How to Say ‘Unfortunately not.’ in German
Leider nicht.
LY-der nikht
[LY-der nikht]
💬 Usage Tip: Short, natural reply when a suggested time doesn't work. Very useful survival phrase.
🇩🇪 In Germany: This sounds polite and normal, not harsh. Perfect for declining an offered slot.
Phrase Breakdown
Leider
[LY-der]
unfortunately
Used politely before refusing or saying no.
Leider passt der Termin morgen nicht.
Unfortunately, the appointment tomorrow doesn’t work.
nicht
[nikht]
not
Used here to politely say that something does not work.
Leider nicht, ich habe schon einen anderen Termin.
Unfortunately not, I already have another appointment.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Berlin bureaucracy requires real German. This app got me from zero to handling my Anmeldung appointment in three weeks. My coworkers couldn’t believe it.”
Emma L., 27, UX Researcher
“Relocated to Munich with my family. The everyday scenarios — grocery shopping, doctor visits, school meetings — are exactly what we needed to settle in.”
Marcus J., 40, Engineer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager