Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| no | /ˈno/ |
| no pues | /no pwes/ (from spelling rules) |
The word no functions as a particle to show disagreement or to negate a statement. For example, the phrase Lamentablemente, no. translates to "unfortunately, no" and is used to add a touch of regret to a formal response.
Which one should you use?
In English, "no" can be used for both disagreement and negation. In Spanish, no is used for both these purposes, but it is also the required word to negate a verb, such as in no quiero for "I don't want."
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
While no is the standard form, no pues is a colloquial expression used as a filler or reaction.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The phrase no pues is a colloquial filler or reaction used in certain dialects to express resignation, disbelief or to start a response.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The particle no is placed before a verb to create a negative statement, functioning much like the English word "not".
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈno/
Did you know?
- Spanish speakers often use no at the end of a sentence to turn a statement into a question, similar to the English tag 'right?' For example, está frío, ¿no? means 'it is cold, isn't it?'
- In some contexts, saying no while nodding the head can be a way of confirming a negative question. This can lead to confusion for English speakers who associate the nod strictly with 'yes'.
- If you see the word no in a mathematical or counting context, it might actually be a contraction of the Latin word for 'number'.
Examples in context
- No, aún no sé.No, I still don't know.This sentence shows how to use no to express that you still do not know something.Tatoeba #1502230 by marcelostockle, translation #9966252 by DJ_Saidez
- Esto y no más.This and no more.This sentence uses no to indicate a limit or amount.Tatoeba #2268897 by cueyayotl, translation #2268896 by _undertoad
- Yo ya dije no.I already said no.This sentence demonstrates using no to confirm that a refusal has already been voiced.Tatoeba #4563333 by ecorralest101, translation #4562444 by Hybrid
- ¿Podría entregar el informe mañana?Could you deliver the report tomorrow?
- No, lo siento, pero necesitaré más tiempo.No, I'm sorry, but I'll need more time.
- ¿Podrías cubrir mi turno de hoy?Could you cover my shift today?
- Lamentablemente, no puedo. Tengo una reunión importante.Unfortunately, I can't. I have an important meeting.
- ¿Quieres acompañarme al concierto?Do you want to come with me to the concert?
- No, gracias. Tengo planes para esa noche.No, thank you. I have plans for that night.
- ¿Me prestas tu coche para ir de compras?Can I borrow your car to go shopping?
- No, lo siento. Lo necesito para mis propios planes.No, sorry. I need it for my own plans.
- ¿Podrías trabajar horas extra este fin de semana?Could you work extra hours this weekend?
- No, lo siento. Ya tengo planes familiares.No, sorry. I already have family plans.
- 3432 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Javier and Sofía are at home discussing dinner plans.
- Javier¿Quieres comer pizza hoy?Do you want to eat pizza today?
- SofíaNo, no tengo mucha hambre.No, I am not very hungry.
- Javier¿Entonces prefieres una ensalada?Then do you prefer a salad?
- SofíaNo, prefiero algo caliente.No, I prefer something hot.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “no” translations and entries no, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries no, pues, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
