Greetings! If you’re looking to expand your Spanish vocabulary and want to know how to say “not ours” in this rich and expressive language, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express “not ours” in Spanish, with tips, examples, and even a few regional variations. So, without further ado, vamos a empezar (let’s get started)!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Not Ours” in Spanish
When it comes to using formal language, Spanish provides different options to express the concept of “not ours.” Let’s take a look at some phrases and examples:
1. No es nuestro
The simplest and most straightforward way to say “not ours” in a formal context is by using the phrase “No es nuestro.” This phrase can refer to a singular object or multiple objects. For example:
No es nuestro libro. (It’s not ours.)
Esos documentos no son nuestros. (Those documents are not ours.)
2. No es de nuestra propiedad
If you want to convey a sense of ownership and formality, you can use the phrase “No es de nuestra propiedad,” which directly translates to “It’s not of our ownership.” Here are a couple of examples:
Esa casa no es de nuestra propiedad. (That house is not ours.)
El vehículo no es de nuestra propiedad. (The vehicle is not ours.)
3. No pertenece a nosotros
To emphasize possession and formality even further, you can opt for the phrase “No pertenece a nosotros,” which means “It doesn’t belong to us.” Here are a few examples:
La responsabilidad de ese proyecto no pertenece a nosotros. (The responsibility for that project doesn’t belong to us.)
Esas joyas no pertenecen a nosotros. (Those jewels don’t belong to us.)
Informal Ways to Say “Not Ours” in Spanish
Now, let’s explore some informal expressions to say “not ours” in Spanish. Informal language is commonly used among friends, family, or in casual conversations. Here are a few phrases to keep in mind:
1. No es nuestro rollo
This phrase is a popular informal way of saying “not our thing” in Spanish. It’s commonly used to express disinterest or lack of appeal. Here’s an example:
Esa película no es nuestro rollo. (That movie is not our thing.)
2. No nos pertenece
In an informal context, you can also use the phrase “No nos pertenece,” which has a similar meaning to “It doesn’t belong to us.” Here’s an example:
Esa responsabilidad no nos pertenece. (That responsibility doesn’t belong to us.)
Regional Variations of “Not Ours” in Spanish
Spanish is a wonderfully diverse language, and different regions may have their own unique expressions. While the phrases mentioned earlier are widely understood across the Spanish-speaking world, it’s interesting to note some regional variations:
1. No es nuestro/a(s) / No es nuestro rollo / No nos pertenece
These phrases are commonly used in Spain, Mexico, and most Latin American countries.
2. No es de nosotros / No es de nuestra incumbencia
In some parts of Latin America, particularly Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay, you may encounter these expressions to convey “not ours” formally.
3. No le corresponde / No nos toca
In certain Central American countries, such as Costa Rica and Honduras, these phrases are used to express “not ours” in formal contexts.
Tips for Using “Not Ours” in Spanish
Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind when using these phrases:
- Context matters: Consider the situation and choose the appropriate level of formality or informality.
- Listen and observe: Pay attention to native speakers while conversing or watching Spanish media to further enhance your understanding of these phrases.
- Practice: The more you use these expressions in conversations or writing, the more confident you’ll become.
In Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now learned various ways to say “not ours” in Spanish, catering to both formal and informal contexts. Remember to choose the appropriate phrase based on the level of formality required and the region you’re in or communicating with. With practice and exposure to the language, you’ll continue to expand your Spanish vocabulary. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
