Negative communication triggers (no decir que)

Denying Statements of Communication

When you declare a fact using verbs of communication like decir (to say), afirmar (to state), or mencionar (to mention), the verb that follows takes the normal indicative mood. You are presenting the information as reality.

However, as a PR spokesperson defending a celebrity client, you will spend a lot of time denying rumors. When you make a communication verb negative by adding no, you actively refuse to declare the statement as a fact. Because you are rejecting the reality of the information, the second verb must shift to the subjunctive mood.

Here are three negative communication triggers you will use to manage the press:

• no decir que (not to say that)
• no afirmar que (not to state that)
• no mencionar que (not to mention that)

Refuting Scandals

Whether dealing with an absurd rumor or outright slander, these negative triggers keep your clients out of trouble without confirming any details. Notice how using the subjunctive highlights the questionable, unconfirmed, or untrue nature of the tabloid claims.

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