ni de coña
/ni de koɲa/from spelling rules
The English phrase "ain't no way" can be translated into Spanish as ni de coña.
This expression is used to express strong disbelief or to emphatically state that a certain outcome is impossible.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, the phrase translates to "not even from a joke" (using coña as a slang term for a joke or a prank), implying that even a joke wouldn't make the event possible.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The phrase ni de coña is highly informal and should be avoided in professional or polite settings. Similarly, Ni de broma is an informal way to express this sentiment.
Is it said differently in some regions?
ni de coña is most commonly used in Spain. In Spain, Ni loco is also a colloquial way to express disbelief or refusal. In Mexico, Ni de chiste is a popular equivalent, while in Argentina, the phrase Ni a palos is used to express doubt, skepticism or rejection.
How do you pronounce it?
/ni de koɲa/
Did you know?
- Using ni de coña in a formal setting can be perceived as vulgar rather than just informal. This is because it derives from the same root as a highly taboo Spanish word for female anatomy.
- In Argentina, the equivalent phrase ni a palos literally means 'not even with sticks'. It evokes the image of someone refusing to do something even if they were beaten into submission with clubs.
- The word ni is a cognate of the English word 'neither'. Both descend from the Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'and not'.
Examples in context
- No hay forma de que el proyecto se complete a tiempo.There is no way the project will be completed on time.
- No es posible que haga tanto calor en el invierno.There is no way it can be this hot in winter.
- Ni de broma voy a saltar desde tan alto.Ain't no way I'm jumping from such a height.
- De ninguna manera voy a prestarle dinero nuevamente.Ain't no way I'm lending him money again.
- Ni de coña voy a ir a esa fiesta.There is no way I'm going to that party.
- Ni de coña me creo esa historia.There is no way I believe that story.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing whether to go hiking in the rain.
- Javier¿Quieres ir de excursión aunque esté lloviendo?Do you want to go hiking even if it's raining?
- Elena¡Ni de coña, Javier!No way, Javier!
- JavierPero no lloverá tanto.But it won't rain that much.
- ElenaPrefiero quedarme en casa.I prefer to stay at home.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries coña, de, ni, CC BY-SA 4.0.
