rárá
The English word 'no' is expressed in Yoruba through several forms, most commonly rárá. Wiktionary also lists ó tì and bẹ́ẹ̀ kọ́.
Meaning: used to show disagreement or negation (particle)
Ways to say it
| Yoruba |
|---|
| rárá |
| ó tì |
| bẹ́ẹ̀ kọ́ |
In Yoruba, the method you use to say 'no' depends on whether you are providing a simple negation, expressing emphasis or negating a specific manner or description. rárá is the most common way to answer a yes/no question with a simple 'no'.
Which one should you use?
While rárá is the standard answer for yes/no questions, it is also used to provide an emphatic 'no'. The form bẹ́ẹ̀ kọ́ serves a different purpose, acting as a way to say 'not so' or 'not like that' to negate a specific manner or how something is being described. The form ó tì is another option for negation.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form bẹ́ẹ̀ kọ́ is used specifically to negate a manner, carrying the meaning of 'not like that'.
Did you know?
- When disagreeing with an elder, a blunt rárá can be perceived as a sign of disrespect, leading many to use a softer tone or a physical head tilt to cushion the refusal.
- Depending on the pitch used, a negation like rárá can be shifted to function as a surprised exclamation or a question rather than a statement.
- The phrase bẹ́ẹ̀ kọ́ is frequently used as a signal to tell a listener that the speaker is about to provide the correct version of a story or event.
Examples in context
- Rárá, mi ò lè ṣe é.No, I cannot do it.
- Rárá, n kò rí i.No, I did not see it.
- Rárá, mi ò fẹ́ lọ.No, I do not want to go.
Example conversation
Morenike asks Babatunde if he has finished his work.
- MorenikeBabatunde, ǹjẹ́ o parí iṣẹ́ rẹ?Babatunde, have you finished your work?
- BabatundeRárá, mi ò tíì parí rẹ̀.No, I haven't finished it yet.
- MorenikeṢé o ní ìyànjú?Do you need help?
- BabatundeRárá, mo le ṣe é.No, I can do it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “no” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
