10 Phrases to Say “Not Now”
Knowing how to say “not now” politely is a super useful skill in English! Sometimes you’re busy, tired, or just not in the mood—but you still want to be kind and respectful. Using the same blunt phrase (“Not now!”) can sound rude or impatient, so learning softer, more natural alternatives will help you keep conversations friendly and clear. Let’s explore 10 helpful ways to say “not now” in everyday English.
Common Ways to Say “Not Now”
Polite & Neutral
- I’m a bit tied up right now. A gentle way to say you’re busy without shutting someone down.
I’d love to chat later—I’m a bit tied up right now. - Can we talk in a little while? Friendly and cooperative—you’re not refusing, just asking to delay.
Can we talk in a little while? I’m finishing an important email. - I’m not in a position to right now. Formal and respectful—great for work or serious requests.
I appreciate the offer, but I’m not in a position to help right now. - This isn’t the best time for me. Honest but kind—it focuses on timing, not rejection.
Thanks for inviting me, but this isn’t the best time for me.
Casual & Common
- Let’s catch up later! Warm and upbeat—softens the “not now” with future interest.
I’m heading out the door, but let’s catch up later! - I’m swamped at the moment. A common idiom meaning “very busy”—perfect for informal chats.
Sorry, I can’t join the call—I’m swamped at the moment. - Maybe another time? Light and open-ended—keeps the door open for the future.
“Want to grab coffee?” “I’m tired—maybe another time?” - I’ll have to pass for now. Polite way to decline gently while leaving room for later.
That sounds fun, but I’ll have to pass for now.
Playful & Expressive
- My plate’s full right now! A fun idiom—like your “plate” is full of tasks—so you can’t take on more.
I’d help if I could, but my plate’s full right now! - Not right this second! 😅 Cheerful and honest—with a smiley, it’s clearly not rude.
“Can you check this file?” “Not right this second! Give me five minutes.”
Real-Life Dialogues
Tom: Hey, do you have a minute to look at this report?
Leela: I’m a bit tied up right now—can we talk in a little while?
Tom: Sure thing! No rush.
Maya: Want to watch a movie tonight?
Jamal: I’m swamped with homework—but maybe another time?
Maya: Totally understand!
Ravi: Can you help me move this weekend?
Sofia: My plate’s full right now—but I’ll have to pass for now.
Ravi: No worries! I’ll ask someone else.
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
| At work or with someone senior | “I’m not in a position to right now” or “This isn’t the best time” | Professional and respectful—avoids sounding dismissive. |
| With friends or family | “I’m swamped” or “My plate’s full!” | Casual and relatable—keeps the mood light. |
| When you want to say yes later | “Maybe another time?” or “Let’s catch up later!” | Shows you care—you’re just not available *now*. |
Practice Tip
Next time someone asks you for something and you’re not ready, try one of these phrases instead of just saying “Not now.” It turns a small “no” into a kind “not yet.”
Why This Matters
- Saying “not now” politely protects your time while keeping relationships positive.
- It shows emotional intelligence—you’re honest without being harsh.
- These phrases are used daily in work, family, and social life—mastering them builds real-world fluency.
You now have 10 kind, clear, and natural ways to say “not now” in English! Try one today in a text, call, or face-to-face chat. Remember: it’s not about refusing—it’s about communicating with care. Happy learning! 😊
