30 Other Ways to Say “Not My Problem” (With Examples)

Effective communication is essential in every workplace, especially when setting boundaries and offering help. But sometimes, conveying that something isn’t your responsibility doesn’t need to sound dismissive or harsh. Using thoughtful language can make a significant difference in how your message is received. In this article, we’ll explore 30 professional, empathetic ways to say “Not my problem”, ensuring that you can handle situations with grace, warmth, and respect.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “Not My Problem”?

While it can be tempting to dismiss something outright, using the phrase “Not my problem” can come across as blunt or uncaring. It may seem uncooperative or avoidant, especially if you want to maintain a professional and collaborative environment. Finding alternative ways to communicate your stance can help you express boundaries effectively while still sounding courteous and respectful.

Pros or Cons of Saying “Not My Problem”

Pros:

• Clear and direct: It states exactly where your responsibilities end.
• Efficient: Shortens conversations about things outside your scope.

Cons:

• Dismissive tone: It can sound cold and uninterested in finding a solution.
• Damaging relationships: Repeatedly using this phrase may hurt team collaboration and morale.

Synonyms For Not My Problem

1. That’s outside my scope.
2. I’m not the best person for this.
3. That falls under someone else’s expertise.
4. I don’t have the bandwidth for that right now.
5. I’m not in a position to take this on.
6. That’s not something I can take care of.
7. I believe someone else would be better suited for this.
8. That isn’t something I’m involved in.
9. I have to prioritize my current responsibilities.
10. I can’t commit to that at this time.
11. That’s not within my responsibilities.
12. I’m not equipped to handle that.
13. I’m currently handling other commitments.
14. I can’t take that on right now.
15. That’s outside of what I can contribute to.
16. I don’t have the capacity for that.
17. That’s not within my current workload.
18. I’m already committed to other tasks.
19. I’m afraid I don’t have the ability to help with that.
20. I don’t have the resources to address that.
21. I can’t dedicate time to that right now.
22. I’m currently focused on other projects.
23. I’m unable to give this my attention at the moment.
24. I can’t manage that responsibility right now.
25. I’m afraid I can’t be of assistance with that.
26. I’m working on other things at the moment.
27. I’m not able to offer support with that.
28. I’m unable to contribute to that.
29. That’s not something I’m responsible for.
30. I’m not in a position to help with that.

1. “I’m unable to assist with that.”

Scenario: Someone asks for help on a project outside your area of responsibility.
Examples:

• “I’m unable to assist with that, but I can point you to the right person.”
• “Unfortunately, I’m unable to assist with that request, but I’m happy to suggest another approach.”
• “I’m unable to assist with this, but I’m confident someone else on the team can help.”

Tone: Polite, accommodating, and respectful.
Explanation: This alternative acknowledges that you can’t help but still shows a willingness to guide or point the individual in the right direction.

2. “That falls outside of my scope of work.”

Scenario: A colleague asks for assistance on something unrelated to your role.
Examples:

• “That falls outside of my scope of work, but I can help you find the right person.”
• “I believe that task falls outside of my scope, but I’ll let you know who to talk to.”
• “I’m afraid that falls outside of my scope of work, but I can offer guidance on where to look.”

Tone: Firm yet helpful, professional.
Explanation: This phrasing gives a clear boundary about your responsibilities while offering a solution, maintaining a collaborative atmosphere.

3. “I’m not the best person for this.”

Scenario: A coworker seeks advice or help on an issue you’re not equipped to handle.
Examples:

• “I’m not the best person for this, but I’d be happy to direct you to someone who can help.”
• “This isn’t my area of expertise, so I’m not the best person to help, but I know who can.”
• “I’m not the best person for this, but I can certainly point you in the right direction.”

Tone: Humble, understanding, and considerate.
Explanation: This expresses honesty and humility without sounding dismissive. You acknowledge the limits of your expertise while suggesting a solution.

4. “I believe that’s outside my responsibilities.”

Scenario: You’re asked to help with something that is clearly outside your role.
Examples:

• “I believe that’s outside my responsibilities, but I’m sure someone else on the team can assist.”
• “That’s outside my responsibilities, but let me direct you to someone who handles that.”
• “I believe that’s outside my responsibilities, and I don’t have the resources to assist right now.”

Tone: Professional, courteous, and clear.
Explanation: This alternative firmly sets boundaries while remaining polite, signaling that you’re not neglecting the situation but rather redirecting it appropriately.

5. “That’s not within my area of expertise.”

Scenario: A colleague asks for help with something outside your skill set.
Examples:

• “That’s not within my area of expertise, but I can refer you to someone who is more qualified.”
• “I’m afraid that’s not within my area of expertise, but I’ll help you connect with the right person.”
• “That’s not within my area of expertise, but I know someone who can be of assistance.”

