adv
Common
na
nah
Na (adv) means Not; no (used to negate a word or statement, especially in dialect or informal speech). Example: “I'm na going to the party, because I have to work early.”
adv
1
Not; no (used to negate a word or statement, especially in dialect or informal speech).
"I'm na going to the party, because I have to work early."
""Are you coming?" "Na, I'll stay home.""
"He's na fool — he knew exactly what he was doing."
intj
1
Used on its own as an informal way of saying no.
"Na, I'll walk home tonight, thanks anyway."
"Na, I don't think that's a good idea at all."
""Do you want more tea?" "Na, I'm good.""
How to use na
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA short, informal way of saying "no" or "not," common in casual speech and some dialects (especially Scottish and Northern English).
When to use it
Very informal — fine in speech and texting, but avoid in formal writing.
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I'm _____ going to the party, because I have to work early.
Etymology
From Old English nā, itself a fusion of ne ("not") and ā ("ever") — the same root that eventually gave us "no."
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “na” mean?
The word “na” means not; no (used to negate a word or statement, especially in dialect or informal speech). In plain terms, a short, informal way of saying "no" or "not," common in casual speech and some dialects (especially Scottish and Northern English).
How do you pronounce “na”?
“Na” is pronounced nah (/nɑː/ in IPA).
How do you use “na” in a sentence?
Here is “na” used in a sentence: “"Are you coming?" "Na, I'll stay home.".”
What part of speech is “na”?
Depending on how it is used, “na” can be an adverb and an intj.
Where does the word “na” come from?
The word “na” comes from Old English. From Old English nā, itself a fusion of ne ("not") and ā ("ever") — the same root that eventually gave us "no.".
Is “na” a common word?
“Na” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “na” have?
“Na” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: not; no (used to negate a word or statement, especially in dialect or informal speech).
What does 'na' mean?
As a dialect or informal word, 'na' means 'not' or 'no.' It is used to negate a word or statement, much like standard English 'no' or 'not.' It appears mainly in regional speech and casual writing rather than formal English, where 'no' and 'not' are preferred.
Is 'na' the same as 'nah'?
They are closely related but not identical. 'Nah' is a relaxed, informal way of saying 'no,' common in casual speech worldwide. 'Na' also negates, but it is more tied to particular dialects and can stand for 'not' as well as 'no.' Both are informal and best avoided in formal writing.
Is 'na' formal or informal?
'Na' is informal. It belongs to dialect and casual, spoken English rather than standard written English. In formal or professional contexts, you should use 'no' or 'not' instead. Writers sometimes spell it 'na' to capture the sound of regional or relaxed speech in dialogue.
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