Not at all

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'Not at all' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it in order to politely reject a proposal, or to express that you disagree with a statement. For example, "Would you like a second helping of dinner?" "No, not at all, I'm very full."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Not at all, no.

Independent

Not at all, Gwendolen.

The New Yorker

Not at all, actually.

The New York Times

Not at all so.

The New York Times

— Not at all, said Seán.

The New Yorker

Not at all," Macalister said.

The New Yorker

Not at all, says Allianz.

The Economist

"Not at all," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Not at all," she says.

The New Yorker

"Not at all," Hynd replied.

Independent

"Not at all, no way!

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Not at all" to politely negate a statement or request, especially when someone is expressing gratitude or concern.

Common error

While generally versatile, using "Not at all" as a response to sincere apologies in highly formal settings can come across as dismissive. Opt for phrases like "It's alright" or "No worries" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Not at all" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase used for negation or polite response. Ludwig AI highlights its usage across various contexts, confirming its role in directly refuting a statement or dismissing gratitude.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

21%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Not at all" is a versatile phrase used for negation, offering reassurance, or responding to gratitude. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage, showing that it is grammatically correct and appropriate in many situations. The phrase is common in news and media, science, and general conversation. When using "Not at all", remember to consider the context and formality level to ensure it conveys the intended meaning effectively. Alternatives like "by no means" or "don't mention it" can provide nuanced variations in expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

By no means

This alternative is a more formal way of expressing strong disagreement or denial.

In no way

Similar to "by no means", this phrase emphasizes the impossibility of something.

Absolutely not

This alternative adds emphasis to a negative response.

Not in the least

This phrase indicates a complete absence of something, like interest or concern.

Not in the slightest

This emphasizes that something is not even remotely true or present.

No way

An informal and direct way to say "no".

Of course not

Implies that the suggestion or statement is obviously false or undesirable.

Certainly not

A more formal version of "of course not".

Don't mention it

Used as a polite response to thanks, indicating that the speaker doesn't consider the act significant.

You're welcome

A standard polite response to thanks.

FAQs

How can I use "Not at all" in a sentence?

"Not at all" can be used to politely decline something, negate an idea, or to respond to thanks. For example, "Would you mind helping me with this?" "Not at all, I'd be glad to."

What are some alternatives to "Not at all"?

You can use alternatives like "by no means", "absolutely not", or "don't mention it", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "Not at all"?

It is appropriate to use "Not at all" when you want to politely disagree, reassure someone, or respond to an expression of gratitude. It's generally versatile in both formal and informal contexts.

Is "Not at all" the same as "You're welcome"?

While both are responses to gratitude, "Not at all" implies that the action was no trouble, while "You're welcome" is a more general acknowledgement. Using "don't mention it" is also close to "not at all".