Portuguese Phrase
Desculpa, não posso. Já tenho planos.
Meaning
This phrase is a polite and direct way to decline an invitation or request in Portuguese. It acknowledges the offer with an apology and provides a general reason without needing to go into specific details.
When to use
Use this phrase when someone invites you to an event, meeting, or social gathering that you are unable to attend. It is suitable for friends, colleagues, and casual acquaintances.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Desculpanão possoJátenho planos
Poder (posso)
The verb 'poder' means 'to be able to'. 'Posso' is the first-person singular present tense form.
Já
This adverb means 'already' and is used here to emphasize that the schedule is already occupied.
🗨In Conversation
Você quer ir ao cinema hoje à noite?
Do you want to go to the movies tonight?
Desculpa, não posso. Já tenho planos.
Sorry, I can't. I already have plans.
✕Common Mistakes
Desculpa, não posso. Eu tenho planos.
While technically correct, native speakers usually omit the pronoun 'Eu' because the verb 'tenho' already indicates the first person.
Desculpa, não posso. Eu sou ocupado.
Avoid using 'ser' for temporary states of being busy; use 'estar' or simply state that you have plans.
↔Alternatives
Infelizmente, não vai dar.
Unfortunately, it won't work out.
Fica para a próxima.
Maybe next time.
Cultural Tip
In Portuguese-speaking cultures, it is common to soften a refusal with a word like 'Desculpa' or 'Infelizmente'. Providing a vague reason like 'planos' is a socially acceptable way to say no without being overly blunt.