# nope

/ˈnoʊp/ (US) · /nˈəʊp/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Interjection

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nope
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

a casual way to say no. You use it when you want to sound relaxed or a bit funny with friends.

For teachers: an informal or emphatic variant of 'no' used to express negation or refusal. Often used as a complete sentence in casual spoken discourse.

## Examples

- Did you finish your homework? Nope.
- I asked if they wanted to go for a run in the rain, but they just said 'nope' and stayed on the sofa.
- While a simple 'no' might suffice in most professional settings, 'nope' carries a colloquial finality that signals a relaxed relationship between the speakers.

## Usage notes

- Functions as a standalone negative response; generally considered too informal for academic or professional writing.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.