Last updated: September 28, 2026
“I’m not feeling well” is one of the first phrases English learners memorize, and one of the first phrases native speakers stop using once they hit their twenties. It’s clear, it’s polite, and it works in almost any setting — but it’s also vague. It doesn’t tell your boss if you need one day off or five, and it doesn’t tell a friend if you’re exhausted, nauseous, or coming down with something.
I’ve edited enough sick-leave emails and student excuse notes to notice the same gap every time: people default to “I’m not feeling well” even when a more specific phrase would get their point across faster and sound more natural.
This guide breaks down 14+ alternatives to “I’m not feeling well” — grouped by formal, professional, and informal tone — with real examples so you know exactly when to use each one.
Why “I’m Not Feeling Well” Isn’t Always the Right Choice
“I’m not feeling well” is a vague, general phrase that works in almost any situation but doesn’t specify how sick you are or why. Grammatically, it’s an adjective phrase built from the linking verb “feel” plus the adverb “not” and the adjective “well” (not “good” — “well” is the correct adjective form here when talking about health).
The phrase isn’t incorrect. It’s just a placeholder. Here’s what I mean:
- Saying “I’m not feeling well” to a manager doesn’t tell them if you can still join a call later.
- Saying it to a doctor gives them nothing to work with — they need symptoms, not a mood.
- Saying it to a friend over text can come across as distant when something more specific, like “I’ve got a killer headache,” would sound warmer and more honest.
Choosing a more precise phrase — or a more casual one, depending on who you’re talking to — makes your message clearer and more natural at the same time.
Formal Alternatives
Formal alternatives fit doctor’s notes, HR emails, academic excuse letters, and any written communication where precision and professionalism both matter.
I am experiencing symptoms of illness
This phrase works well in written excuse notes or formal emails to a school or employer, especially when you want to sound measured rather than dramatic.
Example: “I am experiencing symptoms of illness and will not be able to attend today’s meeting.”
I am currently indisposed
“Indisposed” is a formal, slightly old-fashioned adjective meaning mildly unwell. It’s vague on purpose — useful when you don’t want to share details.
Example: “I am currently indisposed and will need to reschedule our appointment.”
I have taken ill
A formal, somewhat British phrasing often used in official correspondence or written notices. “Taken ill” implies the illness started recently.
Example: “She has taken ill and will be unable to attend the conference this week.”
I am not in good health today
A neutral, slightly formal option that avoids specific symptoms while still sounding sincere. Good for academic or administrative emails.
Example: “I am not in good health today, so I’ll need to submit the assignment tomorrow.”
Professional and Workplace Alternatives
Professional alternatives balance honesty and brevity — the right tone for coworkers, managers, and workplace messaging apps like Slack or email.
I’m feeling under the weather
One of the most common workplace phrases for mild illness. It signals you’re not at your best without going into detail, and most colleagues instantly understand it.
Example: “I’m feeling under the weather today, so I’ll be working from home.”
I don’t feel up to par
“Up to par” means meeting a usual standard. This phrase works well when you’re not seriously sick but know your performance or energy will be lower than normal.
Example: “I don’t feel up to par this morning — can we push the call to the afternoon?”
I’m coming down with something
Useful when symptoms are just starting and you’re not sure yet what’s wrong. It also signals to coworkers that you might be contagious.
Example: “I think I’m coming down with something, so I’ll keep my distance today.”
I need to take a sick day
Direct and professional. This isn’t a description of how you feel — it’s a clear request, which is often more useful in a workplace context than a vague symptom description.
Example: “I need to take a sick day today. I’ll follow up on the report tomorrow.”
I’m not at 100 percent today
A common, slightly informal-professional hybrid phrase. It works in team chats and casual workplace emails without sounding unprofessional.
Example: “I’m not at 100 percent today, but I can still join the call if needed.”
Informal and Everyday Alternatives
Informal alternatives work best with friends, family, and close coworkers — situations where “I’m not feeling well” would sound stiff or overly formal.
I feel like garbage
Blunt and casual. Fine for texting friends or close colleagues, but too informal for a workplace email or a note to your boss.
Example: “I feel like garbage today, I think I caught whatever’s going around the office.”
