Hear "No"in a Southern Accent

Us Southerners don’t always say no the way the unhillbillies do. You’ll often hear it as nuh-owe /noʊ/ ~ /nʊoʊ/ - one syllable with a glide that nearly splits into two - or stretched into neh-owe /nɛ.oʊ/ ~ /ne.oʊ/ in slower or more expressive talk. Play the clip to hear both in real Southern speech, then practice with our tips.

#SouthernAccents

Variations

This one's a little trickier, out in the country. /nɛ.oʊ/ ~ /ne.oʊ/

Say It Like a Southerner

Play audio Start with "nu" or "neh," then glide into "owe." Keep it short for "nu-owe" or stretch it smooth for "neh-owe." Practice both until they feel natural.

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Common Questions

How do Southerners usually pronounce "no"?

The short form "nu-owe" is common in fast talk, while "neh-owe" shows up in slower, emphatic, or emotional speech.

Is this everywhere in the South?

Pretty much - though some areas lean heavier on the stretched "neh-owe" than others.

How can I practice?

Start with a plain "no," then add a smooth glide into "owe." Clip it for quick speech, stretch it for emphasis.

Regional Note

Southern accents vary widely from state to state and even holler to holler. The examples here reflect speech patterns common to rural Kentucky, Arkansas, Tennessee, western North Carolina, north Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas, and aren't meant to represent lowland or coastal "Deep South" varieties. Nor are the examples perfect - accents can be hyper-regional. They're provided for curious learners, actors and content creators, and ESL speakers who want a friendly introduction to authentic pronunciation. Learn more on the Southern Accent hub page.

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