نہیں — meaning in English: No

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Guess the translation for No

آگاہی

ایک دن

چمچ

نابغہ

نہیں

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use 'نہیں' in a variety of everyday situations, such as declining an offer, answering questions, or expressing disagreement. For instance, if someone asks if you want tea, saying 'نہیں' clearly communicates your refusal in a polite manner.

Synonyms & nuances

'نہیں' serves as the standard term for 'no,' while alternatives like 'نہ' can appear in poetic or literary contexts. You would use 'نہیں' in everyday conversation, as it’s universally understood and appropriate for all situations.

Culture

'نہیں' is more than just a simple negation; it carries cultural weight in polite conversation. In Urdu-speaking societies, it's common to soften refusals, so you might hear phrases like 'نہیں، شکریہ' (No, thank you) to maintain cordiality. This reflects the importance of preserving relationships in communication.

FAQ

Q.How do you pronounce 'نہیں'?

'نہیں' is pronounced as 'nahiin,' where the 'h' is a breathy sound, and the 'ii' is elongated. It's essential to get the pronunciation right for clarity.

Q.Is 'نہیں' used in formal settings?

'نہیں' is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings. It is appropriate for polite refusals in business meetings, as well as casual conversations with friends.

Q.Can 'نہیں' be used to answer questions in different tenses?

Yes, 'نہیں' can be used to negate statements in questions across various tenses. For example, you could respond with 'نہیں' to a past question: 'کیا آپ نے کھانا کھایا؟' (Did you eat?) with a 'نہیں' to mean 'No, I didn't.'

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Urdu Vocabulary