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    No tengo ni idea

    Grammar & Usage

    fixed expression
    neutral to casual

    How it works

    This expression literally translates to "I don't even have an idea." It uses the verb "tener" (to have) in the first person singular present tense, negated by "no" and reinforced by "ni" (not even), followed by the noun "idea." It's a common and idiomatic way to express complete ignorance or lack of knowledge about something.

    Sample sentences

    ¿Sabes dónde están las llaves? No tengo ni idea.

    Do you know where the keys are? I have no idea.

    Me preguntó sobre el nuevo proyecto, pero no tengo ni idea de qué trata.

    He asked me about the new project, but I have no idea what it's about.

    No tengo ni idea de cómo resolver este problema de matemáticas.

    I haven't a clue how to solve this math problem.

    Quick facts

    usage:It's a very common and natural way to express lack of knowledge in everyday conversation, suitable for most informal and semi-formal contexts.
    reinforcement:The 'ni' acts as a strong intensifier, meaning 'not even' or 'not a single' idea, making the negation very emphatic. It's often accompanied by 'no' for double negation, which is common in Spanish to strengthen the negative.

    Mnemonic

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    Example

    ¿Sabes dónde están las llaves? No tengo ni idea.

    Do you know where the keys are? I have no idea.

    Me preguntó sobre el nuevo proyecto, pero no tengo ni idea de qué trata.

    He asked me about the new project, but I have no idea what it's about.

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