I'm afraid...

I'm afraid

I'm sorry to say. Used to politely introduce or soften a statement that may be unpleasant, upsetting, or disappointing. I'm afraid that your application has been rejected due to a failure to provide adequate documentation. I was hoping I'd be there in time to see the performance, but they canceled my flight because of the snow, I'm afraid. I'm afraid I can't help you down here. You need to visit the Treasury department on the fourth floor.

See also: afraid

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

I’m afraid (that)...

(spoken) used as a polite way of telling somebody something that is unpleasant or disappointing, or something that you are sorry about: I’m afraid I can’t come to your party. ♢ ‘Have you got change for ten pounds?’ ‘I’m afraid not.’ ♢ I’ve got some bad news, I’m afraid. ♢ ‘Is this the best you can do?’ ‘I’m afraid so.’

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017