Assamese, the official language of the northeastern state of Assam in India, is influenced by rich cultural heritage. Politeness is highly regarded in Assamese culture, even when expressing disagreement or saying “no.” In this guide, we will explore various ways to say no in Assamese, including formal and informal ways. We will also provide tips, examples, and touch upon regional variations where necessary. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Saying No Formally
When it comes to formal situations, Assamese has several phrases and expressions to convey a respectful decline. These phrases are suitable for professional environments, formal gatherings, or when interacting with respected elders or authorities.
1.1 Saying No Politely
1. “Nahoi.” – This is a polite and straightforward way to say “no” in Assamese. It is a simple negative response used in various formal contexts.
Example:
Person A: “Apuni etiya murjane asiba?”
(Would you like to come to my house?)Person B: “Nahoi.”
(No.)
2. “Na, diba ne.” – This phrase, which translates to “No, I will not give,” can be used to politely decline an offer or a request.
Example:
Person A: “Eti bisarisu moi mur jui debo.”
(I want to borrow your pen.)Person B: “Na, diba ne.”
(No, I will not give.)
1.2 Saying No Respectfully
1. “Dhanyabad, kintu mur kora nopau/ai nohob.” – This phrase means “Thank you, but I cannot do it.” It is a polite way to decline offers or invitations while expressing gratitude for the consideration.
Example:
Person A: “Tumar sokulu khua ki labh hobo?”
(Can you lend me your bicycle?)Person B: “Dhanyabad, kintu mur kora nopau.”
(Thank you, but I cannot do it.)
2. “Dhanyabad, kintu aru koriba nopau.” – This phrase means “Thank you, but I won’t be able to do anything else.” It politely conveys a decline while emphasizing the inability to offer additional assistance.
Example:
Person A: “Tumar upahar ixonu?”
(Can you help me with a favor?)Person B: “Dhanyabad, kintu aru koriba nopau.”
(Thank you, but I won’t be able to do anything else.)
2. Saying No Informally
Informal situations among friends, peers, or relatives allow for a more casual way to say “no” in Assamese. Here are some popular phrases you can use:
2.1 Saying No Casually
1. “Nohoi.” – This is the informal equivalent of the formal phrase “Nahoi.” It is a simple, straightforward way to say “no” among peers.
Example:
Person A: “Dibru College jaabo?”
(Shall we go to Dibru College?)Person B: “Nohoi.”
(No.)
2. “Mathe na.” – This phrase can be used to casually reject something or disagree with someone.
Example:
Person A: “Eta tume poribo?”
(Will you read this?)Person B: “Mathe na.”
(No, I won’t read it.)
2.2 Saying No Lightly
1. “Ka dhekhabo ahise/ahini.” – This phrase humorously means “This is what I came to see/experience.” It can be used playfully to decline or express amusement without a direct refusal.
Example:
Person A: “Tumak Sapna Barua diya mejot poriba?”
(Will you perform Sapna Barua’s dance?)Person B: “Ka dhekhabo ahini.”
(This is what I came to see.)
2. “Aitu buli ne heu.” – This phrase is a humorous way to say “not happening” or “no way.” It can be used among friends to convey a light-hearted refusal.
Example:
Person A: “Bhoojpool kori nei?”
(Shall we go skydiving?)Person B: “Aitu buli ne heu.”
(No way.)
3. Regional Variations
Assamese is spoken in various regions within Assam, which gives rise to some regional variations in language usage. While the core phrases mentioned above are generally understood throughout Assam, you may come across slight differences in pronunciation or vocabulary in different parts of the state.
Remember, regardless of regional variation, politeness is key when conveying a negative response, whether formally or informally.
Conclusion
Now you have a comprehensive understanding of how to say “no” in Assamese. Remember to maintain a warm and polite tone, even when declining a request or expressing disagreement. Whether you are in a formal or informal situation, use these phrases to communicate effectively with Assamese speakers. Practice makes perfect, so try integrating these expressions into your everyday conversations. Dhanyabad!
