What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
no
Example
No, I don't want to go to the party. [no: adverb]
Example
There is no milk in the fridge. [no: determiner]
Example
No smoking allowed in this area. [no: adjective]
negative
Example
The test results came back negative for COVID-19. [negative: adjective]
Example
He has a negative outlook on life. [negative: adjective]
Example
The proposal received a negative response from the board. [negative: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
No is much more common than negative in everyday language and is used in a wide range of contexts. Negative is less common and is typically used in more formal or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between no and negative?
Negative is generally considered more formal than no, and is often used in technical or academic writing. No, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
