How to Say No to a Drink (2024)

Students say no to drinks all the time whether it's because they don't drink at all, they aren't drinking that night, or they are pacing themselves and in between drinks when offered one.

It can feel rude or unfriendly to say no when someone offers a drink, but you can say no to a drink. People should respect your choice.

However, if you feel uncomfortable saying, "I don't drink", or you worry that might solicit additional questions, check out this video for some creative ways Princeton studentsrefuse a drink.

You can also hold a cup with water or mixer in it and most people will leave you alone. But if someone is still bothering you about it, you can say any of the following:

  • "I have an early morning tomorrow."
  • "I want to take it easy tonight."
  • "I have too much to do tomorrow."

You can also distract the person by changing the subject, suggesting that you go do something else, or saying you need to go to the bathroom.

If you say no to a drink, some people might ask you why you're not drinking. Here are some ways to respond.

If you see someone else being pressured to drink, you can use the Three Ds.You can directly tell the person doing the pressuring that it's not cool. You can ask one of their friends to ask them to stop. Or you can distract everyone from the situation by inviting the person being pressured to dance, to come with you to the restroom or to head somewhere else away from the person doing the pressuring.

How to Say No to a Drink (2024)

FAQs

How to Say No to a Drink? ›

There's absolutely nothing wrong with not wanting to drink alcohol, and you shouldn't feel pressured to do so from anyone - strangers, friends, or family. You should politely demur when asked to drink something you don't want, and just say that you don't like the taste. If they insist, then simply refuse.

How do you say no when offered a drink? ›

Here are five excuses you can use if you don't fancy telling someone you're alcohol-free for the month:
  1. Offer to drive.
  2. Tell everyone you're not drinking because you want to go hard at the (outdoor) gym tomorrow.
  3. Take control of the bottle – if you're pouring the drinks, no one will notice you're not having any yourself.

How to politely decline a drink? ›

Consider a sequence like this:
  1. No, thank you.
  2. No, thanks, I don't want to.
  3. You know, I'm (cutting back/not drinking) now (to get healthier/to take care of myself/because my doctor said to). I'd really appreciate it if you'd help me out.

How do you say no to going out for drinks? ›

How to Say No to a Drink
  1. "I have an early morning tomorrow."
  2. "I want to take it easy tonight."
  3. "I have too much to do tomorrow."

How to politely decline a drink at a bar? ›

16 Ways to Say "No"
  1. Be honest.
  2. “I'm the designated driver.”
  3. “No, thanks. I'm good.”
  4. Drink a mocktail instead.
  5. “I'm on a cleanse.”
  6. “I have an early morning.”
  7. Pretend that you're drinking.
  8. Blame it on the night before.
Mar 23, 2023

Is it rude to say no to alcohol? ›

There's absolutely nothing wrong with not wanting to drink alcohol, and you shouldn't feel pressured to do so from anyone - strangers, friends, or family. You should politely demur when asked to drink something you don't want, and just say that you don't like the taste. If they insist, then simply refuse.

How do you say no when you feel pressured? ›

When Saying "No"
  1. Be firm—not defensive or overly apologetic—and polite. This gives the signal that you are sympathetic, but will not easily change your mind if pressured.
  2. Be clear. If you decide to tell the person you'll get back to them, be matter-of-fact and noncommittal. ...
  3. Skip excuses.
Dec 6, 2023

What is one word for abstaining from alcohol? ›

Teetotalism is the practice or promotion of total personal abstinence from the consumption of alcohol, specifically in alcoholic drinks. A person who practices (and possibly advocates) teetotalism is called a teetotaler or teetotaller, or is simply said to be teetotal.

How do you say no alcohol on an invitation? ›

"Try phrasing it in an informative and inviting way, such as: 'We are delighted to share this special day with you and kindly ask that no alcoholic beverages are brought to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for all of us,'" she suggests.

How do you say no alcohol gift? ›

The best way to politely deny a gift is to simply say, “This is thoughtful, however I don't drink. Thank you anyway.” …of course the more professional response would be, “Thank you so very much for thinking of me!” and then keep it intact to re-gift to someone else, later.

How do you say no alcohol at an event? ›

10 Ways to Say No to Alcohol at a Party
  1. Change the Subject. ...
  2. Cover Your Glass. ...
  3. Ask for a Soda or Juice. ...
  4. Tell Them You Aren't Drinking Today. ...
  5. Say You Are on Medication. ...
  6. You're Driving! ...
  7. Bring a Sober Friend. ...
  8. Just Say No.

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