declining to comment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "declining to comment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone chooses not to provide a statement or opinion on a particular issue or question. Example: "The spokesperson was declining to comment on the ongoing investigation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'm just declining to comment".

The New York Times

Besides, what's wrong with declining to comment?

The Guardian - Opinion

"I'm very happy," she said, declining to comment further.

The New York Times

Praise God," he said, before declining to comment further.

The Guardian

Mr. Adler said he had nothing to do with his daughter's appointment, declining to comment further.

The New York Times

"China Gas has growth potential," it said, declining to comment on share purchases by other investors.

The New York Times

"This really did throw me for a loop," he said, declining to comment further.

The New York Times

MONTCLAIR, N.J. — They skulked in and out like criminals, shoulders hunched, heads down, declining to comment.

The New York Times

While declining to comment further, Higgins acknowledged that travel could take a physical and mental toll.

The New York Times - Sports

"As yet, there is no settlement," he said, declining to comment further.

The New York Times

Lythgoe said his own contract is under negotiation, declining to comment further.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "declining to comment" when you want to indicate a neutral refusal to provide information, often to avoid speculation or legal issues. It's more formal than simply saying "no comment".

Common error

Avoid using "declining to comment" excessively, as it can make the speaker appear evasive. Consider providing a brief, neutral statement when appropriate to maintain transparency and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "declining to comment" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present participle phrase acting as a gerund. It typically modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating the act of refusing to provide an opinion or statement. Ludwig shows numerous instances where individuals or organizations use this phrase in response to inquiries.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "declining to comment" is a very common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to indicate a refusal to provide information or an opinion, as confirmed by Ludwig. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to manage information flow, avoid speculation, or prevent legal complications. While alternatives like "refusing to answer" and "offering no statement" exist, this phrase carries a slightly more formal and considered tone than a simple "no comment". It's crucial to use it judiciously to avoid appearing evasive and maintain transparency when possible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

refusing to answer

This alternative indicates a direct refusal to respond to a question.

withholding comment

This implies a deliberate holding back of information or opinion.

choosing not to respond

This alternative emphasizes the deliberate decision to stay silent.

remaining silent

This focuses on the act of not speaking or providing information.

passing on commenting

Suggests a polite refusal to give an opinion.

not willing to discuss

This suggests a reluctance to engage in conversation about a particular topic.

not providing details

Focuses on the lack of specific information being shared.

offering no statement

This highlights the absence of an official or formal comment.

evading the question

Implies actively avoiding a direct answer.

keeping mum

This is a more informal way of saying someone is keeping quiet.

FAQs

How to use "declining to comment" in a sentence?

You can use "declining to comment" when a person or organization is unwilling or unable to provide a statement on a particular matter. For example, "The spokesperson was declining to comment on the ongoing investigation."

What can I say instead of "declining to comment"?

You can use alternatives like "refusing to answer", "offering no statement", or "withholding comment" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "declining to comment"?

It's appropriate to use "declining to comment" when you or your organization cannot provide information due to legal reasons, ongoing investigations, or strategic considerations. It signals a respectful yet firm refusal to engage further.

Is "declining to comment" the same as "no comment"?

While similar, "declining to comment" is slightly more formal and suggests a considered decision not to speak. "No comment" is more direct and can sometimes be perceived as curt. Both express a refusal to provide information.