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Phrase(s): I’ll have to beg off.
Fig. a polite expression used to turn down an informal invitation. • Andrew: Thank you for inviting me, but I’ll have to beg off. I have a conf lict. Henry: I’m sorry to hear that. Maybe some other time. • Bill: Do you think you can come to the party? Bob: I’ll have to beg off. I have another engagement. Bill: Maybe some other time.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs