nein
no · no · no
Nein is the standard German word for 'no'. It is used to answer questions negatively, to refuse something, or to contradict a statement. Germans use it directly and without softening, which can feel blunt to English speakers.
What nein means
- no — as a negative answer to a yes/no question
- no — to refuse an offer or request
- no — to contradict or correct a statement
Heard in real German videos
Lines where nein was actually spoken, from German videos watched with DeutschChat.
- Nein, ich bestehe aber darauf, Chanel.No, but I insist, Chanel.
- Ähm, nein, es ist mir zu dinosaurig.Um, no, it's too dinosaur-y for me.
Example sentences
- Kommst du mit? – Nein, ich habe keine Zeit.Are you coming along? – No, I don't have time.
- Möchtest du noch Kaffee? – Nein, danke.Would you like more coffee? – No, thank you.
- Das ist nicht wahr! – Doch! – Nein!That's not true! – Yes it is! – No it isn't!
Common phrases
- nein dankeno thank you
- nein, wirklich?no, really? (expressing surprise)
- einfach nein sagento simply say no
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers sometimes use 'nein' to answer negative questions where German would use 'doch' to contradict. For example, if someone says 'Du kommst nicht mit?' and you are coming, you must say 'Doch!' not 'Nein!'
Don’t confuse it with
Questions learners ask
What is the difference between nein and nicht?
Nein is used as a standalone answer meaning 'no', while nicht is used to negate verbs, adjectives, or adverbs within a sentence, like 'not'.
When do you use nein instead of kein?
Use nein as a one-word answer or before a comma. Use kein before a noun to mean 'no' or 'not a', e.g., 'kein Problem'.
How do you say 'yes' to a negative question in German?
You use 'doch' to contradict a negative question or statement. For example, 'Hast du keinen Hunger?' – 'Doch, ich habe Hunger.'