I prefer not to comment

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "I prefer not to comment" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used in situations where one does not want to offer an opinion or statement on a certain topic. Example: When asked for her opinion on the controversial issue, the politician replied, "I prefer not to comment at this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The others, I prefer not to comment.

The New York Times

A I prefer not to comment on that.

The New York Times

I prefer not to comment on this issue.

Forbes

He told BBC Sport: "I prefer not to comment on the move.

BBC

"For now we cannot share any new product details so I prefer not to comment on that," Robichaud said.

TechCrunch

I prefer not to comment".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Is that true? A. I'd prefer not to comment on it.

The New York Times

Mr Gotti Tedeschi, made a brief but ominous statement: "I'd prefer not to comment, otherwise I would have some very unpleasant things to say.

Independent

Asked about Ms. Lonergan's account, Mr. Kasher, who has represented sales of vintage prints from several important archives, including that of The New York Times and the National Geographic Society, would say only, "I'd prefer not to comment because I don't know all the facts".

The New York Times - Arts

Journalist: "Can you just clarify, surely that's not an operational secret is it, how many people are still being detained?" Colvin: "I'd prefer not to comment about numbers, I'm sorry".

The Guardian

While I appreciate the level of media interest in this story I would prefer not to comment any further, thanks". Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley wished Sears all the best in his recovery.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I prefer not to comment" when you want to politely decline to give an opinion or information without being confrontational. It's suitable for sensitive or controversial topics.

Common error

Avoid using "I prefer not to comment" excessively, as it can make you seem evasive or uncooperative. Instead, consider providing a brief explanation for your silence, if appropriate, or redirect the conversation to a related, less sensitive topic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I prefer not to comment" serves as a polite and formal way to decline offering an opinion or providing information on a specific subject. It functions as a declarative statement expressing a choice to remain silent. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriate use.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I prefer not to comment" is a grammatically correct and polite way to decline offering an opinion or providing information, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its usage is most common in News & Media and Science, with a neutral to professional register. Ludwig AI underscores that while effective for avoiding sensitive topics, overuse can seem evasive. Alternatives like "no comment" or "I'm unable to comment on that" may be suitable depending on the context. Ultimately, this phrase provides a means of remaining silent without being overtly confrontational.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

No comment

A more concise and direct way of declining to comment.

I'd rather not say

Uses 'rather' instead of 'prefer', slightly more informal.

I decline to answer

Formal and direct refusal to provide an answer.

I'm unable to comment on that

Emphasizes inability, often due to policy or lack of information.

I have no comment at this time

Indicates that a comment may be possible in the future.

It would be inappropriate for me to comment

Suggests that commenting would violate propriety or protocol.

I'm not at liberty to say

Indicates a restriction preventing comment, rather than preference.

I'm not prepared to discuss that

Suggests a lack of readiness or willingness to engage in the topic.

I'm going to pass on that question

Informal way to decline answering a question directly.

My lips are sealed

Informal, often playful, way of indicating secrecy or unwillingness to talk.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says, "I prefer not to comment"?

Saying "I prefer not to comment" indicates that the speaker chooses not to provide an opinion or statement on a particular subject, often due to its sensitivity or potential for controversy.

What can I say instead of "I prefer not to comment"?

Alternatives include "no comment", "I'd rather not say", or "I'm unable to comment on that" depending on the specific context.

Is it rude to say "I prefer not to comment"?

While not inherently rude, using "I prefer not to comment" can be perceived as evasive. It's often better to offer a brief explanation or redirect the conversation if possible.

When is it appropriate to use "I prefer not to comment"?

It is appropriate when you lack sufficient information, the topic is confidential, commenting could be harmful, or you simply wish to avoid getting involved in a controversy.