Declining a Snack Politely
A colleague has offered you a snack, but you are not hungry, have dietary restrictions, or simply don't want any. You need to decline politely without offending them.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
thoughtful
Thoughtful means kind and considerate, showing you care about others. Use it to thank someone for a nice gesture, like offering food.
homemade
Homemade means made at home, not bought in a store. It's often used to describe food that's fresh and personal.
pass
To pass means to decline or say no politely, like 'I'll pass on the offer.' It's casual and friendly for refusing without offending.
delicious
Delicious means very tasty and enjoyable to eat. Use it to compliment food even if you're not eating it.
no worries
No worries is a casual way to say 'it's okay' or 'don't worry about it.' It's reassuring and common in friendly conversations.
anytime
Anytime means 'whenever you want' or 'you're welcome at any time.' It's used to show openness for future offers or help.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Hey Michael, I brought some cookies if you want one.
This is a casual way to offer food to a colleague. 'If you want one' makes it optional and polite. Use it to share snacks at work without pressure.
Oh, thanks, Sarah! That's really thoughtful of you.
This expresses appreciation for the offer. 'That's really thoughtful' highlights the kindness. It's useful to respond positively before deciding.
They sound delicious, but I think I'll pass for now. I just had a big lunch.
This politely declines the snack. 'I'll pass for now' is a soft refusal, and giving a reason like 'I just had a big lunch' keeps it friendly. Use it when you're not hungry.
No worries at all. Maybe later then?
This accepts the decline gracefully. 'No worries' reassures the person, and 'Maybe later then?' keeps the door open. It's great for maintaining good relationships.
Yeah, perhaps! Thanks again for offering.
This is a polite follow-up to a decline. 'Yeah, perhaps' shows openness without committing, and repeating thanks is courteous. Use it to end positively.
Anytime! Just let me know.
This invites future requests. 'Anytime' means always available, and 'Just let me know' is simple and encouraging. It's useful for ongoing friendliness at work.