keinen — meaning in English: no

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for no

viele

von

bald

keinen

jetzt

Skip this question

🎓

Learn German for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

informal very common

Usage

Native speakers use 'keinen' when expressing negation regarding quantity or existence, particularly in informal conversations. For example, you might hear it in a café when someone orders and says, 'Ich habe keinen Kaffee' (I have no coffee), or when declining an invitation with 'Ich habe keinen Lust' (I have no desire).

Synonyms & nuances

'Keinen' specifically negates nouns in the accusative case, while 'kein' negates nouns in general. You'd choose 'keinen' when you are directly addressing a specific object, like in 'Ich habe keinen Bruder' (I have no brother), versus 'kein' for a more general negation.

Culture

'Keinen' derives from the Old High German 'nein,' showcasing the transformation of language over centuries. In contemporary German, it’s not just a word for negation; it reflects a broader cultural ethos of directness. Germans are known for their straightforwardness, and using 'keinen' is an example of how they clearly communicate their feelings or lack thereof.

FAQ

Q.What is the difference between 'kein' and 'keinen'?

'Kein' is used for general negation, while 'keinen' is specifically for the accusative case in negating singular masculine nouns. Understanding noun cases in German helps you use these words correctly.

Q.How do you use 'keinen' in a sentence?

To use 'keinen,' follow it with a masculine noun in the accusative case. For example, you can say 'Ich habe keinen Hund' (I have no dog) to specify that you don’t possess a male dog.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'keinen'?

A common mistake is using 'keinen' with a feminine noun. Remember, 'keinen' is only for masculine nouns in the accusative case; for feminine nouns, you'd use 'keine' instead.

Learn german with Maspeak →

German 500