How Do You Say “No” in German? 🚫🇩🇪

The word for “no” in German is nein.

The Word for “No” in German

Just like in English, Germans use nein to give a negative answer.

Examples

  • Nein, danke.
    No, thank you.

  • Nein, ich möchte nichts.
    No, I don’t want anything.

  • Nein, das ist nicht richtig.
    No, that’s not correct.




More Examples

  • Hast du Hunger? – Nein.
    Are you hungry? – No.

  • Nein, ich spreche kein Französisch.
    No, I don’t speak French.

  • Nein, ich glaube nicht.
    No, I don’t think so.



  • 🌱 Rooted in Meaning

    The German nein comes from Old High German nein, meaning simply not or no.

    It’s short, sharp, and clear — one of the first words every learner masters, and essential in everyday speech.



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