Inklingo

How to Say "no way!" in Spanish

English → Spanish

anda

/an-da//ˈan.da/

InterjectionA2Informal
Use 'anda' as an interjection to express surprise or disbelief, similar to 'wow!' or 'get out of here!' when something unexpected happens.
A cartoon character with wide eyes and a shocked expression, holding their hands close to their chest in surprise.

Examples

¡Anda, no me digas que has ganado la lotería!

No way, you're telling me you won the lottery!

¡Anda, qué sorpresa verte aquí!

Wow, what a surprise to see you here!

¡Anda, no te creo! ¿De verdad ganaste la lotería?

No way, I don't believe you! Did you really win the lottery?

Anda, vamos, que se nos hace tarde.

Come on, let's go, we're running late.

olvídate

InterjectionB2Informal
Employ 'olvídate' to convey that something is completely impossible or out of the question, often used in a dismissive or emphatic way.

Examples

¿Crees que te voy a prestar mi coche? ¡Olvídate!

You think I'm going to lend you my car? No way!

pistolas

pees-TOH-lahs/pisˈtolas/

InterjectionC1Informal
Choose 'pistolas' to express a firm rejection or refusal, often in response to a request that you cannot or will not fulfill.
A high quality storybook illustration of a character vehemently holding up a hand with an open palm, signaling a firm stop or refusal.

Examples

—¿Me das tu bicicleta? —¡Pistolas! La necesito.

—Can I have your bike? —No way! I need it.

—¿Me prestas tu carro? —¡Pistolas! Está dañado.

"Will you lend me your car?" "No way! It's damaged."

¡Pistolas con eso! No quiero oír más quejas.

Stop it with that! I don't want to hear any more complaints.

Exclamatory Use

When used as an interjection, the meaning is completely figurative, expressing strong refusal or a command to stop. It’s usually shouted or said with emphasis.

Choosing between 'anda', 'olvídate', and 'pistolas'

Learners often confuse these terms by using 'anda' for impossibility or refusal. Remember, 'anda' is primarily for surprise, while 'olvídate' strongly signals impossibility, and 'pistolas' is a direct refusal.

Related Translations

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