informal10K+

UK//əˈfreɪd nɒt//US//əˈfreɪd nɑt//

Meaning of Afraid not

A phrase used to politely indicate disagreement or refusal.

In simple words: Meaning you disagree or refuse what was said.

Afraid not in a sentence

  • Can you help me with my homework?
  • Do you want to go shopping later?
  • Will you lend me your car?
  • Are you free to meet this weekend?
  • Is it okay if I join your group?

How to use Afraid not

Used mainly in casual conversation to gently say 'no'. Avoid in formal situations.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Imagine someone afraid to say yes, shaking their head.

Related words

Collocations with Afraid not

Synonyms for Afraid not

Common mistakes with Afraid not

  • Confused with 'I'm afraid' which is a more polite way to decline.
  • Used in overly formal contexts where it sounds inappropriate.
  • Misunderstood as a direct refusal without considering tone.

Compare Afraid not with Not really, No

Afraid not appears in

Afraid not in other languages

More chunks like Afraid not

People also search for

  • Afraid not meaning
  • meaning of Afraid not
  • Afraid not definition
  • define Afraid not
  • what does Afraid not mean
  • Afraid not means
  • how to use Afraid not

Frequently asked questions about Afraid not

What does Afraid not mean?

Meaning you disagree or refuse what was said.

What is the definition of Afraid not?

A phrase used to politely indicate disagreement or refusal.

How do you use Afraid not in a sentence?

Can you help me with my homework?

Can you give another example of Afraid not?

Do you want to go shopping later?

What are synonyms for Afraid not?

Common alternatives include not really, no, unfortunately not.

What words go with Afraid not?

It commonly pairs with afraid not, not really, unfortunately not.

What are common mistakes when using Afraid not?

Confused with 'I'm afraid' which is a more polite way to decline. Used in overly formal contexts where it sounds inappropriate. Misunderstood as a direct refusal without considering tone.

How do you pronounce Afraid not?

US: //əˈfreɪd nɑt//, UK: //əˈfreɪd nɒt//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Afraid not formal or informal?

"Afraid not" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Afraid not?

Used mainly in casual conversation to gently say 'no'. Avoid in formal situations.