Don't is a short way to say 'do not'.
We use don't when we want to say that we do not do something. For example, 'I don't like apples' means 'I do not like apples'.
You can also use don't to tell someone not to do something. For example, 'Don't touch that!'
It helps us make sentences negative quickly and easily.
The word don't is a short way to say do not. We use don't when we want to say that we do not do something. For example, you can say, "I don't like apples" instead of "I do not like apples." It's very common to use don't in everyday English conversations. You can also use it to tell someone not to do something, like "Don't touch that!"
The word “don't” is a very common contraction in English, combining “do” and “not.”
It's primarily used to form negative statements in the present simple tense for most verbs, like in the sentence, “I don't like coffee.”
Additionally, “don't” is essential for creating negative commands or prohibitions, such as, “Don't touch that!”
Understanding “don't” is crucial because it's a fundamental part of expressing negation and giving negative instructions in everyday English conversation.
The term 'don't' serves as a fundamental contraction, merging 'do' and 'not' to express negation. Primarily, it functions as an auxiliary verb, essential for constructing negative statements in the present simple tense for most verbs, excluding 'to be' and modal verbs. For instance, 'I don't like coffee' exemplifies its use in negating an action. Furthermore, 'don't' is integral to forming negative imperatives, instructing someone not to perform an action, as in 'Don't touch that.' Understanding 'don't' is crucial for mastering basic English sentence structure and conveying prohibition or absence of action effectively.
§ Understanding 'Don't'
- Definition
- The word 'don't' is a contraction of the words 'do not.' It is used as an auxiliary verb to negate the present tense of verbs or to form negative imperatives. It is a very common word in spoken and written English.
When we use 'don't,' we are essentially saying 'do not.' It's a convenient and natural way to express a negative action or state in the present tense. For example, instead of saying 'I do not like apples,' you would typically say 'I don't like apples.'
§ Using 'Don't' with Different Pronouns
'Don't' is used with the pronouns I, you, we, and they, as well as with plural nouns. It indicates that the subject does not perform the action of the main verb.
- With 'I': Used to express what you personally do not do or do not feel.
I don't understand the question.
- With 'You': Used when addressing one or more people, indicating what they do not do.
You don't have to leave yet.
- With 'We': Used to express what a group including yourself does not do.
We don't usually eat dinner this late.
- With 'They': Used to express what a group of people or things does not do.
They don't live here anymore.
It's important to note that for third-person singular pronouns (he, she, it) and singular nouns, we use 'doesn't' (does not), not 'don't'.
- Common Mistake
- Beginners often confuse 'don't' and 'doesn't'. Remember: 'don't' for I/you/we/they/plural, and 'doesn't' for he/she/it/singular.
§ 'Don't' in Negative Imperatives
'Don't' is also crucial for forming negative imperatives. An imperative is a command or instruction. A negative imperative tells someone *not* to do something. To form a negative imperative, you simply put 'Don't' before the base form of the verb.
Don't touch that wet paint!
Don't be late for the meeting.
In these examples, 'don't' makes the instruction a prohibition. It's a direct way to tell someone to refrain from an action.
§ 'Don't' with Prepositions
While 'don't' itself isn't a preposition, it often appears in sentences that also contain prepositions. The prepositions function normally in these sentences, relating a noun or pronoun to another part of the sentence.
I don't want to go with him.
They don't care about the rules.
In these examples, 'with' and 'about' are prepositions that help complete the meaning of the sentence, even though 'don't' is handling the negation. The usage of the preposition remains the same as it would in a positive sentence.
- Key Takeaway
- 'Don't' is a fundamental part of expressing negation in English. Mastering its use with different subjects and in imperatives will greatly improve your communication skills.
Practicing with 'don't' in various sentence structures will help solidify your understanding and make it a natural part of your English vocabulary. Try forming your own negative sentences and imperatives using 'don't' to reinforce what you've learned.
Grammaire à connaître
Use 'don't' with the base form of the verb for most negative statements in the simple present tense (e.g., I don't like, You don't know, They don't have).
I don't like coffee.
Use 'don't' with the pronoun 'I', 'you', 'we', and 'they' to form negative sentences.
We don't understand the question.
Use 'don't' to form negative commands or prohibitions (imperatives).
Don't touch that!
Do not use 'don't' with 'he,' 'she,' or 'it.' Instead, use 'doesn't.'
She doesn't speak French.
