nay
- 01 C2 Proficiency
adv.you use this to introduce a stronger word or a more important point.
adv.used to introduce a more emphatic or precise word than the one just used, often to intensify a description.
Simple“It was a difficult task, nay, an impossible one.”
In context“The proposal was considered ambitious, nay, revolutionary by the standards of the time.”
UsageUsually placed between two adjectives or phrases to intensify the second one.
Synonyms - 02 C2 Proficiency
adv.an old way of saying 'no'.
adv.an archaic or dialectal negative response equivalent to 'no'.
Simple“"Nay, my lord," the servant replied, bowing low.”
In context“The villagers answered with a collective 'nay' when asked if they would support the new tax.”
Teacher's tipIn modern English, this is almost exclusively found in period dramas, historical novels, or specific regional dialects.
- 03 C1 Advanced
n.a vote against something, or a person who votes 'no'.
n.a negative vote in a formal legislative or committee setting.
Simple“The motion failed with twelve ayes and fifteen nays.”
In context“After a heated debate, the speaker called for a voice vote, and the nays clearly outweighed the ayes.”
UsageCommonly used in the plural 'nays' when counting votes.