Arabic → English
لَا in English
- Pronunciation
- lā
- Arabizi
la- Type
- interjection
Other meanings
- لا lā — do not · do not
- لا lā — does not · does not
How to use it
The word 'lā' (لا) is very versatile in Arabic. It can be used as a simple 'no' in response to a question. It also functions as a negative particle for present tense verbs ('does not') and as a prohibitive particle for commands ('do not').
Example sentences
-
هل تريد الشاي؟ لا، شكراً.
hal turīdu ash-shay? lā, shukran.
Do you want tea? No, thank you.
-
لا تتأخر عن الموعد.
lā tataʾakhkhar ʿan al-mawʿid.
Do not be late for the appointment.
-
هو لا يأكل اللحم.
huwa lā yaʾkulu al-laḥm.
He does not eat meat.
Questions and answers
What is the difference between 'lā' and 'laysa'?
'Lā' is used to negate present tense verbs (e.g., 'lā yafʿal' - he does not do) and in commands (e.g., 'lā tafʿal' - do not do). 'Laysa' is used to negate nominal sentences, often translating to 'is not' or 'are not' (e.g., 'laysa ṭāliban' - he is not a student).
Can 'lā' be used to answer questions?
Yes, 'lā' is the standard way to say 'no' in Arabic when answering a yes/no question.
Related words and expressions
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