I’m feeling a bit off
A softer, casual way to say something isn’t quite right without naming a specific symptom. It works for texts, casual chats, or quick check-ins.
Example: “I’m feeling a bit off, so I’m going to skip the gym tonight.”
I’ve got a bug
A common, casual way to say you’ve caught a minor illness, usually something like a cold or stomach virus. Understood widely in both US and UK English.
Example: “I’ve got a bug, so I’m staying home just in case it’s contagious.”
I’m running on empty
This phrase leans more toward exhaustion than illness, but it’s often used interchangeably in casual conversation when someone feels physically drained.
Example: “I’m running on empty after this week — I might just sleep all weekend.”
My stomach’s been off all day
A specific, casual way to describe mild stomach discomfort without giving a full medical explanation. Common in text messages between friends or family.
How to Choose the Right Alternative
Match your phrase to your audience: formal wording for institutions and official notices, professional phrasing for coworkers, and casual language for friends and family.
A quick way to decide:
- Doctor’s note, HR email, or academic excuse → use a formal option like “I am experiencing symptoms of illness.”
- Slack message to your team or a quick email to your manager → use a professional option like “I’m feeling under the weather.”
- Text to a friend or family member → use an informal option like “I feel like garbage” or “I’ve got a bug.”
- You’re not sure how sick you are yet → try “I’m coming down with something,” which works in both professional and casual settings.
When I’m reviewing student writing, I usually ask them to picture exactly who’s reading the message. A phrase that sounds warm in a text to a roommate can sound careless in an email to a professor, and that mismatch is one of the most common issues I flag.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most common mistake is using “I feel not well” instead of the correct order, “I don’t feel well” or “I’m not feeling well.”
Other issues to watch for:
- Confusing “good” and “well.” “I don’t feel good” is casual and common, but “I don’t feel well” is the more grammatically precise choice since “well” is the adjective form used for health.
- Overusing vague phrases when specifics matter. If you’re emailing a doctor or filing a formal sick note, name your symptoms instead of relying only on “not feeling well.”
- Using overly casual phrases in professional settings. “I feel like garbage” might get a laugh from a coworker but reads as unprofessional in a formal email.
- Skipping the request. Especially at work, pair your phrase with what you actually need — a day off, a rescheduled meeting, or someone covering a shift.
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Other Ways to Say I’m Not Feeling Well
There are several ways to say “I’m not feeling well” depending on the situation, your relationship with the person, and how formal you want to sound. Whether you are talking to a friend, informing your manager, or explaining why you cannot attend an event, choosing the right words can help you communicate clearly and politely.
Here are some natural alternatives:
- I’m feeling a bit under the weather. A polite and common expression used when you feel slightly sick or unwell.
- I’m not feeling my best today. A gentle and natural way to explain that you are not feeling well.
- I’m feeling a little sick. A simple, direct expression that works in everyday conversations.
- I’m feeling unwell. A slightly more formal alternative suitable for both personal and professional situations.
- I’m feeling a bit off today. An informal expression used when you do not feel quite like yourself.
- I’m feeling under the weather today. A friendly way to let someone know that you are experiencing minor health problems.
- I’m not quite myself today. A subtle way to explain that you are feeling physically or emotionally different from usual.
- I’m feeling poorly today. A common expression, particularly in British English, for describing illness.
- I’m a little out of sorts today. A conversational phrase used when you feel uncomfortable, tired, or generally unwell.
- I’m experiencing some health issues today. A more formal expression when you prefer not to share specific symptoms.
Example sentences:
- “I’m feeling a bit under the weather, so I think I’ll stay home today.”
- “I’m not feeling my best today, but I hope to feel better soon.”
- “I’m feeling unwell and need some time to rest.”
- “I’m a little off today, so I might not be as productive as usual.”
The most suitable expression depends on the context. For everyday conversations, I’m feeling a bit under the weather sounds natural, while I’m feeling unwell is appropriate for professional communication.
How to Say Not Feeling Well Professionally
When communicating with your manager, colleagues, or clients, it is important to express that you are unwell in a clear, respectful, and professional manner. You do not need to disclose your medical details. A brief, polite message is usually enough to explain your situation.
