No declines an offer and thank you shows appreciation for it. Together they soften the refusal.
Decline an offer politely
social
neutral
Said to politely refuse something another person offers.
Examples
- "Would you like more coffee?" "No, thank you."
- "Can I carry that?" "No, thank you, I can manage."
- She shook her head and said, "No, thank you."
- "Would you like a biscuit?" "No, thank you."
- He answered "No, thank you" when the waiter offered dessert.