10 Ways To Refuse A Drink

Even for the seasoned pros, finding “cool” and creative ways to say no to a drink can seem impossible. Here is a ranking of our 10 favorite ways to pass up a cold one without seeming socially awkward.

10. “Que? No hablo ingles!” or “Je ne parle pas anglais!” or “我不会说英語!”

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Worst comes to worst, panic and freak out.

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Just kidding... pretend you don't speak English.

9. “I’m gluten intolerant.”

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Most types and brands of alcohol are not gluten free so unless your friend is a bartender, mixologist or connoisseur of all thing alcohol, this is a foolproof method.

8. “I’m trying to take it easy this weekend”

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Not all of us are as talented as Lea, but I think the message is loud and clear. Over-consumption can validate any dumb decision. Tell your friends you don't want to be riding the struggle bus of regret in the morning.

7. “I’m in my happy place” AKA “Don’t kill my vibe”

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Staying at your optimal buzz is key to enjoying your night if you choose to drink. Just one more drink can cause your buzz to turn into a bust and your sexy moves into something like this:

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Just let people know you're good for now.

6. “I might throw up if I have another” or “I’m feeling kind of sick”

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Nobody likes throw up, throwing up themselves, or other people throwing up. Period. Nobody wants to deal with that mess. Faking sick might not get you out of a pop quiz in section but it will definitely cool everyone's jets.

5. “I just want to dance!”

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Rihanna had it right from the beginning. Busting out your best moves on the dance floor can be difficult when you have a drink in your hand and you’re trying not to spill. Tell your friends you're focusing on “getting jiggy with it” for now but you’ll take a hydration break later.

4. “I have a drink already” *

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*says while holding cup

Fake it till you make it, amiright? If you don't just want to say no, get a glass and pour yourself some soda or water. No one is going to snatch your drink from you, taste it and accuse you of falsely bearing witness. As we always say “be your own bartender”, and water can sometimes be the best option.

3. “I have early morning practice/ weights/ a game tomorrow”

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Aside from the brain, alcohol has some of the largest effects on the body. Alcohol decreases the secretion of HGH (Human Growth Hormone), which builds and repairs muscles by 70%, affecting your ability to recover!

2. “I have a test tomorrow” or “I have to go finish a pset later”

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This is Harvard, do we really need to explain? Everyone understands that school comes first and getting too drunk before a day of studying can make it difficult to be productive and even remember what you reviewed.

1. “Thanks, but I’m good.”

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Regardless of the situation or how awkward it may seem, the best way to refuse a drink is to just say no. Your friends or whoever you are with should respect your decision and you should be able to enjoy a night out without being forced to do anything. If all else fails, use one of our previously mentioned excuses to get yourself out of any sticky situation.

Did we miss any that you think should have topped the list? Leave a comment or tweet at @Harvard_DAPA with your bests!