CELPIP Speaking Task 6 vocabulary

The words and phrases

I completely understand, but

Shows sympathy before politely disagreeing or refusing.
Example: I completely understand, but I really can't take another shift this weekend.

I'm really sorry, but

Softens bad news or a refusal with a sincere apology.
Example: I'm really sorry, but I won't be able to drive you to the airport on Friday.

I wish I could, but

Refuses kindly by showing you would like to help.
Example: I wish I could, but I've already promised to help my brother move that day.

I'm not in a position to

A polite, formal way to say you are unable to do something.
Example: I'm not in a position to lend money right now, but I can help you make a budget.

I know this isn't what you wanted to hear

Prepares the listener for disappointing news with empathy.
Example: I know this isn't what you wanted to hear, but the trip will have to wait until spring.

it's not that I don't want to

Explains that you refuse because of circumstances, not lack of interest.
Example: It's not that I don't want to come; my daughter is sick and needs me at home.

please don't take this the wrong way

Warns the listener that you are about to say something sensitive.
Example: Please don't take this the wrong way, but I'd rather keep my evenings free for now.

I hope you understand

Asks for acceptance after explaining a difficult decision.
Example: I hope you understand that I need to put my family first this month.

I'm in a bit of a bind

Says you have a problem that makes it hard to do what was asked.
Example: I'm in a bit of a bind this weekend, so I can't watch the kids after all.

I feel terrible about

Shows strong regret about a situation or mistake.
Example: I feel terrible about breaking your favourite mug, and I'd like to replace it.

here's what I can do

Moves from a refusal to a helpful alternative.
Example: Here's what I can do: I'll pick up your mail and check on your cat every second day.

instead, I could

Offers a different kind of help when you cannot do what was asked.
Example: Instead, I could help you find a reliable mover through the neighbourhood group.

what if we

Suggests a compromise that both people might accept.
Example: What if we split the cost of the repair and share the snowblower?

would it help if I

Offers a specific kind of support in a considerate way.
Example: Would it help if I called the school and explained the situation myself?

I don't want to let you down

Shows you care about the person and value their trust.
Example: I don't want to let you down, so I'm telling you now instead of cancelling later.

I promise I'll

Gives a sincere commitment to make things right later.
Example: I promise I'll make it to your next game, no matter what.

Put them to work on Task 6

Practise Task 6 on the test screen, or see how Task 6 works.