No
everyday, Guatemala
In Guatemala the normal word is No, just as in the rest of the Spanish-speaking world. Among friends you can also hear the slangy Nel, and No, gracias is the polite way to turn something down.
Meaning: negative answer (adverb)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| No | everyday, Guatemala |
| Nel | casual, slang |
| No, gracias | polite |
No works everywhere. Add gracias when someone offers you food, a ride or a product, because a bare No can sound abrupt to a stranger.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Guatemalans use usted more than many other Spanish speakers, even with relatives, so a refusal to an older person is often No, gracias, don Luis or No, señora.
How do you pronounce it?
Nel rhymes with English "bell" and is short and clipped.
Did you know?
- The slangy Nel is also used in Mexico, and a playful reply is Nel, pastel, where the second word only rhymes.
Examples in context
- No, gracias, ya comí.No, thanks, I already ate.
- Nel, hoy no puedo.Nope, I cannot today.
- No, señora, no es mío.No, ma'am, it is not mine.
Example conversation
Doña Rosa offers her neighbor Mario a piece of pie at her door in Antigua Guatemala.
- Doña Rosa¿Quiere un pedazo de pastel, Mario?Would you like a piece of pie, Mario?
- MarioNo, gracias, doña Rosa. Ya almorcé.No, thank you, Doña Rosa. I already had lunch.
- Doña RosaEntonces se lo llevo para su casa.Then I will bring it to your house.
