Maybe another time

Informal Polite

What it really means

Often a gentle, final "no" rather than a real plan to rearrange. If the speaker suggests an actual new date, they mean it; if not, it usually closes the topic politely.

Chinese explanation

常常是温和而彻底的"不了"，并非真要改期。如果对方主动提出新的具体日期，那是认真的；否则这句话基本是在礼貌收尾。

Example conversation

A: Sure you won't join us for karaoke? B: Maybe another time. Have fun though!

A：真不跟我们去唱K吗？ B：下次吧。你们玩得开心！

What you could say back

“No worries, we'll hold you to it!”

Related phrases

I might join you later I'd love to, but… We must get together sometime

Go deeper

British Politeness Explained: Why "Interesting" Means "No"

All Politeness Decoder

Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team · Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake