There are times when even the most quick witted of us need extra time in which to prepare our defence. Here are some well-known phrases or sayings that will buy you those precious seconds, weeks, or years:

I have a complete answer to all the charges made against me, which I will give at the appropriate place and at the appropriate time. Until then, I will not dignify these outrageous allegations with a reply.

• I don't have my diary with me at the moment.
• Can I come back to you on this one?
• Not at the moment.
• I am making no plans of any sort at present.
• I like the sound of it. Perhaps when I'm feeling better.. .
• When can I let you know?
• Until I am in possession of all the facts, I would rather not comment.
• This is something I will be acting on immediately; the moment I get back from holiday, in fact.
• My initial reaction is a favourable one, but I'd like to sleep on it. I'll be in touch in a fortnight's time.
• Let me unarrange a few things first.
• I can't give you an answer until I receive an all-important piece of information on which everything depends at the moment.
• I've made myself a promise not to commit myself to
• anything else until I have met all my present obligations. But, certainly, after that. ..
• I would like to, but not until I've extricated myself from something I'm very heavily involved in.
• Don't go away.

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