Negative commands in English teach how to tell someone not to do something using “do not” or “don’t” plus the base form of the verb.
Negative commands are used to tell someone not to do something. In English, we form negative commands by using “do not” or the contraction “don’t” followed by the base form of the verb. These commands can be formal or informal, depending on whether you use “do not” or “don’t.” Unlike affirmative commands, negative commands always include “do not” or “don’t.”
Conjugations
Here’s how negative commands are structured in English. Note that the verb always stays in its base form:
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Singular/Plural | Do not + verb | Do not eat the cake. |
| Contraction | Don’t + verb | Don’t eat the cake. |
The “you” subject is implied and not stated.
Usage
Negative commands are used in everyday life to prevent actions, give warnings, or set rules. Here are some common situations where you’ll see negative commands:
- Giving warnings: Don’t touch the stove.
- Setting rules: Do not enter the room.
- Giving advice: Don’t drive too fast.
Can negative commands be both formal and informal?
Yes, using 'do not' is more formal and 'don’t' is more informal
‘Do not’ is the more formal form, while ‘don’t’ is more casual; both are correct for negative commands.
Examples
Here are some examples of negative commands in different contexts:
| Example | Translation |
|---|---|
| Don’t be late. | No llegues tarde. |
| Do not open the window. | No abras la ventana. |
| Don’t forget your keys. | No olvides tus llaves. |
| Do not speak loudly. | No hables en voz alta. |
| Don’t write on the wall. | No escribas en la pared. |
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes learners make with negative commands:
- Incorrect: Don’t to go.
Correct: Don’t go.
- Incorrect: Do not goes.
Correct: Do not go.
- Incorrect: Don’t eating.
Correct: Don’t eat.
Remember, after “do not” or “don’t,” always use the base form of the verb.
Summary
- Negative commands tell someone not to do something.
- Use “do not” or “don’t” + base verb.
- The subject “you” is implied.
- Common in warnings, rules, and advice.
What is the main rule for forming negative commands in English?
Use “do not” or “don’t” + base verb
The key rule is to use ‘do not’ or the contraction ‘don’t’ followed by the base form of the verb.
Last updated: Thu Jun 12, 2025
