In the journey of learning a new language, it’s crucial not only to master ways of seeking permission but also to understand the different ways of politely refusing. In English, there are several common expressions for gracefully declining requests while maintaining a respectful and courteous attitude.
In this lesson, we will delve into various expressions in English that equip you with the ability to gracefully decline requests while maintaining a considerate and respectful tone.
“I’m sorry, but it’s not possible.”
This phrase is a straightforward way to refuse permission without providing specific reasons. Use it when you prefer not to go into detail about why you are declining.
Situation: A friend asks you to accompany them to a party on the same night you’ve planned to spend time with family.
Your response:
“I’m sorry, but it’s not possible. I had already planned to spend time with family that evening.”
“I’m afraid that’s not feasible.”
This expression indicates that you have reservations about the feasibility of the request, implying doubts about its practicality.
Situation: Your colleague asks you to complete a complex project in a day, which seems challenging given your workload.
Your response:
“I’m afraid that’s not feasible in such a short timeframe. The project is quite complex and requires more time for proper completion.”
“Unfortunately, I cannot authorize you to do that.”
Using “unfortunately” shows your understanding of the other person’s disappointment. This phrase works well when you feel compassion for the situation.
Situation: An employee requests permission to borrow expensive equipment from the company for personal use.
Your response:
“Unfortunately, I cannot authorize you to do that. The equipment is reserved for professional use, and lending it for personal purposes is not allowed.”
“I’m truly sorry, but I have to refuse.”
Adding “truly” and “sorry” reinforces the regrettable nature of the situation, indicating your understanding of the request’s importance.
Situation: A friend asks to borrow a significant amount of money, but you can’t afford to do so for financial reasons.
Your response:
“I’m truly sorry, but I have to refuse. Currently, my financial situation doesn’t allow me to lend such a substantial amount.”
“It is with regret that I cannot accept your request.”
This expression highlights the regret you feel in refusing permission, emphasizing that your decision is not taken lightly.
Situation: You receive an invitation to participate in a charity event as a speaker, but due to a busy schedule, you cannot attend.
Your response:
“It is with regret that I cannot accept your request. My schedule is currently very busy, and I wouldn’t be able to free up for the event.”
“I understand your request; however, I cannot grant it.”
By acknowledging the request while refusing, you demonstrate that you have considered the other person’s appeal.
Situation: An employee requests time off during a busy work period.
Your response:
“I understand your request; however, I cannot grant it. This period is critical in terms of workload, and we need all hands available.”
“I really wish I could help, but it’s not possible.”
This phrase expresses a sincere desire to help while indicating that it’s unfortunately not feasible.
Situation: A friend asks to borrow your car for a day, but you have already planned to use it for personal obligations.
Your response:
“I really wish I could help, but it’s not possible. I already have commitments to use my car today.”
“I would have liked to say yes, but I have to say no.”
By contrasting the desire to grant permission with the necessity to refuse, this expression reflects an internal conflict between your wishes and obligations.
Situation: A member of a volunteer organization asks you to take on a significant responsibility, but you already have other commitments preventing you from doing so.
Your response:
“I would have liked to say yes, but I have to say no. Currently, I have other commitments that require my time and attention.”
Knowing how to politely refuse is just as important as knowing how to politely request. By using these expressions to decline requests in English, you’ll be able to maintain respectful and courteous relationships with others, even when you cannot respond positively to their requests. Keep in mind the appropriate context and tone for each situation to ensure your refusal is understood respectfully.
