a previously discussed topic.
Je voulais vraiment assister à cette fête, mais un empêchement de dernière minute est survenu.
I really wanted to attend this party, but a last-minute conflict has come up.
💡 Contrasts the imparfait of intention with the passé composé of the sudden event.