mejor no
/mexoɾ no/from spelling rules
The English phrase "how about no" can be translated into Spanish as mejor no.
mejor no is used to express a firm, often dismissive refusal to a suggestion or proposal.
Meaning: Expression of vehement refusal. (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase mejor no literally translates to "better not".
How do you pronounce it?
/mexoɾ no/
Did you know?
- The word mejor shares a common ancestor with the English word 'ameliorate' meaning to make something better.
- While mejor no is common, some Spanish speakers use a simple ni hablar to convey the same 'how about no' energy, which literally means 'don't even talk'.
- In Spanish, saying mejor no can be a polite way to decline a drink or food while implying you are already full or satisfied.
Examples in context
- ¿Vamos a la fiesta esta noche? / Ni hablar. No me gustan las fiestas ruidosas.Shall we go to the party tonight? / No way. I don't like noisy parties.
- Mejor no, no tengo ganas de salir.How about no, I don't feel like going out.
- ¿Quieres ir al cine? Mejor no.Do you want to go to the movies? How about no.
- Mejor no, es demasiado peligroso.How about no, it's too dangerous.
Example conversation
Alejandro asks María to try a very spicy dish.
- Alejandro¿Quieres probar este chile picante?Do you want to try this spicy chili?
- MaríaMejor no, me quema la lengua.How about no, it burns my tongue.
- AlejandroEs un poco fuerte, ¿verdad?It's a bit strong, right?
- MaríaSí, prefiero algo más suave.Yes, I prefer something milder.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mejor, no, CC BY-SA 4.0.
