ní hea, go raibh maith agat
The Irish way to say "no thanks" is ní hea, go raibh maith agat.
This phrase is used as a polite way to decline an offer or an invitation.
Did you know?
- While go raibh maith agat translates to 'thanks', it literally uses a subjunctive mood, expressing a wish that the person 'have' goodness.
- The Irish language often prefers a 'double' politeness, combining a negative response with a gratitude phrase like go raibh maith agat to avoid appearing blunt.
- The word maith in the phrase is a direct relative of the Welsh word mad and the Cornish word mas, both of which also mean 'good'.
Examples in context
- Ní bheidh gá orm, tá go leor agam. Go raibh maith agat.No thanks, I have plenty. Thank you.
Example conversation
Conor offers Aoife a piece of cake.
- ConorAn bhfuil piece cáca agat, a Aoife?Would you like a piece of cake, Aoife?
- AoifeNí hea, go raibh maith agat, a Chonaire.No thanks, Conor.
- ConorAre you sure?Are you sure?
- AoifeTá, tá mé go hiontach.Yes, I am great.
