Afraid not Meaning in English

expression

US

əˈfɹeɪd/ /ˈnɑt

uh-FRAYD NAHT

UK

ɐfɹˈeɪd/ /nˈɒt

uh-FRAYD NOT

Definition

A polite or gentle way to say 'no', especially when turning someone down or denying a request.

Usage & Nuances

Mainly used in spoken, polite conversation. Often follows a direct question. Softer than just saying 'no'. Common in British English.

• Spanish: me temo que no - lamentablemente no
• Portuguese (BR): infelizmente não - receio que não
• Portuguese (PT): infelizmente não - receio que não
• Chinese (Simplified): 恐怕不是 - 恐怕不能
• Chinese (Traditional): 恐怕不是 - 恐怕不能
• Hindi: माफ़ कीजिए, नहीं
• Arabic: للأسف لا - أخشى أن لا
• Bengali: ক্ষমা করবেন, পারছি না - দুঃখিত, সম্ভব নয়
• Russian: боюсь, нет
• Japanese: 残念ですが、できません - あいにくですが、無理です
• Vietnamese: e ngại là không - tiếc là không
• Korean: 미안하지만 안 돼요 - 죄송하지만 어렵겠어요
• Turkish: maalesef hayır - üzgünüm, olmaz
• Urdu: افسوس کے ساتھ نہیں
• Indonesian: maaf, tidak bisa - takutnya tidak

Example Sentences

"Can you help me tomorrow?" "Afraid not. I’m busy."

basic

I asked if she had the ticket, but she said, "Afraid not."

basic

Is the store open today? Afraid not.

basic

I wish I could join you, but afraid not this time.

natural

You looking for Joe? Afraid not, haven’t seen him all day.

natural

Would you mind waiting another hour? Afraid not, I have to go.

natural