Here are several professional ways to say that you are not feeling well:
- I’m feeling unwell today. A straightforward and professional way to inform someone that you are sick.
- I’m not feeling well and need some time to rest. Suitable when you need to take a break or step away from work.
- I’m experiencing some health issues today. A professional alternative when you prefer to keep your symptoms private.
- I’m feeling under the weather and may need to take the day off. A polite way to communicate that you might be unable to work.
- I’m feeling unwell and won’t be able to attend today’s meeting. Appropriate when you need to cancel a scheduled meeting.
- I’m not feeling my best today and may be less available than usual. Useful when you can still work but need to manage your availability.
- I’m feeling sick and need to take a sick day. A direct and professional statement when you are unable to work.
- I’m currently unwell and will need some time to recover. A respectful way to explain your need for rest.
Examples of professional messages:
- “I’m feeling unwell today and need to take some time to rest. Thank you for your understanding.”
- “I’m not feeling well this morning, so I may be unavailable for the rest of the day.”
- “I’m experiencing some health issues and won’t be able to attend today’s meeting. I appreciate your understanding.”
- “I’m feeling under the weather and would like to request sick leave for today.”
Tips for professional communication:
- Be clear: State that you are unwell and explain whether you will be working or taking leave.
- Keep it brief: You generally do not need to provide detailed medical information.
- Be polite: Use respectful language when informing your manager or colleagues.
- Mention your availability: If necessary, clarify whether you can respond to urgent work messages.
- Follow workplace procedures: Submit a sick leave request according to your company’s policy.
For professional communication, I’m feeling unwell today is a clear and respectful expression that works in most workplace situations.
I’m Not Feeling Well Today Message
When you are not feeling well, sending a short and thoughtful message can help others understand why you may be unavailable. The right message depends on whether you are contacting a friend, family member, colleague, or manager.
Here are some natural messages you can use in different situations.
Simple messages
- “I’m not feeling well today, so I’m going to take some time to rest.”
- “I’m feeling a little sick today and need to take it easy.”
- “I’m not feeling my best today. Hopefully, I’ll feel better soon.”
- “I’m feeling unwell today, so I’ll be taking some time off.”
- “I’m a bit under the weather today and need some rest.”
Polite messages
- “I’m not feeling well today, so I may not be available. Thank you for understanding.”
- “I’m feeling unwell and need some time to recover. I appreciate your understanding.”
- “I’m sorry, but I’m not feeling well today. I’ll get back to you when I’m feeling better.”
- “I’m feeling a little under the weather and won’t be able to join you today. Thank you for understanding.”
Messages for friends and family
- “Hey, I’m not feeling too well today, so I’ll stay home and get some rest.”
- “I’m feeling a bit sick today. Hopefully, I’ll be back to normal soon.”
- “I’m not feeling great today, so I think I’ll take it easy.”
- “I’m feeling under the weather today. I’ll catch up with you when I’m better.”
Short text messages
- “I’m not feeling well today. I’ll rest and recover.”
- “Feeling a little sick today. I’ll be offline for a while.”
- “I’m unwell today, so I need some rest.”
- “Not feeling my best today. I’ll talk to you later.”
A good message should be honest, concise, and appropriate for the person receiving it. If you are contacting someone professionally, avoid overly casual expressions and clearly mention whether you will be available.
I’m Not Feeling Well Meaning
“I’m not feeling well” is a common English expression used to describe a situation in which someone feels physically or emotionally unwell. It generally means that the person is experiencing discomfort, illness, tiredness, or a general sense of not feeling normal.
The phrase is often used when someone does not want to explain their symptoms in detail. It is suitable for casual conversations, workplace communication, and everyday situations.
Different meanings of “I’m not feeling well”:
- Physical illness: It can mean that you have a headache, fever, cold, stomachache, or another health problem.
- General discomfort: It may indicate that you feel weak, tired, dizzy, or uncomfortable without knowing the exact reason.
- Emotional discomfort: Depending on the context, it can also refer to feeling emotionally upset, anxious, or distressed.
- Temporary sickness: It is often used to describe a short-term illness that may improve after rest.
