Never mind
Use this to mean "don't worry." It's a kind and reassuring way to say "never mind."
Literally "forget it." Use this when you want to drop a subject completely. It can sometimes sound a little abrupt.
Means "it's nothing." Perfect for downplaying something, especially after someone apologizes for a small inconvenience.
Means "leave it like that" or "let it be." Use this to stop an action or discussion from going further.
—Can you look for my phone? —I can't find it. —Oh, never mind, it's in my pocket. Thanks!
—Sorry for being a little late. —Don't worry (Never mind), the movie hasn't started yet.
—I don't understand the story you're telling me. —Mmm, forget it (never mind), it's not important.
—Oops, I spilled a little water! —It's nothing (never mind), it's just water.
'No importa' is the most standard and universally understood translation. 'No te preocupes' and 'olvídalo' are also extremely common everywhere.
In Spain, 'no pasa nada' (literally 'nothing happens') is extremely common, often used more frequently than 'no importa' to mean 'it's okay' or 'never mind'.
'No hay problema' is a very frequent alternative. You might also hear the very informal 'no hay bronca,' but 'no hay problema' is more standard.
It's common to hear 'no hay drama' as a relaxed, informal way to say 'no problem' or 'never mind'.
Using 'nunca mente'. — This is a literal, word-for-word translation of 'never' (nunca) and 'mind' (mente). It is grammatically incorrect and makes no sense in Spanish. Spanish phrases often don't translate literally.
Using 'no mente'. — This is another direct translation attempt. 'Mente' is a noun ('the mind'), not a verb. The correct expressions, like 'no importa' ('it doesn't matter'), convey the idea without translating the individual words.
Using 'olvídalo' in a sensitive situation. — 'Olvídalo' ('forget it') can sound dismissive or annoyed. If you want to be reassuring, 'no te preocupes' ('don't worry') is a much better and kinder choice.
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