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Liveinjapan Posted 19 years ago
Grammar

can't / be unable to

Hi everyone

Is to say 'be unable to' more polite than to say 'can't'?

e.g.
I'm sorry, but I'm unable to meet you on Monday at 9 o'clock.
I'm sorry, but I can't meet you on Monday at 9 o'clock.

In buisness situation, you'd be better off saying 'I'm unable to...', right?

Thanks
LiJ
  

Top answer

Hi LiJ I'd prefer 'not be able to' and 'will': I'm sorry, but I won't be able to meet you on Monday at 9 o'clock.

— Yankee

  • Hi LiJ I'd prefer 'not be able to' and 'will': I'm sorry, but I won't be able to meet you on Monday at 9 o'clock.
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3 Answers
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Hi LiJ

I'd prefer 'not be able to' and 'will':

I'm sorry, but I won't be able to meet you on Monday at 9 o'clock.
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YankeeHi LiJ

I'd prefer 'not be able to' and 'will':

I'm sorry, but I won't be able to meet you on Monday at 9 o'clock.

I agree with our "Connecticut Yankee".
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Thank you all. Yeah, that sounds perfect!

LiJ
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