Are you tired of saying the same old phrase, “None of your business”? Sometimes, you need a more creative or polite way to set boundaries. Whether it’s at work, in personal conversations, or online, knowing how to steer clear of unwanted questions or conversations is a valuable skill. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of alternative phrases that are just as effective but may feel less confrontational.
From casual and clever to firm and assertive, these options give you the tools to maintain your privacy without causing tension. Keep reading to find out how you can handle those nosy moments like a pro!
Top List Of Other Ways to Say “None of Your Business”
- “I’d Rather Not Get Into That”
- “I’m Keeping That Private”
- “That’s a Personal Matter”
- “I Don’t Feel Comfortable Sharing That”
- “I’d Prefer to Keep That Between Me and [Person/Group]”
- “I Think That’s Beyond the Scope of Our Conversation”
- “I’ll Have to Decline Answering That”
- “That’s Not Something I’m Ready to Share”
- “That’s Between Me and Myself”
- “Let’s Just Leave It at That”
- “That’s for Me to Know”
- “I Don’t Owe an Explanation on That”
- “I’m Not Sure That’s Relevant Here”
- “Let’s Stay on Topic”
- “I’d Rather Not Discuss It Right Now”
- “I Don’t Think I Need to Share That”
- “I’ll Keep That to Myself”
- “That’s Not Up for Discussion”
- “That’s Not Something I’d Share”
- “I’m Going to Keep That Close to My Chest”
1. “I’d Rather Not Get Into That”
When someone pries, saying “I’d rather not get into that” can set a polite boundary without sounding harsh.
Example Email:
To: Leo Subject: Re: Your Question
Hi Leo,
Thanks for reaching out. I appreciate your curiosity, but I’d rather not get into that right now. Let’s focus on the main agenda for the time being.
Best regards, Henry
2. “I’m Keeping That Private”
This approach is straightforward and conveys that you value your privacy without elaborating.
Example Response in Person:
Leo: “Henry, why did you take the day off yesterday?” Henry: “Oh, I’m keeping that private, Leo, but thanks for asking!”
3. “That’s a Personal Matter”
For a professional yet firm response, “That’s a personal matter” subtly reminds others to respect your boundaries.
Example Chat Message:
Leo: “Did something happen between you and Alex?” Henry: “Hey Leo, that’s a personal matter, so I’d rather not discuss it.”
4. “I Don’t Feel Comfortable Sharing That”
This phrase emphasizes that the topic isn’t one you’re open to discussing.
Example Email:
To: Leo Subject: Re: Your Inquiry
Hi Leo,
I appreciate your interest, but I don’t feel comfortable sharing that information at this time. Let me know if you need any other details related to the project.
Best, Henry
5. “I’d Prefer to Keep That Between Me and [Person/Group]”
This expression hints that you’ve chosen to keep the information limited to a select group or person.
Example:
Leo: “Why didn’t you attend the team meeting?” Henry: “I’d prefer to keep that between me and the management team for now, Leo. Appreciate your understanding!”
6. “I Think That’s Beyond the Scope of Our Conversation”
This line works well in professional settings, as it smoothly shifts focus.
Example Email:
To: Leo Subject: Re: Meeting Questions
Hi Leo,
Thanks for the questions. I think that’s beyond the scope of our conversation today, but I’m more than happy to discuss any work-related topics.
All the best, Henry
7. “I’ll Have to Decline Answering That”
This is a polite way to refuse, giving no further explanation.
Example Reply:
Leo: “Is it true you’re leaving the company soon?” Henry: “I appreciate your interest, Leo, but I’ll have to decline to answer that for now.”
8. “That’s Not Something I’m Ready to Share”
When you need to express that you’re not comfortable discussing a topic, this response works well.
Example Chat:
Leo: “What’s the update on your project?” Henry: “Hey, Leo, that’s not something I’m ready to share at the moment.”
9. “That’s Between Me and Myself”
This lighthearted response sets a firm boundary while keeping the tone friendly.
Example Response:
Leo: “So, what did you think of the event?” Henry: “That’s between me and myself, Leo!”
10. “Let’s Just Leave It at That”
This suggests closing the topic without inviting further questions.
Example Message:
Leo: “What happened during your meeting with HR?” Henry: “Let’s just leave it at that, Leo.”
11. “That’s for Me to Know”
Using this phrase can add a bit of mystery while deflecting the question.
Example Conversation:
Leo: “What did you think of the new director?” Henry: “That’s for me to know, Leo.”
12. “I Don’t Owe an Explanation on That”
For situations where you want to assertively close the topic, this phrase works well.
Example Email:
To: Leo Subject: Re: Your Inquiry
Hi Leo,
Thank you for reaching out. However, I don’t owe an explanation on that matter.
Best regards, Henry
13. “I’m Not Sure That’s Relevant Here”
This phrase indirectly redirects the conversation away from the personal question.
Example Reply:
Leo: “Why did you choose not to join the event?” Henry: “I’m not sure that’s relevant here, Leo. Let’s focus on the next steps.”
14. “Let’s Stay on Topic”
A polite reminder to refocus the conversation without answering personal inquiries.
Example Message:
Leo: “Did you have a personal reason for that choice?” Henry: “I think we should stay on topic, Leo. Let’s get back to the project.”
15. “I’d Rather Not Discuss It Right Now”
This is a gentle way to delay or deflect an invasive question.
Example Email:
To: Leo Subject: Re: Your Question
Hi Leo,
Thank you for asking, but I’d rather not discuss it right now. Let’s connect on our primary tasks.
Sincerely, Henry
16. “I Don’t Think I Need to Share That”
For a polite refusal without explanation, this phrase is effective.
Example Reply:
Leo: “Where did you hear about the new project details?” Henry: “Leo, I don’t think I need to share that information.”
17. “I’ll Keep That to Myself”
This straightforward phrase signals that you won’t be elaborating.
Example Response:
Leo: “Any update on your situation?” Henry: “I’ll keep that to myself, Leo.”
18. “That’s Not Up for Discussion”
For a clear and strong boundary, this is a fitting choice.
Example Chat:
Leo: “Did you and Alex sort things out?” Henry: “That’s not up for discussion, Leo.”
19. “That’s Not Something I’d Share”
This phrase expresses that the topic is simply off-limits.
Example Message:
Leo: “Do you want to tell me what happened?” Henry: “That’s not something I’d share, Leo.”
20. “I’m Going to Keep That Close to My Chest”
This idiom implies discretion and subtly suggests privacy without being too direct.
Example Response:
Leo: “What was the reason behind your decision?” Henry: “I’ll keep that close to my chest, Leo.”
Conclusion
In moments when you need to let someone know a topic is private, choosing the right words is essential. Each of these phrases allows you to maintain your boundaries while respecting the context. Remember that how you deliver these phrases—whether with a lighthearted tone or a more serious demeanor—can help convey the level of firmness or friendliness you prefer. With these 20 alternatives, you can stay true to your comfort level and uphold your privacy gracefully.
