No is an English word which has a negative meaning. It is the opposite of the word Yes, which is a positive term.
No is used when someone is turning away something. It is used when opposing an idea, as well. It can also be used in different figures of speech.
In both sentences and talking, the words "No" and the word "Not" can both be used, though the word "No" is mainly used when speaking to other people. In some cases, however, "Not" is not acceptable, and vice versa. These words are not to be confused with the similar sounding words know and knot.
Examples of proper usage of "No" and "Not":
- Is this green? No, it is not.
- There is no way round the back.
- This is not the way (but there is another way).
- I will not come.
- Oh, no!
- No, thank you.
- Not on my watch!
Examples of improper usage of "No" and "Not":
- That is no the way you do it.
- Oh not!
- I know how to tie a knot. (Disambiguation)
- I didn't no that!
- I can no go.
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