nay
word
/ˈneɪ/
nay
/nˈeɪ/
nay
Definition
A formal or old-fashioned way of saying "no", especially when voting or expressing disagreement.
Usage & Nuances
Mainly used in formal settings like parliamentary or official votes. Rare in everyday conversation; sounds old-fashioned or poetic. Often contrasted with "yea" (yes). In common speech, simply say "no".
Spanish: no - voto negativo (formal)Portuguese (BR): não - voto negativo (formal)Portuguese (PT): não - voto negativo (formal)Chinese (Simplified): 否 - 反对票 (正式)Chinese (Traditional): 否 - 反對票 (正式)Hindi: नहीं - नकारात्मक वोट (औपचारिक)Arabic: لا - تصويت سلبي (رسمي)Bengali: নাRussian: нетJapanese: いいえVietnamese: khôngKorean: 아니오Turkish: hayırUrdu: نہیںIndonesian: tidak
Example Sentences
He answered nay to the question.
basic
Please say yea or nay.
basic
The council voted nay on the proposal.
basic
All those in favor say yea, all opposed say nay.
natural
Not a single person voted nay at the meeting.
natural
Her answer was a clear nay, leaving no doubt about her opinion.
natural