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

Answer 1

No. It's reasonable for hosts to insist on getting a headcount, but not reasonable for hosts to expect personal information like why one declines their invitation. The way to deal with rude questions about ones non-acceptance of an invitation is with vague non-informative answers.
"It's impossible."
"It simply doesn't work for me."
"I just can't."
"Regrettable, but I can't be there."
And so on.

If you're asked a question that is really really rude, a good response is "I'm sure you didn't mean that the way it sounded. I hope your party (or whatever) is a great success but I can't attend."

Or, if the question is truly insulting, "How DARE you!"

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

"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 8

No

Answer 9

Yes! I hate when people say no when I've been nice enough to ask. But only my friends I expect an answer from. Don't bother random strangers

Answer 10

No.

"I'm sorry, I won't be able to make it."