jo
/jɔ/
The English word "no" is expressed in Albanian as jo.
jo is a particle used to show disagreement or negation.
Meaning: used to show disagreement or negation (particle)
Which one should you use?
While jo is used as a standalone particle to answer a question or express disagreement, nuk is the negative particle used to negate a verb within a sentence. For example, jo can function as the noun for a negating expression or a vote cast not in favor.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
When jo is used at the beginning of a sentence to answer a question, it is often followed by a comma.
How do you pronounce it?
/jɔ/
Did you know?
- In some regions, Albanians may signal jo by slightly tilting their head upward or backward, which can be confusing for visitors expecting a side-to-side shake.
- The Albanian word jo is likely related to the Turkish word yok, which actually means 'there is not' rather than a simple 'no'.
Examples in context
- Jo, nuk më pëlqen aq shumë.No, I really don't like it that much.This sentence shows the use of jo to express a negative preference.Tatoeba #5250513 by hajenso, translation #996973 by thayne
- Jo, nuk jam mësues. Jam vetëm nxënës.No, I'm not a teacher. I'm only a student.This sentence demonstrates using jo to negate an identity or profession.Tatoeba #3100579 by aln, translation #2684545 by CM
- Jo. I kam kërkuar për më shumë se një orë.No. I looked for them for more than an hour.This sentence uses jo as a standalone negative response.Tatoeba #4731236 by hajenso, translation #4788124 by mcelaj
Example conversation
Dritan asks Tea if she is tired.
- DritanA a je e lodhur, Tea?Are you tired, Tea?
- TeaJo, jam shumë mirë.No, I am very well.
- DritanA dëshiron të shkojmë për shëtitje?Do you want to go for a walk?
- TeaJo, më pëlqen të rrij këtu.No, I like staying here.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “no” translations and entries jo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries jo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