Tone: Respectful, transparent, and helpful.
Explanation: By expressing your limitations without sounding dismissive, you provide a clear, polite refusal while offering assistance in finding the right person for the task.

6. “I’m currently focusing on other priorities.”

Scenario: A colleague asks for help when you’re overwhelmed with your own tasks.
Examples:

• “I’m currently focusing on other priorities, but I’d be happy to help when I’m able.”
• “At the moment, I’m focusing on other priorities, but I can offer guidance once I finish this task.”
• “Right now, I’m focused on other priorities, so I won’t be able to assist with that.”

Tone: Considerate, transparent, and responsible.
Explanation: This alternative communicates your workload while being considerate of the other person’s needs. It signals your current focus without being harsh.

7. “That’s not something I can manage right now.”

Scenario: Someone needs something from you that isn’t possible at the moment.
Examples:

• “That’s not something I can manage right now, but let me know if I can help in the future.”
• “Unfortunately, that’s not something I can manage right now, but I’ll keep it in mind.”
• “I’m not able to manage that at this time, but I can direct you to the right person.”

Tone: Empathetic, thoughtful, and polite.
Explanation: You’re gently refusing without sounding dismissive, providing a considerate response that leaves the door open for future help.

8. “I don’t have the bandwidth for that.”

Scenario: A request comes in when you’re already stretched thin with other commitments.
Examples:

• “I don’t have the bandwidth for that at the moment, but I can help when I’m available.”
• “Unfortunately, I don’t have the bandwidth for that right now, but I can direct you to someone who does.”
• “I’m a bit overloaded at the moment and don’t have the bandwidth to take on that task.”

Tone: Honest, understanding, and clear.
Explanation: This alternative is a polite way to express your current limitations while remaining transparent about your situation.

9. “I’m not available for that at the moment.”

Scenario: A colleague asks for something while you’re unavailable or busy.
Examples:

• “I’m not available for that at the moment, but I’ll be free to help later in the day.”
• “Currently, I’m not available for that, but I can help once I finish my current task.”
• “I’m not available for that right now, but I’ll connect you with someone who is.”

Tone: Direct, yet polite and respectful.
Explanation: This statement is clear and concise, indicating that you’re not dismissing the request but are simply unavailable at the present time.

10. “I’m unable to prioritize this.”

Scenario: A task comes up that is not urgent or important to your current responsibilities.
Examples:

• “I’m unable to prioritize this right now, but I can help when my schedule frees up.”
• “Unfortunately, I can’t prioritize this at the moment, but I’ll check back with you once I’m available.”
• “This task is not something I can prioritize at the moment, but I’d be happy to revisit it later.”

Tone: Professional, diplomatic, and respectful.
Explanation: This approach helps you express that the task isn’t urgent for you while still providing the opportunity to assist at a later time.

11. “That’s not within my responsibilities.”

Scenario: A request falls outside your role or duties.
Examples:

• “That’s not within my responsibilities, but I’m sure someone else can take care of it.”
• “I can’t help with that as it’s not within my responsibilities, but I can assist you with something else.”
• “I believe that’s not within my responsibilities, but I can help direct you to someone who can assist.”

Tone: Professional, clear, and neutral.
Explanation: This phrase draws a firm line while maintaining a helpful attitude, signaling that you’re not dismissing the situation but offering a solution.

12. “I’m not equipped to handle that.”

Scenario: A colleague asks for assistance in an area that requires skills or knowledge you don’t possess.
Examples:

• “I’m not equipped to handle that, but I can recommend someone who is.”
• “Unfortunately, I’m not equipped to handle that request, but I’ll connect you with the right person.”
• “That’s something I’m not equipped to handle, but I’d be happy to provide guidance on finding the right support.”

Tone: Honest, transparent, and empathetic.
Explanation: This alternative acknowledges your limitations and politely redirects the individual to someone who is better suited to help.

13. “I’m currently handling other commitments.”

Scenario: You’re asked to take on additional work while already managing your existing responsibilities.
Examples:

• “I’m currently handling other commitments, but I can revisit this once I free up some time.”
• “I’m afraid I’m already tied up with other commitments, but I can help later.”
• “At the moment, I’m handling other commitments, but I can assist once they’re completed.”

Tone: Respectful, understanding, and diplomatic.
Explanation: You communicate that you’re busy without being dismissive, providing a potential opportunity for future assistance.

14. “I can’t take that on right now.”

