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decline to do something
/dɪˈklaɪn tuː duː ˈsʌmθɪŋ/
politely refuse to do something
She declined to answer the question.
She politely refused to answer the question.
formal
To politely refuse to do something that someone has asked you to do
The CEO declined to comment on the rumors.
The CEO politely refused to comment on the rumors.
When asked to testify, the witness declined to do so.
When asked to testify, the witness politely refused to testify.
This phrase is more formal and polite than simply saying 'no' or 'refuse'. It is often used in professional or formal contexts.
Collocations
decline to commentpolitely refuse to commentdecline to participatepolitely refuse to take partdecline to answerpolitely refuse to respond
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Refusal
Use 'decline to do something' in formal or professional settings. In informal contexts, you might say 'I can't do that' or 'I'm sorry, but no'.
Gold Rule
Politeness in Refusal
Always use 'decline to do something' when you want to refuse a request politely, especially in professional or formal situations.
Word Origin
The verb 'decline' comes from the Latin 'declinare', meaning 'to bend down' or 'to turn away'. The phrase 'decline to do something' has been used in English for centuries to express a polite refusal.
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in formal or professional settings, such as business, politics, or legal contexts. It is a more polite and diplomatic way to refuse a request or invitation.
Word Breakdown
decline
to politely refuse
verbto do something
the action being refused
infinitive phraseEnglish Dictionary