French phrase
Je crains que ~ ne soit pas possible.
Meaning
I am afraid that ___ may not be possible.
When to use it
A polite way to say that something may be impossible. It softens a negative response and leaves room for alternatives.
Example dialogue
Je crains que la réduction du budget ne soit pas possible.
I am afraid that a budget reduction may not be possible.
Il faudra revoir les priorités.
We will have to review our priorities.