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Tone Tips - No

Brian L

Different Ways to Say “No”!

Today’s quick tip is about a simple but important word: “No.”

There are many natural ways to say it, and the tone changes depending on the situation.

Here are some common, easy options:

  • No thanks. → Polite & casual

  • Not really. → Gentle & indirect

  • I’m afraid not. → Polite & formal

  • Nope. → Very casual & friendly

  • Unfortunately, no. → Formal & regretful

Each one has a slightly different feeling. Which would you use with a friend? A coworker? A client?

Want to sound more natural and confident in English?
Book a lesson with me to practice tone and conversation skills.

 

See you soon!
Brian

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This column was published by the author in their personal capacity.
The opinions expressed in this column are the author's own and do not reflect the view of Cafetalk.

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