Scenario: Someone asks for your help with an additional task.
Examples:

• “I can’t take that on right now, but I’m happy to help once I’ve completed my current tasks.”
• “Currently, I can’t take that on, but I’ll check back with you once I have availability.”
• “Unfortunately, I can’t take that on right now, but I can help you find someone who can.”

Tone: Honest, but considerate.
Explanation: By expressing your unavailability, you’re being truthful but still demonstrating your willingness to help in the future.

15. “That’s outside of what I can contribute to.”

Scenario: A task is asked of you that isn’t part of your job or expertise.
Examples:

• “That’s outside of what I can contribute to, but I can help in another way if you need.”
• “Unfortunately, that’s outside of what I can contribute to, but I know the right person for the job.”
• “That’s outside of what I can contribute to right now, but I’m happy to provide guidance.”

Tone: Respectful, understanding, and professional.
Explanation: This alternative emphasizes that the task isn’t within your capacity, while still showing willingness to support in other ways.

16. “I don’t have the capacity for that.”

Scenario: You’re asked to take on an additional responsibility while already feeling overwhelmed.
Examples:

• “I don’t have the capacity for that at the moment, but I can help later.”
• “Unfortunately, I don’t have the capacity for that right now, but I can direct you to someone who might.”
• “I’m afraid I don’t have the capacity to take that on right now, but I’d be happy to offer advice.”

Tone: Honest, firm, and understanding.
Explanation: This phrase makes it clear that you’re at your limit, while also offering assistance in an alternative manner.

17. “That’s not within my current workload.”

Scenario: Someone asks you to take on a new task when you’re already managing a full workload.
Examples:

• “That’s not within my current workload, but I can connect you with the person who handles that.”
• “Currently, that’s not within my workload, but I’m happy to help once I complete my existing projects.”
• “I’m sorry, that’s not within my current workload, but I can point you to the right team member.”

Tone: Professional, neutral, and helpful.
Explanation: This response sets clear boundaries about your responsibilities without sounding rude, while still offering to help in a different way.

18. “I’m already committed to other tasks.”

Scenario: You’re asked to assist when you’re already working on other priorities.
Examples:

• “I’m already committed to other tasks at the moment, but I’ll help when I can.”
• “Unfortunately, I’m already committed to other tasks, but I can recommend someone who can help.”
• “I’m already committed to other tasks, so I can’t take this on right now, but I’ll keep you in mind.”

Tone: Clear, polite, and respectful.
Explanation: By acknowledging your existing commitments, you show that you’re fully engaged with your responsibilities, but still remain considerate of the person’s needs.

19. “I’m afraid I don’t have the ability to help with that.”

Scenario: Someone asks for assistance on something outside your skills or capabilities.
Examples:

• “I’m afraid I don’t have the ability to help with that, but I can guide you to someone who does.”
• “I’m afraid I don’t have the ability to help with that request, but I’m happy to direct you to the right resources.”
• “I’m afraid I don’t have the ability to handle that, but I’d be glad to help find another solution.”

Tone: Honest, humble, and respectful.
Explanation: This alternative expresses a limitation in a respectful way while offering to help by finding other ways to address the situation.

20. “I don’t have the resources to address that.”

Scenario: A request requires more time, tools, or people than you currently have available.
Examples:

• “I don’t have the resources to address that, but I can suggest some alternatives.”
• “Unfortunately, I don’t have the resources to handle that right now, but I can connect you with someone who does.”
• “I’m afraid I don’t have the resources to address this, but I’d be happy to offer advice on where to find help.”

Tone: Transparent, practical, and professional.
Explanation: This response acknowledges the limitations you face and helps the person move forward by offering alternative solutions.

21. “I can’t dedicate time to that right now.”

Scenario: A colleague requests your time for something that doesn’t align with your current priorities.
Examples:

• “I can’t dedicate time to that right now, but I’d be happy to revisit it later.”
• “Unfortunately, I can’t dedicate time to that at the moment, but I’ll be available soon.”
• “I’m not able to dedicate time to that right now, but I can refer you to someone who can assist.”

Tone: Honest, polite, and clear.
Explanation: This statement lets the person know that you’re currently unavailable while still being polite and offering a future possibility of helping.

22. “I’m currently focused on other projects.”

Scenario: A colleague asks for your assistance when you’re busy with other responsibilities.
Examples:

• “I’m currently focused on other projects, but I can connect you with someone who has availability.”
• “At the moment, I’m focused on other projects, but I’ll help once I finish these tasks.”
• “Unfortunately, I’m focused on other projects right now, but I’ll be happy to assist later.”

Tone: Professional, respectful, and clear.
Explanation: This approach clearly communicates that you’re currently committed to other projects without being dismissive.

