Friends & datingIntermediate
Turning down an invitation in English
What to say when a friend invites you and you want to say no politely.
The textbook way: people will understand, but it isn't what they say
No. I don't want to go.
What people actually say ↓Full script
Them
Hey Lin! Want to come to my party on Saturday?
Lin
Oh, thanks for the invite!
Lin
I'd love to, but I already have plans.
Them
Aw, no worries!
Lin
Can I take a rain check?
Them
Sure! Next time, then.
Lin
Next time for sure. Have fun!
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
When a friend invites you, say
✓ Thanks for the invite!Friendly: show thanks first
'invite' can be a noun in speech
Don't want to / can't go
✗ No. I don't want to go.
✓ I'd love to, but I have plans.Soft way to say no
Also: I can't make it this time.
Keep it friendly
✓ Can I take a rain check?Ask to do it another time
Originally, a rain-delay ticket
Wish them a good time
✓ Have fun!Friendly closing
They may say: Thanks! / Next time!
Quick answers
When a friend invites you, say: what to say in English
Say “Thanks for the invite!” — friendly: show thanks first. 'invite' can be a noun in speech.
Don't want to / can't go: what to say in English
Say “I'd love to, but I have plans.” — soft way to say no. Also: I can't make it this time.
Keep it friendly: what to say in English
Say “Can I take a rain check?” — ask to do it another time. Originally, a rain-delay ticket.
Wish them a good time: what to say in English
Say “Have fun!” — friendly closing. They may say: Thanks! / Next time!