How to Say "No" in Swahili
The most natural way to say "No" in Swahili is Hapana. 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
When to use it
Use 'hapana' when you want to refuse something or disagree with a statement. It is a straightforward way to say no in everyday conversations. You can use it in both formal and informal settings.
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Examples in Swahili
| Swahili | English |
|---|---|
| Hapana, sitaki kwenda. | No, I don't want to go. |
| Unataka chai? Hapana, asante. | Do you want tea? No, thank you. |
The fastest way to remember it
Vocabulary you only read fades fast. Vocabulary you say out loud sticks. Hear Hapana, repeat it a few times, then use it in a real sentence. SPAIKING lets you practice exactly that, speaking Swahili with a coach that corrects your pronunciation in real time. You can start with two free conversations.
Frequently asked questions
Is 'hapana' used in formal situations?
Yes, 'hapana' can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
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