How to Avoid Answering Sensitive Questions [Updated]

Has anyone ever asked you a question you didn't want to answer?

Maybe the question was too personal or the answer was too embarrassing for you to say.  

Most people have probably been in a situation like this, either at work, at a social event or even with friends. So how can you respond to these questions in English?

Saying “No”

In most situations, you should not have to give information you're uncomfortable giving. The most direct way to do this is to simply refuse to answer the question. However, you can still do this politely with the phrases below.

I'm sorry, but I'd prefer not to say.

I'm sorry, but I don't want to share that information.

I don't mean to be rude, but I don't want to answer that question.

In more casual situations, you can replace "I'm sorry" with "No offense."

No offense, but I'd rather not say.

Related article: "No Way, José!" Other Ways to Say "No"

Being Vague

Another way to deal with unwanted questions is to reveal only some information. This is called being "vague," which means "unclear or uncertain."

Expressions like "Let's just say ~" and "All I will say ~" are common ways to be vague in both formal and informal situations.

In some cultures, it's impolite to ask about money. With this response, Nelly has given Don some information without saying the exact price of the jacket.

Joe's vague response lets Sam know the negotiation was successful without sharing important business details that may be private.

In addition to your vague answer, you can change the subject by adding a comment or question of your own. For example:

Let's just say it cost more than my old one. By the way, that's a nice jacket you're wearing.

All I will say is that both sides are happy with the result. Anyway, how is business with you?

Returning the Question

Instead of refusing to answer or being vague, you can ask the other person why they want this information from you. Be sure to do this with a smile and polite tone of voice.

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In some cases, the other person may realize that their question was too sensitive or personal. However, this doesn't always happen!

If they still expect you to answer their question, you can use one of the strategies from earlier in the article as a response.

How to Politely Ask Your Own Questions

Now, let's look at some ways to ask questions that don't make others uncomfortable. If you aren't sure if a question is too sensitive, try starting with one of the following phrases:

Do you mind if I ask you a personal question?

I hope I'm not being rude by asking you …

Is it OK if I ask you about …?

With these expressions, you make it easier for your conversation partner to refuse if they don't want to answer.

Wrap-up

Learning how to avoid difficult or inappropriate questions is a useful communication skill in any language. With the expressions we’ve introduced here, you can politely let the other person know that you'd like to keep some things private.

• other ways to say
• politeness