If somebody invites you but you can’t go or don’t want to go, do you owe them an explanation?

Answer 1

Just a simple no with overtures of regrets-"So sorry, no I cannot attend".

Answer 2

No obligation to provide an explanation when turning down an invitation and ultimately comes down to personal choice, and what feels right for the individual.

Answer 3

Whenever I must decline an invitation, I say "Thank you very much for the invitation, but I will be unable to attend due to
previously made personal plans." This polite way to decline an invitation has not lead to further questions.

Answer 4

No, but soften it with "I'd love a rain check,though".

Answer 5

i dont think so, just tell them you cant go

Answer 6

Obviously it depends on who asks you, and what the whole situation is. But if it's someone you don't know very well, it's perfectly OK to say, 'Oh, I'm so sorry but I'm doing something else that evening' and leave it at that.

Answer 7

Maybe it's enough to be really "vague" and let them assume that you are busy with something else.
If you apologize, they can read some of that in your demeanor and air.

Answer 8

"I would love to come but unfortunately I have a prior commitment / previous engagement that day" is perfectly acceptable. You do not need to go into further detail. Let them know as soon as the invitation arrives, don't leave it til the last minute and don't agree to come then either not show up or call and say you are not coming just before the event.

Answer 9

No

Answer 10

No you’re free to choose wether to go somewhere or not and you can simply tell them that you won’t be there and no furthur explanation is needed!