Saying No – List of Examples

  • I invite you to my birthday party in two weeks. Will you come?
    • I’m so sorry. I really have no time. I will be visiting my sick mother on the country side. (Alternatives: I will be on a vacation. Or: I will have an operation on my hip.)

  • I am so hungry, Mama. Can you make something to eat for me?
    • I will not cook for you today, I am too tired after going for shopping all morning.

  • Could you please pay me some money for commuting to work? Prices for public transport have gone up so much, I can barely afford coming to work.
    • Transport fees are not part of our work agreement. Are you aware of this?

  • I would like to annex certain parts of your country.
    • No.

  • Mr. Donald J. Trump was elected US president.
    • I think criminals should not be a president. He is a convicted felon.

  • I would like all participants to open their camera.
    • Three people do not open their camera.