A friend has invited you to a party, but you’re busy on the day it’s being held - GT Letter Band 9

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

A friend has invited you to a party, but you’re busy on the day it’s being held.

Write a letter to your friend. In your letter,

• apologies for not being able to attend

• explain why you’re busy

• invite your friend to do something else with you

Write at least 150 words.

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Model Answer 1

Dear Emily,

I hope this letter finds you in the best of spirits. It's with a tinge of regret that I must inform you of my inability to join your much-anticipated party due to prior commitments clashing with the date.

Firstly, allow me to express my sincere apologies for missing out on what I am certain will be a splendid gathering. Your parties are always the highlight of our social calendar, and it pains me to miss this one. The reason for my absence is a long-standing family engagement that I cannot postpone. My cousin, whom I haven't seen in years, is visiting from overseas, and we have a family reunion planned on the same day as your party. These familial ties and the rare opportunity to reconnect with my cousin make it impossible for me to be two places at once, much as I would like to.

However, I am keen on making up for this missed opportunity. How about we plan a day out together next week? I was thinking we could try that new Italian restaurant downtown, followed by a visit to the art exhibition at the city museum. It would be a great way for us to catch up and spend some quality time. Let me know what day works best for you, and I’ll make all the necessary arrangements.

Looking forward to hearing from you soon and, once again, my apologies for not being able to attend your party.

Warm regards,

Jordan

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Model Answer 2

Dear Samantha,

I trust this letter finds you in radiant health and high spirits, though it is with a heavy heart that I must convey my inability to partake in the joyous celebration you have so kindly invited me to.

It is with sincere regret that I must apologize for my absence at your upcoming party. The reason behind this is a professional obligation that I cannot avoid. I have been assigned to lead an important project at work, requiring my presence for a critical meeting on the same day as your party. This meeting is pivotal for my career advancement, and it's imperative that I attend. I hope you understand the significance of this commitment and how it regrettably prevents me from joining your celebration.

Nevertheless, I wish to propose an alternative to make up for my absence. How would you feel about a weekend brunch at the new French café on Main Street? Their croissants are the talk of the town, and I think it would be a delightful setting for us to catch up. I am available next Saturday and would be more than happy to organize this. It would be a small token of my appreciation for your understanding and a chance for us to enjoy some quality time together.

Eagerly awaiting your reply, and once again, my apologies for missing your party.

Warmest regards,

Alexandra

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Model Answer 3

Dear Monica,

How are you? It’s great to hear from you. Thank you for inviting me to your birthday celebration party next Saturday. Unfortunately, I’m writing to let you know why I can’t make it.

Monica, it’s always my favourite to hang out with you, and I’d definitely love to come. But unfortunately, I’ve already arranged to do something else on that day.

Do you still remember my cousin Sally? She’s the one who’s been living in Japan for the last year. Well, she’s flying in for a visit, and I promised I’d show her around the whole journey. Oh, she’s planning to be in town for only that day, so I’m sorry I really can’t get out of it.

Anyway, I truly want to meet together. How about coffee the week after? If possible, we can check out the new café near your house on Newton Street! I know you’ve got a lot on your plate at this moment, but I’ll give you a call later and maybe we can sort out further details over the phone.

Best regards,

Pam

Model Answer 4

Dear Mike,

Take my greetings. I hope you are in good health; I’m also doing well. Thank you for inviting me to your birthday celebration party next Saturday. Unfortunately, I’m writing to let you know why I can’t make it.

You know, it’s always my favourite to hang out with you, and I’d definitely love to come. However, it is with deep sorrow and profound sadness to say that I’m already assigned to do something else on the same day.

You know my boss relies on me most when it comes to an assignment that consists of a client management. As a result, he has just assigned me an important visit abroad, which is unavoidable in any way. That means, I will be abroad for the next week as my company delegate. That’s why, in spite of having a great enthusiasm, I can’t join your marvellous ceremony, which has already started hurting me inside.

Anyway, I truly want to meet you and have fun together. How about coffee the week after? If possible, we can check out the new café near your house in Gulshan Avenue! I know you’ve got a lot on your plate at this moment, but I’ll give you a call later and maybe we can sort out further details over the phone.

Once again, I feel sorry for not attending your party. Hope to see you soon.

Your loving friend,

Anderson

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