Portuguese Phrase
Não, não estou bem.
Meaning
This phrase is a direct way to express that you are not feeling good, either physically or emotionally. The repetition of 'não' at the beginning is common in Portuguese for emphasis and clarity, where the first 'não' acts as the answer to a question and the second negates the verb.
When to use
Use this when someone asks 'Tudo bem?' (Is everything okay?) and you want to be honest about not feeling fine. It is appropriate in personal conversations with friends, family, or in a medical context.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Não,nãoestoubem.
Double Negative
In Portuguese, it is standard to use a double negative for emphasis when answering a question negatively.
Estar (estou)
The verb 'estar' is used for temporary conditions, such as current health or feelings, unlike 'ser' which is for permanent traits.
🗨In Conversation
Oi, tudo bem com você?
Hi, is everything okay with you?
Não, não estou bem.
No, I am not well.
✕Common Mistakes
Não, não sou bem.
Avoid using the verb 'ser' for temporary states like health or mood; 'estar' is the correct choice here.
Não, não estou bom.
Use the adverb 'bem' (well) to describe your state of being rather than the adjective 'bom' (good).
↔Alternatives
Estou mal.
I am doing badly.
Não me sinto muito bem.
I don't feel very well.
Cultural Tip
In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, 'Tudo bem?' is a standard greeting where a positive 'Tudo' is the expected polite response. Saying 'Não, não estou bem' is a significant social cue that you have a genuine problem or illness you wish to discuss.