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How to Say "No" in Norwegian

The SPAIKING TeamJuly 27, 2026
nei
"No" in Norwegian 路 say it like nay

The most natural way to say "No" in Norwegian is nei. Tap the speaker above to hear it, then say it back out loud. That is the fastest way to make it stick.

Other ways to say it

n忙i
a more casual pronunciation often used in spoken language

When to use it

You can use 'nei' in various situations where you need to decline or disagree. It is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. For example, when someone offers you something and you want to refuse, you can simply say 'nei'.

Say it out loud, get corrected

Reading it is not the same as saying it. Practice "No" and thousands more with an AI coach that listens.

Examples in Norwegian

NorwegianEnglish
Vil du ha mer kaffe? Nei, takk.Would you like more coffee? No, thank you.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 'nei' with 'ja' (yes) and use it incorrectly in affirmative sentences.

The fastest way to remember it

Vocabulary you only read fades fast. Vocabulary you say out loud sticks. Hear nei, repeat it a few times, then use it in a real sentence. SPAIKING lets you practice exactly that, speaking Norwegian with a coach that corrects your pronunciation in real time. You can start with two free conversations.

Frequently asked questions

Is 'nei' used in formal situations?

'Nei' is suitable for both formal and informal situations.

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