Say what you were asked and who asked, and Hemmingway writes the no. It thanks them, says no clearly near the start, and keeps it short. You read it, change what you like, and send it yourself.
It only uses what you give it. If you leave the reason empty, it will not invent one; a polite no without a reason is fine. If you have something to offer instead, add it and it goes in.
What makes it work
Most refusals go wrong by being too long or too vague. A paragraph of sorry makes it sound like you might still be talked into it, and "let me see" leaves them waiting. This tool is set up to say no kindly and clearly.
- Describe the request exactly. "Speak at a friend's company event next month" gives it more to work with than "an event".
- Give a reason only if you want to. One true reason is enough. You do not owe a long one.
- Offer something smaller, if you mean it. A real alternative softens a no. Leave the box empty if you have none.
An example
Asked to decline a friend's request to speak at their company event next month, because you are away that week, and offering a short written piece instead, a message along these lines is what to expect:
Thank you for thinking of me. I can't speak at the event next month, as I'm away that week. I'd be happy to send a short written piece instead, if that would help.
It says no in the second sentence, and there is no "I'm so, so sorry". If you want it warmer or firmer, ask in the chat and it rewrites it.
Common questions
Is the decline message generator free?
Yes. Hemmingway has a free trial with no card needed, and this tool opens it with your answers filled in. You sign up once, and the message is written in the chat.
Can I say no without giving a reason?
Yes. Leave the reason box empty and the message will decline politely without one. It will not make a reason up for you.
Can it decline a job offer or a work request?
Yes. Put the employer or colleague as who it is to, describe the offer or request, and ask for a professional tone. For more ways to say no, see the guide on how to decline politely.
Does it send the message for me?
No. It writes the message and you send it yourself, by text, email or in person. Nothing goes to anyone from Hemmingway unless you choose to send it.