What Does “Dinnae” Mean in Scottish?

What does “Dinnae” mean in Scottish?

A Scottish verb (contraction) meaning don't. The everyday Scottish way of saying 'don't'. Used constantly in speech across Scotland. 'Dinnae fash yersel' (don't worry yourself) is one of the most well-known Scottish phrases. Part of a pattern of Scottish contractions that add '-nae' to verbs.

Region: Nationwide, understood across all of Scotland

How do you pronounce “Dinnae”?

The key is getting the rhythm right. Scottish pronunciation puts stress in different places tae standard English. Hit play tae hear it in a proper Scottish accent, the way ye'd hear it doon the pub.

How do you use “Dinnae” in a sentence?

Here are real examples of how Dinnae is used in everyday Scottish conversation:

Where does the word “Dinnae” come from?

Contraction of 'do not' in Scots, 'dinnae' evolved from 'dinna' which dates back centuries in Scots speech. Part of a family of Scottish contractions including 'cannae' (cannot), 'willnae' (will not), and 'shouldnae' (should not).

Is “Dinnae” used across all of Scotland?

Nationwide, understood across all of Scotland. Scottish dialect varies significantly between Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen (Doric) and the Highlands. While Dinnae is widely understood, the accent and context will vary from region tae region.

Test Yersel

Quick Question

Whit does “Dinnae” mean?

Cold sea fog rolling in from the coast Don't Be quiet, hush

Dinnae worry, it happens tae the best o' us. Have another keek at the definition above.

Try the full Scottish quiz →