naw
word
/ˈnɑ/
/ˈnɒː/
Definition
An informal or dialectal way of saying 'no' or 'nah'. Often used in casual speech and certain regional dialects to express disagreement or refusal.
Usage & Nuances
Very informal — avoid in writing or formal contexts. Common in Southern US English and Scottish dialects. Similar to 'nah' but can sound more drawn out. Often conveys a laid-back or dismissive tone. Spelling varies: naw, nah, na.
Spanish: no - qué vaPortuguese (BR): não - nãPortuguese (PT): não - nãChinese (Simplified): 不 - 才不呢Chinese (Traditional): 不 - 才不呢Hindi: नहीं - नाArabic: لا - ماBengali: না (informal) - না-রে (dialectal, informal)Russian: не-а - нет (разг.)Japanese: いや（カジュアル） - ううん（とてもくだけた言い方）Vietnamese: không (thân mật) - không đâu (thân mật, miền Nam)Korean: 아니 (비격식) - 아냐 (구어체)Turkish: yoo - yok (argo)Urdu: نہیں (غیر رسمی) - نہ (علاقائی/مزاحیہ)Indonesian: nggak - nggak ah (tidak formal)
Example Sentences
Naw, I don't think that's a good idea.
basic
Naw, thanks, I already ate.
basic
You really think he's coming back? Naw, he's done with this place.
natural
Naw, man, you got the wrong number.
natural
She asked if I wanted to go clubbing and I was like, naw, I'm staying in tonight.
natural
Do you want some coffee? Naw, I'm good.
basic