I decline to answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I decline to answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you don't want to answer a certain question in a polite, formal way. For example: Q: Could you tell me how much money you make annually? A: I decline to answer that question.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

I think I decline to answer that on the ground that the answer might tend to incriminate me.

The New York Times

Instead of this, with chilly courtesy, he told Hope: "In regard to your last question, I'm afraid I decline to answer".

Independent

Q. Were you a member of the Communist Party in 1922? A. I decline to answer on the ground that the answer might tend to incriminate me.

The New York Times

When you wrote this short story, "Night Shade," were you a member of the Communist Party? A. I decline to answer on the ground the answer may tend to incriminate me.

The New York Times

Q. Are you a member of the Communist Party today? A. I decline to answer on the ground that the answer would tend to incriminate me, pleading my rights under the Fifth Amendment.

The New York Times

At a hearing in June , 1959 Kennedy demanded, "Do we have any background on Mr. Morgan?" When a Teamster official was questioned by the committee about the weapons scheme, he said, more than once, "I decline to answer because I honestly believe my answer may tend to incriminate me".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

This parent also asked a number of even more inappropriate questions that I declined to answer -- nor did I produce my daughter for a viewing.

Huffington Post

"I respectfully decline to answer that question, I'm going to stay away from that," said Kiwanuka, who is generally one of the most forthcoming Giants.

The New York Times - Sports

"Upon the advice of counsel," Cohen said, "I respectfully decline to answer the question on the ground that I'm being compelled to be a witness against myself".

The New Yorker

As a gay sex advice columnist I'm often asked about my own sexual habits, which I mercifully decline to answer.

Huffington Post

By rote but not reading, Mr. Duncan replied, "Mr. Chairman, I would like to answer the committee's questions, but on the advice of my counsel, I respectfully decline to answer the question based on the protection afforded me under the Constitution of the United States".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair this phrase with a polite tone to avoid sounding confrontational, especially when dealing with sensitive topics or individuals.

Common error

Avoid using "I decline to answer" repeatedly in informal conversations, as it can come across as evasive or distrustful. Choose a different phrasing to express your unwillingness to respond, and make it natural for that specific situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I decline to answer" functions as a declarative statement indicating a refusal to respond to a question. It serves as a way to avoid providing information for various reasons, ranging from privacy to legal considerations. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I decline to answer" is a formal way to refuse to answer a question. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It is most commonly used in news and media contexts, indicating a deliberate choice not to provide information. While grammatically sound and widely understood, overuse in informal situations might appear evasive. Consider alternatives like "I prefer not to answer that" or "no comment" depending on the setting. Remember to maintain a polite tone, even when refusing to answer, to avoid creating unnecessary conflict.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I respectfully decline to respond

A more formal and polite refusal.

I prefer not to answer that

Indicates a preference rather than a firm refusal.

I'm not at liberty to say

Suggests a restriction prevents answering.

I'm afraid I can't comment on that

A polite way of declining to comment, often used in professional settings.

That's not something I can disclose

Suggests an inability to reveal the information.

That's confidential

Indicates the information is private and cannot be shared.

I'd rather not discuss that

Expresses a desire to avoid the topic.

I'm unable to provide that information

Suggests the speaker lacks the ability to provide the answer.

No comment

A brief and direct refusal to comment.

I'm going to pass on that question

A more casual way to avoid answering.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "I decline to answer"?

It's appropriate to use "I decline to answer" in formal settings, such as legal proceedings or press conferences, when you don't want to answer a question directly. It can also be used in less formal situations where you prefer not to reveal certain information.

What does it mean when someone says "I decline to answer"?

When someone says "I decline to answer", it means they are choosing not to provide a response to a question, often due to privacy concerns, legal reasons, or a desire to avoid self-incrimination.

What are some alternative ways to say "I decline to answer"?

You can use alternatives like "I prefer not to answer that", "I'm not at liberty to say", or "no comment" depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "I decline to answer" the same as invoking the Fifth Amendment?

While both involve refusing to answer a question, invoking the Fifth Amendment is specific to legal settings and protects against self-incrimination. "I decline to answer" is a more general refusal that doesn't necessarily imply legal jeopardy.