I am sorry, I cannot
Very common
phrase
Typemultiword
Subtypephrase
Structurefirst-person apology verb + negative modal verb
UsageInformally refusing or saying that you cannot do something.
Examples
I am sorry, I cannot.
I am sorry, I cannot come.
I am sorry, I cannot today.
I am sorry, I cannot help.
I am sorry, I cannot stay.