Chinese phrase
临时取消 lín shí qǔ xiāo
Meaning
cancel at the last minute
When to use it
A plan is canceled shortly before it is due to happen. This phrase often refers to plans or arrangements and may sound apologetic when it affects other people.
Example dialogue
我们明天去看电影吧。 wǒ men míng tiān qù kàn diàn yǐng ba
Let's go see a movie tomorrow.
不好意思，我可能要临时取消，家里有事。 bù hǎo yì si wǒ kě néng yào lín shí qǔ xiāo jiā lǐ yǒu shì
Sorry, I might have to cancel at the last minute. I have something to take care of at home.