No, thank you.
We'll begin with a simple addition. "No" alone can sound very direct and even unfriendly. If you'd like to make it a bit softer, simply add "thank you" at the end.
I’m afraid not. / Unfortunately, no.
Use these phrases to apologize or show regret for a negative answer.
Strong ways to say “No”
Sometimes you want your rejection to sound forceful and strong, and there are plenty of ways to do this.
Under no circumstances
Use this expression to emphasize that there is no possible way you will agree.
Out of the question.
This is an emphatic way to say "No" or to give a negative response.
Of course not.
This expression implies that the answer to a question is obviously "No."
Most certainly not. / Absolutely not.
These expressions are both very bold. "Most certainly not" sounds a little formal.
Not at all.
This is a strong and straightforward way to say "No."
Casual ways to say “No”
Just because you reject something doesn't mean you have to do it in a serious way; there are many funny and informal ways to do it. Just be sure to only use these expressions with people that you have a close relationship with!
No way, José.
José is a Spanish name, but because its pronunciation rhymes with "no way," people add it to the end for a little bit of fun.
Not in a million years.
This expression basically means "Never"!
When pigs fly.
Since pigs don't have wings, this expression has the same meaning as "not in a million years."
Nope. / Nah.
These are both very informal words, so use them carefully.
Forget it.
This expression is used to strongly reject requests.
Not on your life.
Here is another strong, informal way to reject things. Remember: it's "on your life," not "in your life."
In British English, people often use a variation of this phrase: "Not on your nelly!"
Yeah, right.
People often use positive words sarcastically to express negativity, and "Yeah, right" is a very common example.
Please.
