English · Natural expressions
How to set a boundary in English
A boundary states your preference or limit. You do not have to explain private information to decline a topic, express discomfort, or ask for time alone.
Jis baat ke liye comfortable nahi hain, use saaf kahein. Polite rehkar bhi apni limit bata sakte hain.
Choose the expression that fits
Expression 1
I'd rather not talk about that.
मैं इस बारे में बात नहीं करना चाहता / चाहती।
main is baare mein baat nahi karna chaahta / chaahti.
Decline to discuss a private subject.
Expression 2
I'm not comfortable with that.
मुझे यह ठीक नहीं लग रहा।
mujhe yah theek nahi lag raha.
State discomfort with a proposed action.
Expression 3
I need some time alone today.
आज मुझे कुछ समय अकेले रहना है।
aaj mujhe kuchh samay akele rahna hai.
Ask for time alone today without criticizing the other person.
What to watch for
“I'm not comfortable with that” sets a limit without insulting someone. State the limit clearly. You do not have to invent an excuse or agree to something while declining it.
See it in a short conversation
A private question about income
Partner
How much money do you earn?
Show Hindi meaning
आप कितना कमाते हैं?
aap kitna kamaate hain?
You
I'd rather not talk about that.
Show Hindi meaning
मैं इस बारे में बात नहीं करना चाहता / चाहती।
main is baare mein baat nahi karna chaahta / chaahti.
Being asked about sharing a photo
Partner
Can I share your photo online?
Show Hindi meaning
क्या मैं आपकी तस्वीर ऑनलाइन साझा कर सकता / सकती हूँ?
kya main aapki tasveer online saajha kar sakta / sakti hoon?
You
I'm not comfortable with that.
Show Hindi meaning
मुझे यह ठीक नहीं लग रहा।
mujhe yah theek nahi lag raha.
Your turn
Tell someone that you need some time alone today. Keep the time and personal need clear.
Reveal sample reply
I need some time alone today.
आज मुझे कुछ समय अकेले रहना है।
aaj mujhe kuchh samay akele rahna hai.