23. “I’m unable to give this my attention at the moment.”

Scenario: A colleague asks for your attention on something outside your priorities.
Examples:

• “I’m unable to give this my attention at the moment, but I’ll be available soon.”
• “At this time, I’m unable to give this my attention, but I can assist later.”
• “I’m afraid I can’t give this my attention right now, but I can help once I complete my current tasks.”

Tone: Professional, transparent, and polite.
Explanation: This phrasing acknowledges your current limitations while also indicating that you’re not dismissing the request entirely.

24. “I can’t manage that responsibility right now.”

Scenario: A task is requested that you can’t take on due to current obligations.
Examples:

• “I can’t manage that responsibility right now, but I’d be happy to assist when I can.”
• “Unfortunately, I can’t manage that responsibility at this time, but I’ll connect you with someone who can.”
• “I’m unable to manage that responsibility right now, but I can offer support in another way.”

Tone: Clear, respectful, and professional.
Explanation: This response draws clear boundaries while expressing a willingness to support in an alternative capacity.

25. “I’m afraid I can’t be of assistance with that.”

Scenario: Someone needs your help on something you’re not able to support.
Examples:

• “I’m afraid I can’t be of assistance with that, but I can help you find someone who can.”
• “Unfortunately, I’m afraid I can’t be of assistance with that, but I know who can help.”
• “I’m afraid I can’t be of assistance with this task, but I can offer advice on where to turn next.”

Tone: Honest, firm, but empathetic.
Explanation: This response is a polite and professional way to acknowledge that you can’t help while still being considerate.

26. “I’m working on other things at the moment.”

Scenario: A colleague asks you to shift focus to help with something else.
Examples:

• “I’m working on other things at the moment, but I’ll check in with you once I have time.”
• “I’m currently working on other things, but I’ll be available soon to assist.”
• “Unfortunately, I’m working on other things right now, but I can refer you to the right person.”

Tone: Polite, respectful, and professional.
Explanation: You express that you’re busy with other tasks without being dismissive and offer assistance when you’re available.

27. “I’m not able to offer support with that.”

Scenario: A request comes in, but it doesn’t align with your capabilities or responsibilities.
Examples:

• “I’m not able to offer support with that, but I can guide you to someone who can.”
• “Unfortunately, I’m not able to offer support with that, but I’m happy to help in other ways.”
• “I’m afraid I’m not able to offer support, but I’ll connect you with the appropriate person.”

Tone: Respectful, professional, and clear.
Explanation: This response is polite and considerate while clearly communicating that you’re not able to assist.

28. “I’m unable to contribute to that.”

Scenario: A task is assigned to you that’s outside your responsibilities.
Examples:

• “I’m unable to contribute to that, but I can direct you to the right person.”
• “Unfortunately, I’m unable to contribute to that, but I’m happy to offer guidance.”
• “I’m afraid I’m unable to contribute to that request, but I’ll help in another way.”

Tone: Honest, firm, and helpful.
Explanation: This statement firmly sets boundaries while still offering an alternative to help.

29. “That’s not something I’m responsible for.”

Scenario: You’re asked to do something that falls outside of your role or expertise.
Examples:

• “That’s not something I’m responsible for, but I can guide you to someone who is.”
• “Unfortunately, that’s not something I’m responsible for, but I’ll make sure you’re connected with the right person.”
• “I’m afraid that’s not my responsibility, but I’ll help you find the appropriate person.”

Tone: Professional, direct, and helpful.
Explanation: By being direct and clear, this alternative maintains respect while still offering help in redirecting the request.

30. “I’m not in a position to help with that.”

Scenario: A colleague needs help, but you’re unable to provide it at the moment.
Examples:

• “I’m not in a position to help with that right now, but I can point you to someone who might be.”
• “I’m not in a position to help with that task at the moment, but I’m happy to assist in another way.”
• “I’m afraid I’m not in a position to help with that right now, but I’ll check back with you when I have time.”

Tone: Respectful, firm, and considerate.
Explanation: This phrase is professional and polite, signaling that you can’t help at this time, but offering a supportive alternative.

Conclusion

Communicating that something is not your problem doesn’t mean you have to be dismissive or unkind. Using empathetic and professional language allows you to set healthy boundaries while maintaining positive relationships at work.

Whether you’re declining a request due to workload, skill limitations, or role boundaries, the key is to be clear, polite, and solution-oriented. By offering alternative support, such as referring the person to the right resource or expressing a willingness to help later, you ensure that your message is received warmly and respectfully.

Next time you need to say “not my problem” in a professional way, try using one of these thoughtful alternatives. Your colleagues and clients will appreciate the honesty and care in your communication!