Declining offers and requests (also known as saying no) leads to establishing boundaries. It also sets clarity on people’s expectations towards you.

Tip #1: Express it directly

  • Sorry, I’ll have to pass  
  • I’ll have to pass 
  • Pass (close friend)

Your response depends on the personality and your relationship with the person who requested something from you.

Situation 1

Jenny: Do you want to join us on Saturday?
Ben: Sorry, I’ll have to pass.

Tip #2 You can also decline nicely and mention the reason. You may also follow this pattern: I’d love to, but+reason

Situation 2

Mary: Do you want to join us on Saturday?
Katie: I’d love to, but I’ll be doing something with my sister.

Tip #3 When somebody asks something from you, but the set-up is not favorable. Use this pattern.

  • Thank you for asking, but that isn’t going to work out for me.
  • Thank you so much for thinking of me, but I can’t!

Situation 3

Team Leader: Would you like to work on a graveyard shift?
Jill(Senior Agent): “Thank you for asking, but that isn’t going to work out for me.”

Tip #4 Politely decline an invitation by being gracious and telling them that you are tied.

  • I appreciate you for asking me, but my time is already committed.

Situation 4

Jane: Let’s go to the movie screening of XMEN this weekend.
Rina: I appreciate you for asking me, but my time is already committed.

Tip #5 Let them know that the timing is not right

Situation 5

Ginny: Do you want to talk about your problem?
Serena: Unfortunately, now is not a good time. I will open up when I’m ready.

Check out our ESL Courses and become a global talent through 11talk.

Never stop learning English! 💓Sign up for a free class with professional English teachers+ initial English level assessment: https://11talk.net #situationalenglish #englishlesson #11TALK #EnglishlessonSeries #lessonseries