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I'm afraid..

Phrase of the day

Discover a new phrase each day to use in your English! These are special phrases and sayings that English speakers use all the time, but you don't often see these phrases in English course books or other study material. Visit daily to learn some popular English phrases on a regular basis.

16 July 2026

I'm afraid..

We use this expression when we want to politely say something that will make other people unhappy and often disappointed. We often use this phrase before we give bad news.

Written: Yes

Spoken: Yes

Formal: No

Informal: Yes

Example 1

I’m afraid I can’t come to the football match on Saturday. My mum’s going into hospital.

Oh, what a shame. Maybe another time.

Example 2

Hi. Do you have this hat in large, please?

Um, let me check on the computer…No, I’m afraid we don’t. We can order it for you.

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May2026
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