A2Norwegian

Saying No Politely

Use these phrases to politely decline offers or invitations, provide a simple reason, and suggest alternative plans.

Key Phrases

Voice
Declining an offer · 2 ways to say it

Nei takk, det går bra.

casual

No thanks, I'm good.

A very common and relaxed way to decline something.

Ellers takk.

neutral

Thanks anyway.

Short and polite. Often used when someone offers help or a drink.

Declining an invitation · 2 ways to say it

Jeg kan ikke i kveld.

casual

I can't tonight.

Dessverre, jeg kan ikke komme.

neutral

Unfortunately, I can't come.

Using 'dessverre' softens the refusal significantly.

Softening the refusal · 2 ways to say it

Det passer ikke i dag.

casual

It is not a good time today.

Literally translates to 'it does not suit today'.

Det passer dessverre ikke så bra.

polite

Unfortunately, it is not very convenient.

Giving a reason · 2 ways to say it

Jeg må jobbe.

casual

I have to work.

Jeg har allerede andre planer.

neutral

I already have other plans.

Suggesting an alternative · 2 ways to say it

Hva med i morgen?

casual

What about tomorrow?

Kanskje en annen gang?

neutral

Maybe another time?

Practice Dialogue

Project Manager
Hei! Skal vi spise lunsj sammen?
Designer
Hei! Dessverre, jeg kan ikke.
Project Manager
Å ja. Mye å gjøre?
Designer
Ja, jeg må jobbe.
Project Manager
Jeg forstår. Vil du ha en kaffe fra kjøkkenet?
Designer
Ellers takk.
Project Manager
Den er grei. Kanskje en annen gang?
Designer
Ja. Hva med i morgen?
Project Manager
Det passer fint.

More Greetings & Socializing (A2)

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