Do not use 'don't' with other negative words like 'never' or 'nothing,' as this creates a double negative.
Correct: I never eat meat. Incorrect: I don't never eat meat.
Exemples par niveau
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Expressing a prohibition or giving an instruction not to do something.
- Don't touch that!
- Don't worry.
- Don't be late.
Stating that you or someone else does not do something regularly or generally.
- I don't like coffee.
- They don't live here anymore.
- He doesn't eat meat.
Asking someone not to do something politely.
- Please don't forget.
- Don't hesitate to ask.
- Don't mind me.
Describing something that is not true or does not exist.
- That doesn't make sense.
- It doesn't matter.
- There doesn't seem to be a problem.
Expressing a lack of understanding or knowledge.
- I don't understand.
- I don't know.
- I don't remember.
Amorces de conversation
"What is something you don't like to do?"
"What is something you don't understand about the world?"
"Is there anything you don't want to talk about today?"
"What is one thing you don't have enough time for?"
"What is something you don't usually do on weekends?"
Sujets d'écriture
Write about a time you had to tell someone 'don't' do something. What was the situation and how did they react?
What are some things you 'don't' want to forget in your life? Why are they important to you?
Describe a situation where you felt like you 'don't' belong. How did you feel and what did you do?
What are three things you 'don't' typically worry about? Why don't they cause you stress?
Reflect on a goal you 'don't' want to give up on. What challenges have you faced and how do you plan to overcome them?
Teste-toi 72 questions
Listen to the negative statement.
Listen to the negative statement about possession.
Listen to the negative command.
Read this aloud:
I don't know.
Focus: don't
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
We don't eat meat.
Focus: don't
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
Don't forget your keys.
Focus: Don't
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a sentence using 'don't' to say you don't like something.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I don't like coffee.
Complete the sentence: My cat ____ play with dogs.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
My cat don't play with dogs.
Write a short command telling someone not to do something, using 'Don't'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Don't touch that!
What doesn't Tom like?
Read this passage:
My name is Tom. I like apples. I don't like bananas. My sister likes bananas.
What doesn't Tom like?
The passage says, 'I don't like bananas,' referring to Tom.
The passage says, 'I don't like bananas,' referring to Tom.
What do they not have?
Read this passage:
We have a big house. We don't have a car. We walk to the store.
What do they not have?
The passage states, 'We don't have a car.'
The passage states, 'We don't have a car.'
When doesn't he go to school?
Read this passage:
He is a student. He doesn't go to school on Saturday. He watches TV.
When doesn't he go to school?
The passage says, 'He doesn't go to school on Saturday.'
The passage says, 'He doesn't go to school on Saturday.'
This sentence uses 'don't' to express a negative preference. The correct order is Subject (I), auxiliary verb (don't), main verb (like), and object (milk).
This sentence uses 'don't' to show possession in the negative. The correct order is Subject (They), auxiliary verb (don't), main verb (have), and object (a car).
This is a negative imperative, telling someone not to do something. The correct order is 'Please', 'don't', the base form of the verb (open), and the object (the door).
Choose the correct sentence: My sister _____ like chocolate.
For third person singular (he, she, it), we use 'doesn't' (does not).
Which sentence uses 'don't' correctly?
'Don't' is used with I, you, we, and they. For he, she, and it, we use 'doesn't'.
Fill in the blank: Please _____ make noise, the baby is sleeping.
'Don't' is used to form negative imperatives, telling someone not to do something.
The sentence 'I don't understand the question' is grammatically correct.
'Don't' is correctly used with the pronoun 'I'.
You can use 'don't' for a singular noun like 'The cat don't eat fish'.
For a singular noun like 'the cat' (it), you should use 'doesn't' (does not).
'Don't' can be used to tell someone not to do something, like 'Don't touch that!'.
'Don't' is commonly used to form negative imperatives, giving a command not to do something.
Write two sentences using 'don't' to express something you don't like to do.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I don't like to wake up early on weekends. I also don't like to eat spicy food.
Imagine you are giving advice to a friend. Write two sentences using 'don't' to tell them what not to do.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Don't forget your umbrella today. Don't be late for the meeting.
Complete the following sentence: 'I don't usually...' then add two more sentences describing things you don't usually do.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I don't usually watch TV in the morning. I don't usually drink coffee after lunch. I don't usually go to bed before 10 PM.
What does Maria not have time for?
