French Phrase
Non, ça va pas.
Meaning
This phrase is a direct, informal way to express that you are not okay or that a situation is going poorly. It is the negative response to the ubiquitous greeting 'Ça va ?' and usually signals that you are open to discussing your problems.
When to use
Use this in casual conversations with friends, family, or colleagues you know well when you want to be honest about your mood. It is too blunt for formal situations or with strangers unless there is an obvious problem.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nonçavapas
Dropped 'Ne'
In informal spoken French, the 'ne' part of the negation 'ne... pas' is almost always dropped for speed.
The Verb Aller
The word 'va' comes from 'aller' (to go), which is the standard verb for expressing health and well-being.
🗨In Conversation
Salut ! Ça va ?
Hi! How's it going?
Non, ça va pas. J'ai oublié mon sac dans le métro.
No, it's not going well. I forgot my bag on the subway.
✕Common Mistakes
Non, je ne suis pas va.
In French, you use the verb 'aller' (to go) to describe how you are, never 'être' (to be).
Non, ça va non.
Use 'pas' to negate the verb; 'non' is only used as a standalone answer or to contradict a statement.
↔Alternatives
Ça ne va pas trop.
It's not going too well.
Pas vraiment.
Not really.
Bof, pas trop.
Meh, not great.
Cultural Tip
In French culture, responding honestly to 'Ça va ?' is more common than in English-speaking cultures where 'Fine' is the default. Saying 'Non, ça va pas' is a social cue that invites the other person to ask what is wrong, so be prepared to explain yourself.