To take a rain check

Meaning

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

Examples

• John: 'Could you join us for dinner tonight?'<br>
• Alice: 'I'd love to, but I need to <b>take a rain check</b>. I'm terribly busy this evening.'
• John: 'No problem, let's reschedule it for next week.'
• Alice: 'I'm sorry but I need to <b>take a rain check</b> on that golf game. I've come down with a bad cold.'<br>