nimic
/niˈmik/
The English word "nothing" is translated into Romanian as nimic.
nimic is used to denote not any thing. For example, you can use N-am nimic de adăugat to say "I have nothing to add" or Nu pot spune nimic to mean "I can't say anything".
Meaning: not any thing (pron)
How does it change in a sentence?
In Romanian, when using nimic in a negative sentence, it is used alongside the negative particle nu to create a double negative. This is the standard way to express the concept of "nothing".
How do you pronounce it?
/niˈmik/
Did you know?
- The word nimic originates from the Latin word mica, which means 'crumb'. Literally, saying nimic is like saying there is not even a single crumb left.
- In some regional expressions, the word nimic is used ironically to describe someone who is a 'nobody' or lacks social importance.
- The word nimic is a cognate of the Italian word mica, which is used in Italy to add a nuance of 'not at all' or to express surprise in negative sentences.
Examples in context
- Nimic nu are sens.Nothing makes sense.This sentence shows how to use nimic to say "nothing makes sense".Tatoeba #8433842 by fathe, translation #2249642 by CK
- Nu am nimic de spus.I have nothing to say.This sentence is useful for expressing that you have nimic to say.Tatoeba #9098188 by CataG, translation #249876 by CK
- Sau totul, sau nimic.It's either everything or nothing.This sentence demonstrates the contrast between everything and nimic.Tatoeba #4965851 by elenacristina260, translation #4036841 by eeyinn
- 123 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Elena and Alexandru are looking for their car keys in the living room.
- ElenaNu am găsit nimic în geantă.I found nothing in my bag.
- AlexandruEști sigură că nu e nimic acolo?Are you sure there is nothing there?
- ElenaNu, nu e nimic.No, there is nothing.
- AlexandruAsta e de necrezut.That is unbelievable.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “nothing” translations and entries nimic, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nimic, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
