Fraid not Meaning in English

expression · lemma: afraid not

US

UK

Definition

A very informal way to say 'I'm afraid not', used to gently or politely say 'no' or that something is not possible.

Usage & Nuances

Extremely informal; often spoken, rarely written. Shortened from 'I'm afraid not.' Used when saying 'no' in a friendly or sympathetic way. Don't use in formal situations; it can sound dismissive if tone is not gentle.

• Spanish: me temo que no - lo siento, no
• Portuguese (BR): receio que não - infelizmente não
• Portuguese (PT): receio que não - infelizmente não
• Chinese (Simplified): 恐怕不行 - 恐怕不可以
• Chinese (Traditional): 恐怕不行 - 恐怕不可以
• Hindi: माफ़ करना, नहीं
• Arabic: للأسف لا - أخشى أن لا

Example Sentences

Are you open today? 'Fraid not, we're closed on Sundays.

basic

Is there any cake left? 'Fraid not, it's all gone.

basic

Do you know if Mark is coming to the party? 'Fraid not, I haven't heard from him.

natural

I wish I could help you move, but 'fraid not, I’m busy that day.

natural

“Hey, can I borrow your bike tomorrow?” “'Fraid not. I need it for work.”

natural

— Can you stay for dinner? — 'Fraid not, I have to go home.

basic