In 15 Seconds
- A versatile way to say 'Exactly' or 'That's right.'
- Uses a double negative to create a strong positive confirmation.
- Perfect for confirming facts, orders, or correct guesses.
Meaning
This phrase is the ultimate way to say 'Exactly!' or 'You're spot on.' It confirms that what someone just said is 100% correct.
Key Examples
3 of 6Confirming a coffee order
没错，我要大杯的。
That's right, I want a large one.
A colleague identifies a problem
没错，这就是我们要找的原因。
Exactly, this is the reason we were looking for.
Texting a friend who guessed your location
没错！你怎么知道的？
That's right! How did you know?
Cultural Background
The phrase reflects the Chinese linguistic habit of using negation to express a strong positive. By saying something is 'not wrong,' you are providing a firm, objective validation that is deeply rooted in everyday logic and social harmony.
The Nod Factor
In China, pairing `没错` with a single, firm downward nod makes you sound 10x more fluent and confident.
Don't Over-correct
If someone makes a tiny grammar mistake but the fact is right, just say `没错`. Don't use it to mean 'your Chinese is perfect'!
In 15 Seconds
- A versatile way to say 'Exactly' or 'That's right.'
- Uses a double negative to create a strong positive confirmation.
- Perfect for confirming facts, orders, or correct guesses.
What It Means
没错 is your go-to tool for agreement. It literally translates to 'not wrong.' In Chinese logic, if something isn't wrong, it’s perfectly right. It carries a tone of certainty. It’s like nodding your head while saying 'Yup, that’s the one.' Use it when someone identifies a fact. Use it when they guess your thoughts. It’s punchy and satisfying to say.
How To Use It
You usually use it as a standalone response. It’s short, so it fits anywhere. You can also put it at the start of a sentence. For example, 没错，就是他 means 'Exactly, it is him.' It works perfectly in text messages too. Just two characters and you’ve confirmed everything. It’s the verbal equivalent of a giant green checkmark.
When To Use It
Use it when a waiter repeats your order. Use it when a friend guesses your favorite movie. It’s great in meetings when a colleague hits the nail on the head. If someone asks, 'Is this the way to the station?' you say 没错. It shows you are paying attention. It builds a quick bridge of agreement between you and the speaker.
When NOT To Use It
Don’t use it for subjective opinions you merely 'like.' If someone says 'This cake is delicious,' saying 没错 sounds a bit like you’re grading their taste. Use 对 or 我也觉得 instead. Also, avoid it in extremely formal ceremonies. It’s a bit too snappy for a wedding speech. Don't use it if you are unsure. It’s a phrase for 100% certainty, not 'maybe.'
Cultural Background
Chinese communication often uses 'double negatives' for emphasis. Saying 'not wrong' instead of 'right' actually sounds more definitive. It’s a classic linguistic quirk. It reflects a culture that values accuracy and verification. It’s been a staple of Mandarin for centuries. Today, it’s one of the most common phrases in pop culture and daily life.
Common Variations
You can add 的 at the end (没错的) to sound softer. To be more emphatic, say 一点没错. That means 'not wrong at all.' If you want to sound more formal, you might use 确实. But for daily life, 没错 is the undisputed king of confirmation. It’s simple, effective, and makes you sound like a local.
Usage Notes
It is a neutral-to-informal expression. It is safer than slang but more conversational than formal textbook speech. Use it to confirm facts rather than just to be polite.
The Nod Factor
In China, pairing `没错` with a single, firm downward nod makes you sound 10x more fluent and confident.
Don't Over-correct
If someone makes a tiny grammar mistake but the fact is right, just say `没错`. Don't use it to mean 'your Chinese is perfect'!
The Power of 'No'
Many Chinese affirmations start with 'No' (like `不错` - not bad). It's a humble way to be positive!
Examples
6没错，我要大杯的。
That's right, I want a large one.
Used to confirm a specific detail in a service setting.
没错，这就是我们要找的原因。
Exactly, this is the reason we were looking for.
Validates a professional observation with confidence.
没错！你怎么知道的？
That's right! How did you know?
Expresses surprise and confirmation in a friendly way.
没错，我确实买了十个西瓜。
That's right, I really did buy ten watermelons.
Admits to a slightly ridiculous but true fact.
没错，生活就是这样。
You're right, that's just how life is.
Used to agree with a philosophical or emotional sentiment.
没错，我就是王先生。
That is correct, I am Mr. Wang.
A clear, polite confirmation of identity.
Test Yourself
Choose the best response to: 'Is this your phone?'
这是你的手机吗？ ___, 谢谢！
`没错` confirms the fact that it is indeed your phone.
Which variation makes the confirmation stronger?
他说得___。
`一点没错` means 'not wrong at all' or 'perfectly correct.'
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Scale of 'That's Right'
Used with close friends.
对啊 (Duì a)
Perfect for most daily situations.
没错 (Méicuò)
Used in official or serious contexts.
确实如此 (Quèshí rúcǐ)
When to say 没错
Ordering Food
Confirming your drink order.
At Work
Agreeing with a data point.
With Friends
Confirming plans for tonight.
Giving Directions
Confirming the correct turn.
Practice Bank
2 exercises这是你的手机吗？ ___, 谢谢！
`没错` confirms the fact that it is indeed your phone.
他说得___。
`一点没错` means 'not wrong at all' or 'perfectly correct.'
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThey are similar, but 没错 is stronger. While 对 means 'correct,' 没错 is like saying 'exactly' or 'spot on.'
Yes, it is perfectly neutral. It shows you are following the conversation and agree with the facts presented.
Not at all. However, if you say it too loudly or abruptly, it might sound like you're impatient, so keep your tone steady.
No, that wouldn't make sense. Use 很好 or 不错 (not bad) for that instead.
没错 means 'that is correct,' while 不错 usually means 'not bad' or 'quite good.'
You can say 一点没错 (yīdiǎn méicuò) to add that extra emphasis of 'absolutely.'
It's great for texting! It's short, clear, and very common in WeChat conversations.
Better not. 没错 implies certainty. If you're unsure, try 应该是吧 (should be).
It is used everywhere! It is a standard Mandarin expression recognized across all regions.
Yes, if you feel the opinion is a 'correct' assessment of a situation, like 没错，这太贵了 (Exactly, this is too expensive).
Related Phrases
对的
Correct / Right
正是
Precisely / Exactly (more formal)
确实
Indeed / Truly
一点没错
Absolutely right / Not a bit wrong
