niego
“niego” means “I deny” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
I deny
Also: I contradict
📝 In Action
Yo niego categóricamente esa acusación.
B1I categorically deny that accusation.
¿Dices que lo hice? ¡No, yo lo niego!
A2You say I did it? No, I deny it!
Niego tener conocimiento de ese plan.
B2I deny having knowledge of that plan.
I refuse
Also: I withhold
📝 In Action
Niego la entrada a cualquiera sin una invitación.
B1I refuse entry to anyone without an invitation.
Si me pides dinero, te lo niego.
A2If you ask me for money, I refuse (to give it to) you.
Niego mi apoyo a ese candidato.
B2I withhold my support from that candidate.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: niego
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'niego' to mean 'I refuse'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes directly from the Latin verb *negāre*, which had the same core meaning: 'to say no' or 'to refuse.' The original sense has been preserved almost perfectly in Spanish.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'niego' the same as 'no quiero' (I don't want)?
Not exactly. 'No quiero' is a simple statement of desire. 'Niego' is a strong verb meaning 'I deny (a fact)' or 'I actively refuse (a request or permission).' It is much stronger than just saying 'no'.
How do I say 'I denied' in the past?
You would use the preterite form: 'negué'. For example, 'Yo negué que fui allí' (I denied that I went there).