I prefer not to express myself on this.
'Esprimermi' — e-SPRI-mer-mi. Stress on the second syllable. Reflexive infinitive of 'esprimersi'.
Use when a topic is too sensitive, personal, or politically charged to share your opinion in the current context. A respectful way to decline to comment without being rude.
'Esprimersi' (to express oneself) is the reflexive form of 'esprimere' (to express). 'Preferisco non esprimermi su questo' is tactful — you're not refusing to have an opinion, just choosing not to share it in this context.
Non è mio compito commentare.
It's not my place to comment.
Formal — implies it's someone else's responsibility or domain
Preferisco restare neutrale.
I prefer to remain neutral.
Signals deliberate neutrality — you've chosen not to take sides
Su certi argomenti preferisco tacere.
On certain topics I prefer to keep quiet.
'Tacere' (to keep silent) — direct about choosing silence on sensitive matters
Italian politics is a sensitive topic that generates strong emotions. It's common practice to avoid political discussions in formal or mixed-company settings. The proposal to discuss 'in privato' (in private) is a genuine Italian diplomatic gesture.