Jonathan Rodney
Greetings! In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “no” in Nepali, both formally and informally, providing you with various tips and examples along the way. Let’s get started!
Formal Ways to Say No
When it comes to formal situations, it is important to show respect and politeness while declining. Here are some phrases you can use:
“होइन, धेरै धेरै धन्यवाद।” (Ho’in, dherai dherai dhanyavaad.) – No, thank you very much.
In this case, you are expressing your gratitude while politely declining the offer or request.
“मैले स्वीकार गर्न सक्दैन।” (Maile sweekar garnu sakdaina.) – I cannot accept.
This phrase clearly communicates your inability to accept the proposition without sounding rude.
Informal Ways to Say No
Informal situations allow for a more casual tone, although maintaining politeness is still important. Here are a few ways to say “no” informally:
“होइन। तर माफ गर्नुस्।” (Ho’in. Tara maaf garnus.) – No. But sorry.
By using this phrase, you are effectively declining while also expressing your regret or apology.
“म गर्न सक्दिनँ।” (Ma garn sakdinna.) – I cannot do it.
This phrase communicates your limitation without sounding impolite or dismissive.
Additional Tips:
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when saying no in Nepali:
- Be respectful: Incorporate polite markers and expressions to show respect.
- Use body language: Match your verbal response with appropriate body language, such as gentle eye contact and a warm smile.
- Offer explanations (if needed): Sometimes, it may be helpful to provide a brief explanation when declining, especially in formal situations. However, keep it concise.
- Consider tone and volume: Ensure your tone remains friendly and soft-spoken while declining.
Now, let’s explore a few examples to demonstrate these tips in action:
Situation 1:
Person A: के तपाईँले मलाई उचित समयमा सहयोग गर्न सक्नुहुन्छ? (Ke tapaiṁle malai uchit samayama sahayog garna sknunuhunna?) – Can you help me at the appropriate time?
Person B: होइन, धेरै धेरै धन्यवाद। मैले थाहा पाउनुभयो, तर म यो समयमा नगर्ने छु। (Ho’in, dherai dherai dhanyavaad. Maile thaha paunubhayo, tara ma yo samayama na garne chu.) – No, thank you very much. I understand, but I won’t be able to do it at this time.
Situation 2:
Person A: यो कामले गर्ने समय लाग्छ? (Yo kamale garne samaya laagcha?) – Does this task take a lot of time?
Person B: माफ गर्नुस्, तर मैले यो काम गर्न आफ्नो समय खोज्न सक्दैन। (Maaf garnus, tar maile yo kaam garna afno samay khojn sakdaina.) – Sorry, but I can’t find time to do this work.
Situation 3:
Person A: तपाईँले मलाई यहाँ आउन सक्नुहुन्छ? (Tapaiṁle malai yaha aunu sknunuhunna?) – Can you come here?
Person B: म यसमा आउन सक्दिनँ, क्यारो छ। (Ma yasma aunu sakdinna, kyaaro cha.) – I can’t come, I’m busy.
We hope these examples illustrate the usage of different phrases and expressions when saying no in Nepali. Remember to adapt them according to the specific situation.
Remember, saying no is a part of effective communication, and it can be done politely and respectfully. We hope this guide helps you in navigating such situations in Nepali with ease and warmth. Best of luck!
