ACCEPTING / REFUSING

HOW TO ACCEPT AND REFUSE IN ENGLISH

Cristobal Gomez

Kaplan International Languages
February 12, 2021

Being able to say something in a basic way is already a victory in another language, but understanding how to politely respond to people is the next step in your English language learning. Find out how to accept something graciously, or refuse politely, with the examples below.

FORMAL ACCEPTANCE / REFUSAL

Would you like a piece of chocolate?

• Thank you, yes I would.
• No, thank you.
• I'd love some, thank you!
• Thank you, but I'm alright.

Would you like to come to my party tomorrow night?

• Yes, I would love to attend your party.
• Thank you for the invitation.
• I'm sorry, but I can't make it.

Are you free tomorrow evening?

• I'm hosting a party.
• Yes, that sounds like fun.
• Thank you for inviting me.
• I can't attend, but thank you for the invitation.

INFORMAL ACCEPTANCE / REFUSAL

Do you want some chocolate?

• Sounds great.
• No, thanks.

Want any chocolate?

• Sure, thanks.
• No, but thanks for asking.

Do you want to come to my party tomorrow?

• Sure, thanks for the invite.
• Thanks for asking, but I'm busy.

Want to come to my party?

• Sounds great! I'll be there.
• Sorry, I can't make it.

Adapted from: https://origin.kaplaninternational.com/blog/working-internationally/eng/how-to-accept-and-refuse-english. Accessed on March 18, 2021.