Not Just NO: Three Ways to Politely Say 'No' in English
'09.12.2022'
Saying “no” can be done in different ways. It all depends on who we are talking to and in what situation. Simply terminating a dialogue or conversation with the word “no” is undesirable – it can sound very rude, the blog author explains. “Dmitry K - English online” on Yandex.Zen.
Therefore, the author offers several softer options. Gradation is conditional, everything is used in approximately equal frequency.
Method 1. Polite
- Is this building open on Saturday?
- No, I don't think so.
In Russian:
- Is this building open on Saturday?
- No I do not think so. (No, I do not think so).
With such a phrase (I don't think so) we express not one hundred percent certainty.
Method 1.1. Polite categorical
To refuse still politely, but more categorically and formally, use the phrase I think not.
- This could be a coincidence, but I think not.
- It could be a coincidence, but I don't think so.
Method 2. Fashionable youth
This is probably one of the most common options. Very similar to the Russian equivalent.
- Do want something to drink?
- No, thank you.
Or - No, thanks. This option is the most common if you communicate among peers.
- Would you like something to drink?
- No thanks.
On the subject: Phrasal verbs in English: simple rules of use with examples
Method 3. Definitely not
- Are you going to buy this car?
- No way!
Translation:
- Are you going to buy this car?
- Never!
A very emotional response. Sometimes it is used not for denial, but for conditional distrust of what was said. For example:
- I won a million of dollars!
- No way!
Translation:
- I won a million dollars!
- Yah!
Original column published on the blog. "Dmitry K - English online" on "Yandex.Zen".
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