I'm afraid I can't make it
Neutral Polite
What it really means
The standard polite way to decline an invitation. No detailed excuse is required — British people often accept a vague reason without questions. Adding "maybe another time" softens it further.
Chinese explanation
拒绝邀请的标准礼貌说法。不需要详细解释——英国人通常不会追问模糊的理由。再加一句 maybe another time 会更缓和。
Example conversation
A: We're having a housewarming on Friday — can you come?
B: I'm afraid I can't make it, but have a brilliant time!
A：我们周五办乔迁聚会——你能来吗？
B：恐怕我来不了，祝你们玩得开心！
All Politeness Decoder
Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team
· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake