Spanish Phrase
No sé.
Meaning
This is the standard and most common way to express a lack of knowledge or information in Spanish. It combines the negation 'no' with the first-person singular present tense of the verb 'saber', which refers to knowing facts or data.
When to use
Use this phrase in any situation—formal or informal—when someone asks you a question for which you do not have the answer. It is a direct and clear response.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nosé
Negation (No)
In Spanish, to make a sentence negative, you simply place the word 'no' directly before the conjugated verb.
Irregular Verb (Sé)
'Sé' is the irregular first-person singular form of 'saber'. The written accent is crucial to distinguish it from the reflexive pronoun 'se'.
🗨In Conversation
¿A qué hora cierra la tienda?
What time does the store close?
No sé. Creo que a las ocho.
I don't know. I think at eight.
✕Common Mistakes
No sabo.
The verb 'saber' is highly irregular in the first person singular; 'sabo' is a common mistake even among native-speaking children.
No conozco.
Use 'saber' for facts and information, whereas 'conocer' is used for being acquainted with people, places, or complex topics.
↔Alternatives
Ni idea.
No idea.
No tengo la menor idea.
I don't have the slightest idea.
No estoy seguro.
I am not sure.
Cultural Tip
While 'No sé' is perfectly correct, in many Spanish-speaking cultures, people prefer to soften the delivery by adding 'Lo siento' (I'm sorry) or 'La verdad, no sé' (To be honest, I don't know) to avoid sounding dismissive. In some regions, a quick shrug or a specific facial expression can accompany the phrase.