New phrase for the day...

Phrase: Conditional rejection

Definition: Turning someone down by telling them that if conditions were favorable (all the stars are aligned in the heavens) the outcome would be different than the outcome at present.

In a sentence: "I want to be with you BUT" [insert excuses]....; "If [endless number of reasons], I think things would work."

Translation: I don't want want to be with you; I don't want to put forth the effort. I'd be willing to make the sacrifice if you were someone else, just not you.