I'm afraid

I’m afraid spoken phrase

used for politely telling someone something that might make them sad, disappointed, or angry, for example when you cannot do what they want or do not agree with them

Things haven’t been going very well here, I’m afraid.

I’m afraid (that):

I’m afraid that I can’t accept this job.

I’m afraid to say (that):

I’m afraid to say I found the book very dull.

I’m afraid so:

‘Did he forget to do it?’ ‘I’m afraid so.’

I’m afraid not:

‘Will John be there?’ ‘I’m afraid not.’

Thesaurus: ways of saying you are sorry or regret something_synonym

Main entry: afraid

* * *

[with clause] used to express polite or formal apology or regret

I'm afraid I don't understand

* * *

I'm afraid idiom

used as a polite way of telling sb sth that is unpleasant or disappointing, or that you are sorry about

•

I can't help you, I'm afraid.

•

I'm afraid we can't come.

•

I'm afraid that it's not finished yet.

•

He's no better,

I'm afraid to say

.

•

‘Is there any left?’ ‘

I'm afraid not

.’

•

‘Will it hurt?’ ‘

I'm afraid so

.’

Main entry: ↑afraid_idiom