non désolé
The English phrase "no sorry" is translated into French as non désolé.
The phrase non désolé is a polite way to refuse a request or say no to an invitation. It is used to soften a refusal, making it sound less blunt or rude than simply saying non.
Which one should you use?
While non alone is a neutral way to say no, using it without désolé can come across as abrupt or dismissive depending on the context.
Did you know?
- To avoid the heaviness of désolé in casual settings, French speakers often use Ah non, merci to soften the blow of a refusal.
- To avoid the implication that you have committed a mistake or a wrong, use Je ne peux pas rather than désolé. Using 'sorry' can accidentally suggest you are apologizing for a fault rather than just stating a fact.
- The word non is a direct descendant of the Latin nōn, meaning it has maintained nearly the exact same form and meaning for over two thousand years.
Example conversation
Gabriel invites Manon to go to the cinema.
- GabrielTu veux aller au cinéma ce soir ?Do you want to go to the cinema tonight?
- ManonNon désolé, je dois travailler.No sorry, I have to work.
- GabrielC'est dommage, une prochaine fois alors.That's a shame, another time then.
- ManonOui, on s'appelle demain !Yes, let's call each other tomorrow!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries non, CC BY-SA 4.0.
