Home/Phrases/“I don’t know”
A1how to say

How to say “I don’t know” in Spanish

Two very common answers, one neutral and one casual.

Quick answer

No sé

the everyday version

Ni idea

the alternative — see below for when

Which one to use

No sé is the neutral default and fits every situation, formal or not. The accent matters: sé is the verb, se is a different word entirely.

Ni idea is informal and means you really have no clue. Among friends it is extremely common, but keep no sé for a boss or an official.

All the versions

No sé.I don’t know — neutral, always safe.
No lo sé.I don’t know it — with a specific thing in mind.
Ni idea.No idea — casual.
No tengo ni idea.I have no idea at all — stronger, still casual.
No estoy seguro.I’m not sure — softer, use <b>segura</b> if you are female.

Where you are matters

Both are universal, and in Mexico <b>quién sabe</b> and the shortened <b>sepa</b> are very common alternatives.

Check yourself

Which answer is the safest in a formal situation?

Still building your foundation?

The Spanish Beginner Guide has all of this in one PDF — grammar, 1,000 words, exercises and printable cheat sheets.

Instant download · no subscription

Get the guide — $19