VOA一分钟英语：英国人通常如何礼貌地说 “no”？

英国人在日常口语交流中，并不习惯直接用单词 “no” 去拒绝他人的要求或邀请。他们通常会选择更含蓄的方式委婉地表达自己的态度。
 
Hi, I'm Phil and I'm going to tell you a little secret about British people. And it's that we're not great at saying no.
So if you want to say no like a Brit, remember not to be too direct.
We don't actually like saying no, so start by saying how bad it is, or apologise.
Unfortunately…
I'm afraid…
Sorry, but…
OK, so now they know you don't want to do it, tell them why you have to do this terrible thing.
Unfortunately, I'm not able to come tonight.
I'm afraid that's not possible.
Sorry, but I don't think that's a good idea.
OK, now the bad stuff is out of the way, suggest an alternative.
Unfortunately, I'm not able to come tonight. Let's try next week!
I'm afraid that's not possible, but I've got another idea.
So – just remember, not too direct, apologise, say why and suggest an alternative.
 
用法总结
英国人为了礼貌地拒绝别人，常使用这样的表达结构：
1. 道歉 （对不起……不好意思……真不巧……）
2. 陈述拒绝的原因 （我不能……我没法……这不行）
3. 给对方一个替代方案（改天……找别人……我有其它主意……）