体ていよく断ことわる

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.

• 飲のみ会かいの誘さそいを体ていよく断ことわった。

  I politely declined the invitation to the drinking party.

• 彼かれはいつも体ていよく断ことわるのが上手じょうずだ。

  He is always good at turning people down gracefully.