Inviting someone, or saying no to an invitation, is a delicate moment in any language. Many learners translate directly and say "Come to my house on Saturday" (which can sound like an order) or "No, I can't" (which can sound cold). Others hear "We should get together sometime!" and wait for a date that never comes. In this episode: • Inviting and suggesting • Accepting • Saying no kindly • Following up so it isn't vague • Changing plans politely • Practice • Self-check questions with answers Key phrases from this episode: Fancy a coffee? — would you like to get a coffee? (casual, very British) Fancy coming to the park? — would you like to come? (casual) Do you want to come round on Saturday? — visit my home (casual) Are you free on Friday? — checking before you invite (neutral) How about a walk? — a suggestion (neutral) You should come! — warm encouragement (casual) We're having a few people round. — a small gathering at home (casual) Would you like to join us for lunch? — a polite invitation (polite) I'd love to! — warm yes (neutral) Sounds lovely. — yes, that's a nice idea (neutral) Sounds good. — yes (casual) Go on then. — okay, you've persuaded me (casual, very British) Count me in. — I'll be there (casual) What time? / What can I bring? — friendly follow-ups (neutral) I'd love to, but... — warm start to a no (polite) I'd love to, but I've got the kids' swimming. — no, with a reason I'm afraid I can't make it. — sorry, I can't come (polite) I'll have to give it a miss this time. — not this time (casual) Can we do another time? — let's choose a new date (neutral) Real British English: the complete spoken course for learners worldwide — modern British accent, everyday grammar, phrasal verbs, idioms, slang, he/she/it for things, and real conversations at home. Listen, repeat out loud, then take the 52-question quiz. Audio voiced with AI from an original script by Dr. Rashmi R Nair.