10 ways to politely say 'NO' (2024)

New Delhi,UPDATED: Apr 19, 2019 12:11 IST

Often end up in uncomfortable and messy situations which could totally be avoided if you'd have said NO?

Almost everyone has been saying 'No' to certain favour or a task isn't as easy as one might think.

If not said right, it can often ruin friendships, relationships and a lot more. But agreeing to do something, that doesn't seem right or is uncomfortable for you isn't also always the right way to go.

So, what should one do in these situations? How to say 'No' politely.

It is tricky but it can avoid you a tonne of anxiety.

Here are 10 ways for you to say 'NO' in a polite manner:

1. I'm honoured but I can't

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2. I wish there were two of me

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3. Unfortunately, now is not a good time.

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4. Sorry, I'm booked into something else right now

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5. Damn, not able to fit this one in!

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6. Sadly, I have something else

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7. No, thank you but it sounds lovely, so next time

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8. I'm not taking anything else right now

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9. Thank you so much for thinking of me, but I can't!

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10. I have another commitment

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Also read: 20 words to use instead of 'sad'

For more such articles on common English mistakes and vocabulary-building tips, follow our section Grammar and Vocabulary.