- Lack of energy: Sometimes, the expression means that you are exhausted or do not have enough energy to carry out your usual activities.
Examples in sentences:
- “I’m not feeling well today, so I won’t be going out.”
- “She said she wasn’t feeling well and decided to go home early.”
- “I’m not feeling well enough to attend the meeting.”
- “He wasn’t feeling well yesterday but seems better today.”
- “I’m not feeling well, so I think I’ll get some rest.”
Is “I’m not feeling well” formal or informal?
The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal situations. However, its tone can change depending on the context.
- Informal: “I’m not feeling too good today.”
- Neutral: “I’m not feeling well today.”
- Professional: “I’m feeling unwell and need to take the day off.”
The expression does not necessarily mean that someone has a serious illness. It is a general way to communicate that they do not feel healthy or comfortable.
I’m Not Feeling Well Today Sick Leave
When you are sick and cannot perform your usual work responsibilities, you may need to request sick leave. In this situation, your message should clearly explain that you are unwell, mention the leave you need, and maintain a professional tone.
You do not have to share every detail about your health. A simple and respectful sick leave request is generally sufficient, subject to your workplace’s requirements.
Professional sick leave messages:
- “I’m not feeling well today and would like to request sick leave. Thank you for your understanding.”
- “I’m feeling unwell and won’t be able to come to work today. I would appreciate your approval for sick leave.”
- “I’m experiencing health issues today and need to take a sick day to recover.”
- “I’m not feeling well enough to work today, so I’ll need to take sick leave.”
- “I’m feeling under the weather and would like to take the day off to rest and recover.”
Short sick leave messages
- “I’m unwell today and need to take sick leave. Thank you for understanding.”
- “I’m not feeling well, so I won’t be able to work today.”
- “I’m feeling sick today and need a day off to recover.”
- “I’m unable to come to work today because I’m unwell.”
Sick leave messages for your manager
- “Good morning, I’m not feeling well today and won’t be able to come to work. I’d like to request sick leave for the day. Thank you for your understanding.”
- “Hello, I’m feeling unwell and need to take a sick day today. I’ll keep you updated if I need additional time to recover.”
- “Good morning, I’m experiencing some health issues and won’t be able to perform my duties today. Please consider this my sick leave request.”
Tips for writing a sick leave message:
- Mention the date: Make it clear which day you need sick leave.
- State your situation: Explain briefly that you are unwell and cannot work.
- Request leave politely: Use clear wording to communicate your request.
- Keep your message professional: Avoid unnecessary personal details.
- Follow company policy: Provide any required documentation or updates.
A simple message such as I’m not feeling well today and would like to request sick leave is often enough to communicate your situation professionally.
I’m Not Feeling Well Today Message for Work
A message to your workplace should be professional, polite, and easy to understand. Whether you are informing your manager, supervisor, or team, it is important to communicate your absence as early as possible and explain whether you will be available.
The following examples can help you write a suitable message for different workplace situations.
- Formal message to your manager
“Good morning, I’m not feeling well today and won’t be able to come to work. I would like to request sick leave for today. Thank you for your understanding.”
- Short message for work
“Good morning, I’m feeling unwell today and won’t be able to attend work. Thank you for understanding.”
- Professional WhatsApp message
“Good morning, I wanted to let you know that I’m not feeling well today. I’ll need to take the day off to rest and recover. I appreciate your understanding.”
- Message when you have a fever
“Good morning, I’m feeling unwell and have a fever today. I won’t be able to come to work and would like to request sick leave.”
- Message when you need one day off
“Hello, I’m not feeling well today and need to take a day off to recover. I’ll return to work as soon as I’m feeling better.”
- Message when you are unsure how long you will be absent
“Good morning, I’m feeling unwell today and won’t be able to attend work. I’ll monitor my condition and keep you updated if I need additional sick leave.”
- Message to your colleagues
“Hi, I’m not feeling well today, so I won’t be available at work. I’ll catch up on any pending tasks once I’m feeling better.”
- Message when you can work remotely
“Good morning, I’m not feeling well enough to come into the office today. If my condition allows, I’ll work from home and remain available online.”
