Leider nicht
Example: Ich kann leider nicht zu deinem Geburtstag kommen.
Definition
"Leider nicht" is a German expression used to politely indicate that something is unfortunately not possible or cannot be done, often conveying regret or disappointment. For example, in the sentence "Ich kann leider nicht zu deinem Geburtstag kommen," it means "I unfortunately cannot come to your birthday."
Translations
-
unfortunately not -
por desgracia no -
helaas niet -
malauradament no -
malheureusement non
Etymology
The phrase "leider nicht" combines the German word "leider," meaning "unfortunately," and "nicht," meaning "not." Together, they form a common expression of polite refusal or regret. Did you know? "Leider" comes from the Old High German "līdar," related to sorrow, which explains its use in conveying regret.
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"Leider nicht" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 107 commonly used expressions.
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