I don't want to upset you, but

I don't want to upset you, but

A phrase used before sharing bad news (which is stated after "but"). I don't want to upset you, but the printer called about a few problems with our latest issue. I don't want to upset you, but the dog has been limping around all day—I think we need to take him to the vet tonight.

See also: but, to, upset, want

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.