1. Negation: This is the most common meaning. It simply means "not." For example:
* "Do you want a cookie?" "No, thank you."
* "Is the sky blue?" "No, it's green."
2. Refusal: "No" can also express a refusal to do something.
* "Can I borrow your car?" "No."
3. Disagreement: "No" can indicate disagreement with a statement or opinion.
* "You think that's a good idea?" "No, I don't."
4. Opposition: "No" can be used to express opposition to something.
* "No to the war!"
5. Absence: "No" can also indicate the absence of something.
* "There's no milk left."
The meaning of "no" is usually clear from the context in which it is used.
It's important to note that "no" is a very direct word and can sometimes be perceived as rude or aggressive, especially when used in a confrontational situation. It's generally better to use more polite expressions like "I don't think so," or "I'd prefer not to."