BraveSpeaking: Making Excuses (informal)

Phrase to be available to do something

are you free
Tanya: Hey, are you free right now? I have a favor to ask you.

Phrase to take a short trip to do something that needs to be done

run an errand
Tanya: Can you help me run an errand? I need to buy drinks for tonight's party.

Phrase used before giving a reason for not doing something

I would but
Theo: I would but I have nothing to wear.

Phrase a poor explanation for not doing something

a lame excuse
Tanya: That’s a lame excuse and you know it.

Phrase saying something is true (informal)

for real
Theo: No, for real. I need to do laundry.

Phrase will not require a large amount of time

won't take long
Tanya: You can wear what you have on! Anyway, this won't take long.

Phrase choose to do something a little later in time

put it off
Theo: Can we put it off until after my favorite TV show? It'll be over in an hour...

Phrase stop creating reasons to not do something (informal)

quit stalling
Tanya: Quit stalling, are you with me or not?

Phrase used to express agreement

alright
Theo: Oh alright, I'm coming. I just need to put on my shoes.

Phrase used to thank someone and say you'll do something in return later

I owe you one
Tanya: Thanks, this is a big help! I owe you one.