How to say “I don't know” like a native speaker
Say this when you do not have the answer. In conversation it can also introduce uncertainty about an opinion or decision.
All phrases · Small talk
Hear “I don't know” in real speech
Clip 1 · Learn English with Bob the Canadian
Let's Learn English! Topic: Damage and Wear! 😎🚙🚪 (Lesson Only) · 20:32
About this video
Bob the Canadian teaches words for damage and wear. He starts with his old van going to a wrecking yard and uses other everyday examples, including office-chair wheels wearing down carpet.
In context
were too strong to use on a computer screen.I don't know why.
They are the, I guess it's distance, right?
Clip 2 · BBC Learning English
How do you take your coffee? ☕🥛🍯 Improve your listening skills with Real Easy English · 2:14
About this video
Neil and Georgie talk about how they like their coffee in this BBC Learning English conversation. They compare daily coffee habits, including how they feel when they miss a cup.
In context
But why would that be so bad?Well, I don't know.
It's just I've never heard of it.
Clip 3 · Derek Sivers
The "good enough" life choice : Derek Sivers at TEDxTaipei 2012 · 8:58
About this video
Derek Sivers talks about choosing a life that feels good enough rather than following a single expected path. He invites audience participation and discusses trying unfamiliar experiences, including moving to another country.
In context
And think of that horrible feeling when somebody says, "Wow! I haven't seen you in years! What did you do last summer?"And you say, "I don't know."
Now imagine how terrible that would feel that the end of your life if you can't clearly remember what you did for 20 years?
When to use “I don't know”
- Being asked which platform a train uses: “I don't know. Let's check the board.”
- Discussing an uncertain plan: “I don't know if I can finish by Friday.”
Common learner mistake
Use “don't” with “know”: “I don't know”, not “I am not know”.
Possible connected-speech patterns in “I don't know”
The T in “don't” can be unreleased before N in “know”. Preserve the negative meaning even when the middle is quick.
Related phrases
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You don't need to speak fast.
A slow line to begin with: listen to how “don’t need to” runs together, then say it at the speaker’s pace.
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