- Message for an urgent absence
“Hello, I’m feeling unwell and won’t be able to come to work today. I’m sorry for the short notice and appreciate your understanding.”
- Message after informing your manager
“Thank you for understanding my situation. I’m taking today off to rest and recover and will keep you informed about my return.”
What to include in a work absence message
- A polite greeting: Start with a greeting such as “Good morning” or “Hello.”
- A clear explanation: Briefly mention that you are not feeling well.
- Your absence: Specify whether you cannot come to work or attend a meeting.
- Your leave request: Clearly state if you need sick leave.
- A courteous closing: Thank your manager for their understanding.
For most workplace situations, a message of two or three sentences is sufficient. It communicates your absence without making the explanation unnecessarily complicated.
How to Say I’m Not Feeling Well in Japanese
In Japanese, there are several ways to express “I’m not feeling well.” The most suitable phrase depends on whether you are speaking to a friend, a family member, a colleague, or your manager. Japanese also uses different levels of politeness, so choosing an appropriate expression is important.
Here are some common Japanese expressions with their meanings and usage.
- 体調が悪いです (Taichō ga warui desu)
Meaning: I’m not feeling well.
This is a common and polite way to say that you are unwell. It is suitable for everyday conversations and many workplace situations.
Example:
今日は体調が悪いです。
Meaning: I’m not feeling well today.
- 気分が悪いです (Kibun ga warui desu)
Meaning: I feel sick or nauseous.
This expression is generally used when you feel physically uncomfortable, particularly when you are nauseous or experiencing a general feeling of sickness.
Example:
少し気分が悪いです。
Meaning: I’m feeling a little sick.
- 具合が悪いです (Guai ga warui desu)
Meaning: I’m feeling unwell.
This is a natural expression for describing poor health or physical discomfort. It is suitable for everyday conversations.
Example:
今日は具合が悪いです。
Meaning: I’m not feeling well today.
- 今日は体調がよくありません (Kyō wa taichō ga yoku arimasen)
Meaning: I’m not feeling well today.
This is a polite and slightly more formal expression. It can be used when speaking to colleagues, teachers, or people you do not know well.
- 今日は体調が悪いので、休みます (Kyō wa taichō ga warui node, yasumimasu)
Meaning: I’m not feeling well today, so I’ll take the day off.
This phrase is useful when you need to explain that you are unwell and cannot attend work, school, or another scheduled activity.
- 体調が悪いので、仕事を休みます (Taichō ga warui node, shigoto o yasumimasu)
Meaning: I’m not feeling well, so I’m taking time off work.
This is a straightforward way to explain your absence from work.
Useful Japanese phrases:
- 今日は体調が悪いです。 — I’m not feeling well today.
- 少し具合が悪いです。 — I’m feeling a little unwell.
- 今日は休みたいです。 — I would like to take the day off today.
- 体調がよくなりました。 — I’m feeling better.
- まだ体調が悪いです。 — I’m still not feeling well.
Which Japanese expression should you use?
- With friends: 今日はちょっと具合が悪い。 (I’m feeling a little unwell today.)
- With colleagues: 今日は体調が悪いです。 (I’m not feeling well today.)
- With your manager: 体調が悪いため、本日はお休みをいただきたいです。 (I’m unwell and would like to take the day off today.)
For most situations, 今日は体調が悪いです is a natural and polite way to express that you are not feeling well. When speaking to a manager, the more formal expression requesting time off is appropriate.
I Won’t Be Able to Come to Work Today Because I Am Not Feeling Well
The sentence “I won’t be able to come to work today because I am not feeling well” is a polite and clear way to inform your employer that you cannot attend work due to illness. It is suitable for emails, text messages, and workplace communication.
However, you can make the sentence sound more natural or professional depending on whom you are contacting.
Professional alternatives:
- “I won’t be able to come to work today as I’m feeling unwell.” A concise and professional alternative that is suitable for informing your manager.
- “I’m feeling unwell today and won’t be able to attend work.” A direct and respectful way to communicate your absence.
- “Due to illness, I won’t be able to come to work today.” A formal expression that is suitable for workplace emails.
- “I’m not feeling well enough to work today and need to take sick leave.” Appropriate when you want to explain that you need a sick day.
