At first glance, "Non peut-être!" sounds like a contradiction. It literally translates from French as “No maybe!”, a phrase that seems to cancel itself out.
But in Belgium, it’s something else entirely: a wonderfully ironic and expressive way of saying “Of course!” or “Definitely!”
Used with a dose of local flair and sometimes a raised eyebrow, Non peut-être! is all about mock surprise or exaggerated emphasis. Imagine someone asks, “Do you want another beer?” Replying “Non peut-être!” is like saying, “Obviously I do!”
The expression is unique to Belgium and rarely, if ever, used this way in France. It's a perfect example of how French in Belgium has its own personality, rhythm, and charm — often playful, a bit cheeky, and rich with regional character.
It's also an emblem of Belgian humour — self-aware, a touch sarcastic, and full of understated confidence.
So the next time someone suggests to grab a bite or a spontaneous road trip to the Ardennes, you can channel your inner Belgian and reply with a grin: Non peut-être!
