Japanese phrase
すみません、今回は参加できません。 su mi ma se n kon kai wa san ka de ki ma se n
Meaning
Sorry, but I cannot join this time.
When to use it
Politely declines an invitation for the current occasion. It sounds gentle and natural in everyday conversation, especially with friends or acquaintances.
Example dialogue
週末の集まりに参加しませんか？ shū matsu no atsu ma ri ni san ka shi ma se n ka
Would you like to join the gathering this weekend?
すみません、今回は参加できません。 su mi ma se n kon kai wa san ka de ki ma se n
Sorry, but I cannot join this time.