I’m afraid Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Softening Disagreement Used to gently reject or oppose a suggestion without being too direct or harsh. I'm afraid I have to disagree with that idea. Pro Tip 2/3Conveying Apologies Shows that you are sorry or reluctant to convey disappointing information. I'm afraid the tickets are already sold out. Pro Tip 3/3Preceding Bad News Often signals that the speaker is about to deliver unpleasant news. I'm afraid we'll have to cancel the event.