A1
Expression
Neutral
Meaning
A negative answer denying permission to someone.
🌍
Cultural Background
Americans often use 'I'm afraid not' to soften the blow. British speakers might use 'I'm afraid you can't' to be polite.
💡
Tone matters
Add a smile if you want to be less harsh.
Meaning
A negative answer denying permission to someone.
💡
Tone matters
Add a smile if you want to be less harsh.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
A: Can I go to the party? B: ____, you can't.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: No
The phrase is 'No, you can't'.
🎉 Score: /1
Practice Bank
1 exercises
Complete the sentence.
Fill Blank
A1
A: Can I go to the party? B: ____, you can't.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: No
The phrase is 'No, you can't'.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsIt depends on your tone.
Related Phrases
🔗
I'm afraid not
similarPolite refusal
Was this helpful?
Comments (0)
Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!
