"Nah" is a casual, slang way of saying "no," used by many English speakers in informal settings (like texts or with friends) for simple negation, polite refusal, or even dismissal, but it's especially popular and nuanced in Australia and New Zealand, often appearing in phrases like "yeah, nah" (meaning "no") and "nah, yeah" (meaning "yes"), adding layers of subtle communication. While it's been around since the 1700s, its usage, particularly in combinations like "yeah, nah," signifies a nuanced way to disagree politely or soften a refusal, making it a common part of informal conversation globally.
Yeah nah is a commonly used Australian phrase and colloquialism. The phrase yeah nah means 'no', but it allows the speaker or writer to ease into their response so as to not come across as too outspoken, or brash.
It's a colloquial way of agreeing with your negative statement or responding to an assumptive questioning of something negative.
While "nah" isn't inherently rude, it can be perceived as blunt or dismissive depending on the context and your relationship with the person you're communicating with. In formal settings, using "no" is always more appropriate.
Kiwis are exceptionally agreeable, so even when they want to disagree with you, they'll throw in a "yeah" as well. Basically, "yeah, nah" is a non-committal way of saying no. As in: "Do you want to go for a hike this weekend?" "Yeah, nah, I'll think about it ay."
The most Australian thing to say often involves casual abbreviations, laid-back optimism like "She'll be right" or "No worries," and unique slang for everyday items, such as "Arvo" (afternoon) or "Barbie" (barbecue), often delivered with "mate," making phrases like "G'day, mate, chuck us a coldie at the barbie this arvo?" quintessentially Aussie.
We refer to ourselves as Kiwis, so you're fine. It's not a slur. Technically correct would be "New Zealander" but that's less common than Kiwi.
(slang) Initialism of no reason boner.
Nah is a pronunciation found in some American dialects as well as in Cockney English.
The earliest known use of the adverb nah is in the early 1700s. OED's earliest evidence for nah is from 1720, in the writing of Alexander Pennecuik, physician and poet.
a) “Nah”: A very casual way of saying no. Example: “Want to grab a coffee?” “Nah, I'm good, thanks.”
'Nah' is an informal version of the word 'no'. The term is mostly used in the language of texting or casual writing. It is also used while speaking to friends. The term has been used since the first half of the twentieth century.
Synonyms: No, nope, nah, negative, never.
A "bogan" in Australia (and New Zealand) is slang for an uncouth, unsophisticated, or unrefined person, often from a working-class background, characterized by specific tastes, fashion (like mullets, flannelette shirts), speech, and behavior, though the term can be derogatory, humorous, or even self-adopted, depending on context and intent, referring to a laid-back, anti-establishment attitude rather than just poverty.
Woop Woop is used to refer to a place in the middle of nowhere. People use it to signify that a location is far away, unfamiliar to them, and difficult to get to.
Generation Z demonstrates the highest slang engagement rates, with 98% using informal language compared to 81% of Baby Boomers. However, this enthusiasm comes with significant risks.
/nɔː/ (Scottish English, Northern British English, North American English, informal) no, used when answering a question.
Na (Nah) is a dialect of Bangni, a Sino-Tibetan language spoken in India. Na is spoken in nine villages of Taksing Circle, Upper Subansiri District, Arunachal Pradesh (Pertin 1994:1). There are four clans, namely Chedar, Hafi, Tisi, and Hari.
One such acronym that has woven itself into the fabric of digital conversation is "BRB." You might have seen it pop up in a chat or text message, and if you're wondering what it means, let me assure you—it's simply an abbreviation for "Be Right Back."
Custom printed mug featuring the Urban Dictionary definition: 19th century slang which was popularized more recently by the movie Tombstone. Means "I'm the man you're looking for". Nowdays it's usually used as a response to a threat or challenge, as in the movie.
What does NRS mean on Snapchat? No Replies. Used to let others know that someone will be offline and unable to send snaps for a while.
It is particularly crude to pick at your nose in public. Spitting in public places and/or in front of people is considered extremely rude. It is common for New Zealanders to greet people with a brief 'Hello' when you walk past them. It is expected you respond with a greeting in return or a smile of acknowledgement.
Pakeha, which is a Maori term for the white inhabitants of New Zealand, was in vogue even prior to 1815. Its original meaning and origin are obscure, but the following are possible origins, the first being the most probable: From pakepakeha: imaginary beings resembling men. From pakehakeha: one of the sea gods.
Kiwi call at night to mark their territory and stay in touch with their mates. The best time to listen for a kiwi calling is on a moonless night, up to two hours after dark, and just before dawn. That's when kiwi stir from their burrows and call to make contact with their partner or family, and to mark their territory.