Wwyd?

[Bluetitsfly]

Acquaintance (work) invited me to a social event (again) that I have said yes to. I want to withdraw my attendance and not go. How do I do this. I really don't like her and she makes me feel inadequate at every opportunity. I don't want to "be ill" or have an emergency and would almost like to say I don't like you so stop asking me to socialise with you ! How would you handle this?

I'd just sent a text saying I'm sorry I won't be able to come to the event. Thanks for the invitation. I'd leave it at that.

@HollowTalk

I'd just sent a text saying I'm sorry I won't be able to come to the event. Thanks for the invitation. I'd leave it at that.

This would be my exact reply.

Yes you don’t have have to give an explanation.

And also stop saying yes to things she invites you too. I imagine if she’s a work acquaintance you want to maintain some civility so might be tricky to wade into ‘I don’t want to hang out with you’ territory but if you maintain a polite distance and always decline her offers she’ll soon get the message.

Thanks everyone. Text sent!

Good but next time don't say yes to start with!

If she asks why not, just say it's for personal reasons.
This isn't a lie - the personal reason is that you don't want to.