Beg off Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Polite Refusal Used to politely decline an invitation or request without causing offense. Thanks for the invite, but I must beg off this time. Pro Tip 2/3Slightly Formal More formal than outright saying 'no', but still casual enough for everyday use. May I beg off assisting with the event? I'm overcommitted already. Pro Tip 3/3Implies Commitment Often suggests that you were expected to attend or participate in something. I know I promised to help, but I'll have to beg off.