A short reply can be both clear and friendly.

The idea

Thank the person, say you cannot attend and briefly explain why. You can suggest another day.

Examples

  • Thank you for inviting me to dinner.
  • I am sorry, but I cannot come.
  • I have a class that evening.
  • I am working on Saturday.
  • Could we meet another day?
  • I hope you enjoy the concert.

Read-aloud uses a synthetic English voice on your device. Quality and availability vary; it does not assess pronunciation.

Watch out

Do not leave your answer unclear by giving a reason without saying whether you can come.

Try it yourself

  1. Thank the host. Thank you for the invitation. / The invitation is blue.

    Show answer or example answer

    Thank you for the invitation.

    Thank you for the invitation. thanks the host.

  2. Politely say you cannot attend. I am afraid I cannot come. / I will be there.

    Show answer or example answer

    I am afraid I cannot come.

    I am afraid I cannot come. clearly says you cannot attend.

  3. Give a brief reason. I have to work that day. / The room has two windows.

    Show answer or example answer

    I have to work that day.

    I have to work that day. gives a short reason.

Use it today

Write a reply declining a meal invitation and suggest another day.