Q&A for How to Decline an Unwanted Invitation to Someone's House

Tell them that you aren't really up for whatever they are doing. You could tell them that you already have plans, you're tired, or you just really aren't interested.

Just tell them, in no uncertain terms, dinner is not going to happen.

I use “Thanks very much, but I have plans”, or “That won’t work for me this time”, and continue with the conversation. If they ask why, just repeat what you’ve already said without giving a reason. Most people will stop asking after a couple of times. Do not be apologetic. You have the right to spend your time as you please. It may feel awkward at first, but it gets easier with practice, and people will respect you more.

You say, "Sorry, but I have to (insert activity that sounds realistic)."

If you value this person, you might want to make the effort to spend time with them, even if you don't want to. If not, just politely decline or ignore the invitation.

This situation is both annoying and awkward, especially when the neighbor is persistent or you keep running into them, like when out walking your dog. The best thing to do is to keep giving the exact same answer every time they ask. For example: “Thanks for the offer but I’m afraid it’s just not possible right now. I’m sorry. Well, I have to get going now!” . Smile semi-sympathetically and move on. If you keep giving the exact same answer, eventually they’ll get the message. Also try to avoid them if possible––good fences make good neighbors!

You would decline an invitation the same way as declining for any reason but you do not say the reason is because the place is dirty. Instead, simply say something like, "I would love to come but I am otherwise engaged at that time and cannot make it." However, if you keep being asked to the place, you might want to make a gentle suggestion about meeting somewhere else instead, perhaps saying something like, "It would be easier for me to meet you in the middle, such as X cafe, to save driving so far." Or, "I am sorry but I have a dog allergy and can't come but I could meet you at X cafe instead if you'd like."

You could say something like, "Thanks for the invitation, that was very kind of you but I can't make that arrangement. I am not inclined to attend lunch events, I am always too busy preparing my work for meetings/the afternoon, etc. Thanks for thinking of me though."

Provide good reasons for why they should choose to come to your house instead. You could mention activities you have at your house, like a fun video game or pets they might enjoy. Encouraging them to come over isn't rude, even if they insist you go to theirs. Listing reasons for them to visit you can make your preference clear.

This may work, but it's not a direct way to decline the invitation. It's better to be honest with both the inviter and yourself.

Express your appreciation for the invitation and mention that you may be too busy to commit to another visit. You can also gently ask if she has a lot on her plate, indicating understanding of her busy schedule as well.

You could say you have an online book club meeting or any kind of club. If they ask for more details or want to join, you can say it's a family-only event.

Keep your response brief, and if necessary, leave the situation. If the person continues to bother you, consider filing a harassment report.

Say: "I appreciate the compliments, but I have to stick to my principles. No matter how many times they try, my answer remains the same. Let’s keep things cool and move forward!"