Sometimes the other person can get annoyed or defensive after a rejection. Their feelings are important, but yours are, too. Stand your ground and don’t let them convince you to go with them anyway; coercion isn’t cool.
“It was really sweet of you to ask me, but I’m not interested in going to prom with you. You’re a great person, and I’d love to stay friends,” lets them know you are still happy they asked, but can’t accept their offer. It cuts through some of the sting and awkwardness of a rejection. [3] X Research source
One way to phrase it could be, “I wanted to talk to you about prom. I’m really flattered that you asked me, and I know I said yes to going with you, but I can’t anymore. " If they ask for an explanation, be honest. “I don’t want to go with a date anymore,” “I didn’t want to embarrass you in front of everyone by turning you down,” or, “I don’t want to go to prom,” are all fine.
To offer them help with finding another date, you could say, “I’m sorry that I can’t go with you; is there anyone else you were thinking of asking? Maybe I can help set you two up!” If you know someone else who is interested, try, “Thank you for asking, but I have to say no. I know someone else who would love for you to ask them, though!”
For example, you could say, “I’m flattered you’ve asked me, but I already have other plans. How about we hang out some other time and maybe grab some pizza?”
