expression, godan verb (-ru)
decline politely; refuse gracefully; turn down without offending
Used when refusing an invitation, request, or offer in a way that preserves the relationship and avoids hurting feelings. Often implies using a tactful excuse or pretext.
飲み会の誘いを体よく断った。
I politely declined the invitation to the drinking party.
彼はいつも体よく断るのが上手だ
He is always good at turning people down gracefully.