- “Unfortunately, I’m unwell today and will be unable to attend work.” A polite way to inform your employer about an unexpected absence.
- “I’m feeling under the weather and won’t be able to make it to work today.” A natural expression that is slightly more conversational.
- “I’m experiencing health issues today and will need to take the day off.” Suitable when you prefer to keep the details of your illness private.
Complete messages for work
- Simple and professional
“Good morning, I’m not feeling well today and won’t be able to come to work. I apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.”
- Formal sick leave request
“Dear (Manager’s Name), I’m feeling unwell today and won’t be able to attend work. I would like to request sick leave for today. Thank you for your consideration.”
- Short and polite
“Good morning, unfortunately, I’m feeling unwell and won’t be able to make it to work today. Thank you for understanding.”
- Message for an unexpected absence
“Hello, I wanted to inform you that I’m not feeling well and won’t be able to come to work today. I apologize for the short notice and appreciate your understanding.”
- Message when you expect to return tomorrow
“Good morning, I’m feeling unwell today and won’t be able to come to work. I plan to return tomorrow if I’m feeling better. Thank you for your understanding.”
- Message when you may need additional leave
“Hello, I’m unwell today and unable to attend work. I’ll monitor my condition and update you if I need to extend my sick leave.”
How to make this sentence more professional
- Use “as” instead of “because”: Both are grammatically correct, but “as I’m feeling unwell” can make the sentence sound more concise in professional writing.
- Use “attend work”: This is a suitable alternative to “come to work,” particularly in formal emails.
- Be direct: Clearly state that you cannot attend work rather than leaving your availability unclear.
- Avoid unnecessary details: You can communicate your illness without describing every symptom.
- Include a polite closing: Thanking your manager for their understanding helps maintain a respectful tone.
Recommended examples for different situations:
- For WhatsApp: “Good morning, I’m not feeling well today, so I won’t be able to come to work. Thank you for understanding.”
- For email: “Dear (Manager’s Name), I am feeling unwell today and will be unable to attend work. I would like to request sick leave for the day. Thank you for your understanding.”
- For a quick message: “I’m feeling unwell and won’t be able to make it to work today.”
- For a formal notification: “Due to illness, I will be unable to attend work today. I appreciate your understanding.”
The original sentence is grammatically correct and perfectly understandable. However, “I’m feeling unwell today and won’t be able to attend work” is a concise alternative that works well in most professional situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I say I’m not feeling well professionally?
You can say, “I’m feeling unwell today and may need some time to rest.” For a more formal workplace message, try, “I’m experiencing some health issues and may not be able to perform my duties as usual today.”
What is another way to say “not feeling well”?
You can use phrases such as “feeling under the weather,” “feeling unwell,” “experiencing discomfort,” or “feeling a bit off.” These alternatives work in different situations, from casual conversations to professional communication.
How do I professionally say I’m sick?
You can say, “I’m unwell today and need to take some time off to recover.” Alternatively, use “Due to illness, I won’t be able to attend work today. Thank you for your understanding.” Both expressions are polite and suitable for workplace communication.
How do I tell I’m not feeling well?
Be clear and polite when explaining that you’re not feeling well. You can say, “I’m not feeling well today and would like to take some time to rest.” If you’re informing your manager, briefly explain how your condition may affect your work.
What to say instead of “I’m not feeling well”?
Instead of saying “I’m not feeling well,” you can use expressions such as “I’m feeling unwell,” “I’m a little under the weather,” or “I’m feeling sick today.” In professional settings, “I’m experiencing some health issues today” is another polite and appropriate alternative.
The Bottom Line
“I’m not feeling well” gets the job done, but it’s a placeholder phrase, not the most useful one you have. Whether you need something formal for a doctor’s note, professional for a workplace email, or casual for a quick text to a friend, matching your wording to the situation makes your message land clearer and sound more like you.
Riaz Ahmad is the founder and writer at DefineGrammar.com, dedicated to simplifying English grammar for students and writers worldwide. With a passion for language, he breaks down complex grammar rules into clear, practical lessons, helping readers write with confidence and clarity every day.
