To take a rain check

Translation language

Meaning

To politely decline an invitation but suggest doing it another time.

John: 'Could you join us for dinner tonight?'<br>

Alice: 'I'd love to, but I need to take a rain check. I'm terribly busy this evening.'

John: 'No problem, let's reschedule it for next week.'

Alice: 'I'm sorry but I need to take a rain check on that golf game. I've come down with a bad cold.'<br>