nu, mulțumesc
The English phrase "no, thank you" is translated into Romanian as nu, mulțumesc.
nu, mulțumesc is a straightforward and neutral way to decline an offer or a request in Romanian.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of nu (no) and mulțumesc (I thank).
Which one should you use?
While nu, mulțumesc is the standard form, you may also encounter the formal version Nu, vă mulțumesc or the informal Nu, mersi.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
nu, mulțumesc is neutral. For a more casual and colloquial approach, you can use the informal Nu, mersi, which utilizes the borrowed word "mersi". If you are addressing someone formally, or showing respect to an elder or an authority figure, use Nu, vă mulțumesc.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Transylvania, you might hear the specific phrase Nu, frumos mulțumesc.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word mulțumesc is the first-person singular present indicative form of the verb a mulțumi.
Did you know?
- While nu, mulțumesc is the standard refusal, Romanians may use the phrase nu, vă rog in certain contexts to politely decline, which literally translates to 'no, I pray you'.
- In some regions, particularly among older generations, a polite refusal is often accompanied by a slight shake of the head and a hand gesture pushing away from the body.
- The verb a mulțumi used in mulțumesc shares a root with the word mulțumire, which means both 'gratitude' and 'satisfaction'.
Examples in context
- Nu, mulțumesc, sunt sătulă.No, thank you, I am full.
- Nu, mulțumesc, nu am nevoie de ajutor.No, thank you, I don't need help.
- Nu, mulțumesc, prefer cafeaua.No, thank you, I prefer coffee.
Example conversation
Gabriel offers Andreea a piece of cake.
- GabrielAndreea, vrei o felie de tort?Andreea, do you want a slice of cake?
- AndreeaNu, mulțumesc, Gabriel, nu mai pot.No, thank you, Gabriel, I can't eat any more.
- GabrielSigură? Este foarte bun.Are you sure? It is very good.
- AndreeaDa, sunt sigură, dar mulțumesc mult.Yes, I am sure, but thank you very much.
