{
  "id": 8525454,
  "title": "From the archive: How do I know it’s a ‘no’? A comprehensive guide for foreigners",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/19/from-the-archive-how-do-i-know-its-a-no-a-comprehensive-guide-for",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-19T20:00:52.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Mexico News Daily",
    "slug": "mexico-news-daily",
    "url": "https://mexiconewsdaily.com/mexico-living/comprehensive-guide-foreigners-no-mexico/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The purpose of the “From the Archive” series is to revisit popular stories that showcase the unique history and culture of life in Mexico. Sarah DeVries' article, originally published in November 2024, humorously explores why Mexicans avoid saying \"no\" and how to discern when they're conveying a negative message without directly stating it.\n\nMexicans are known for their polite social graces and aversion to negativity. However, interpreting their indirect communication can be challenging, especially for those from more direct cultures. This can lead to confusion and frustration.\n\nThere are several examples of how Mexicans avoid saying \"no\" directly. One such example is when one of the author's students had their car broken into at school, with his radio and CD player stolen. The student's teacher didn't want to spoil the birthday celebration they were attending, so he kept quiet about his missing equipment. This incident demonstrates how Mexicans may keep important information to themselves to avoid upsetting others.\n\nAnother example is the use of phrases like \"a lo mejor sí\" (probably yes) or \"ahorita\" (right now). These phrases can be misleading, as they might not necessarily mean what they seem. \"Ahorita\" in particular can be used as a vague promise that rarely comes to fruition, leading to frustration for the listener.\n\nTo navigate these indirect communications, the author offers a list of phrases that might actually mean \"no.\" One such phrase is \"gracias,\" which can be used to politely decline an offer or invitation. Another is \"a lo mejor sí,\" which is a dismissive way of saying \"no\" with some wiggle room left for a possible \"yes.\" Lastly, \"ahorita\" can be a vague promise that rarely materializes, so it's important to be cautious when interpreting this phrase.",
  "summary": "Mexicans have a strong aversion to saying \"no.\" Here's a simple guide to tell what they actually mean when they're trying to avoid saying it. The post From the archive: How do I know it’s a ‘no’? A comprehensive guide for foreigners appeared first on Mexico News Daily",
  "key_points": [
    "Mexicans often avoid direct \"no\" to maintain politeness.",
    "Phrases like \"a lo mejor sí\" and \"ahorita\" can mean \"no\".",
    "Understanding these indirect communications requires knowledge of Mexican culture."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}