Used to give a negative answer, to refuse something, or to say that something is not true or not allowed. It can also show strong emotion, like surprise or protest.
From Old English 'nā', a combination of 'ne' (not) and 'ā' (ever), meaning 'never'. It has remained short and powerful throughout the history of English.
‘No’ is one of the first words children learn and one of the hardest for adults to say clearly. Entire relationships, careers, and boundaries can hinge on how and when this tiny word is used.
Women’s refusals have historically been dismissed or pressured, especially in contexts of consent, work, and public life, with stereotypes that women’s ‘no’ is negotiable. This has shaped power imbalances and language around boundaries.
Respect ‘no’ as a complete answer, especially regarding consent or participation, regardless of the speaker’s gender; avoid pressuring or reframing a clear ‘no.’
["I’m not interested","That doesn’t work for me","I decline"]
Women and marginalized people have organized to assert that ‘no means no’ and ‘only yes means yes,’ reshaping legal and cultural understandings of consent.
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