Read this passage:
Maria is talking to her friend, Tom. She says, 'I don't have time to go to the park today. I also don't want to cook dinner. Let's order pizza!' Tom replies, 'That's a great idea! I don't feel like cooking either.'
What does Maria not have time for?
The passage states, 'I don't have time to go to the park today.'
The passage states, 'I don't have time to go to the park today.'
What does the cat not like to do?
Read this passage:
My cat is very playful, but he has some rules. He doesn't like to be picked up too much, and he doesn't eat wet food. He always prefers dry food and a quiet place to sleep.
What does the cat not like to do?
The passage says, 'He doesn't like to be picked up too much.'
The passage says, 'He doesn't like to be picked up too much.'
According to the passage, what don't you need to do for health?
Read this passage:
It's important to stay healthy. You don't need to eat a lot of sweets, and you don't have to exercise for hours every day. Just try to eat balanced meals and get some regular movement.
According to the passage, what don't you need to do for health?
The passage advises, 'You don't need to eat a lot of sweets.'
The passage advises, 'You don't need to eat a lot of sweets.'
This sentence expresses a negative preference. 'I' is the subject, 'don't like' is the negative verb phrase, and 'coffee' is the object.
This sentence negates an action. 'She' is the subject, 'doesn't speak' is the negative verb phrase, and 'French' is the object.
This is a negative imperative, giving a command not to do something. 'Don't forget' is the negative imperative verb phrase, and 'your keys' is the object.
Choose the correct sentence: My sister ___ like broccoli.
For third-person singular subjects (like 'my sister'), we use 'doesn't' (does not).
Which sentence correctly uses 'don't' as a negative imperative?
'Don't worry' is a command or instruction not to do something, which is a negative imperative. The other options use 'don't' incorrectly for third-person singular subjects or as a general negation.
Complete the sentence: If you ___ agree, please raise your hand.
For the second-person subject 'you', we use 'don't' (do not).
The sentence 'She don't want to go to the party' is grammatically correct.
The correct form for a third-person singular subject like 'she' is 'doesn't' (does not), not 'don't'. So, it should be 'She doesn't want to go to the party.'
You can use 'don't' to form a negative imperative, such as 'Don't touch that wet paint!'
'Don't' is commonly used to create negative commands or instructions, which are known as negative imperatives.
The word 'don't' can be used with any subject (I, you, he, she, it, we, they) without changing its form.
'Don't' is used with 'I', 'you', 'we', and 'they'. For 'he', 'she', and 'it' (third-person singular), we use 'doesn't'.
The CEO decided that the company ___ expand into new markets this year due to financial uncertainties.
The subject 'the company' is singular, so the correct negation for the present tense is 'doesn't.'
Even though they trained extensively, they ___ feel confident about winning the championship.
The subject 'they' is plural, so the correct negation for the present tense is 'don't.'
You ___ have to agree with everything I say, but please listen respectfully.
The subject 'you' takes 'don't' in present tense negation.
If you ___ understand the instructions, please ask for clarification.
The subject 'you' takes 'don't' in present tense negation.
She ___ usually complain about her workload, so something must be bothering her.
The subject 'she' is singular, so the correct negation for the present tense is 'doesn't.'
We ___ expect any major delays with the project, but we're prepared for contingencies.
The subject 'we' is plural, so the correct negation for the present tense is 'don't.'
This sentence structure is a common way to express a negative action in the present tense with an adverb of frequency.
This is a negative imperative, instructing someone not to perform an action. 'Don't' comes at the beginning of the command.
This is a conditional sentence, where 'don't' negates the verb 'understand' in the 'if' clause.
The board members, despite overwhelming evidence, ___ to acknowledge the company's precarious financial position.
At C1 level, 'do not' is often preferred over the contraction 'don't' in formal written English, especially when expressing a strong or definite negation in a professional context. The subject 'board members' is plural, requiring 'do not seem.'
Despite the compelling arguments presented, the committee ___ prepared to deviate from the established protocol.
In formal contexts, 'does not' is more appropriate than 'doesn't.' The subject 'the committee' is singular, requiring 'does not appear.'
Such drastic measures, the CEO emphasized, ___ typically align with our corporate philosophy.
For C1 level, 'do not' is generally used in formal statements to emphasize a firm and clear negation, particularly when discussing policies or principles. The subject 'measures' is plural.
The intricacies of quantum physics ___ easily lend themselves to simplistic explanations.
In academic or formal discourse, 'do not' is favored for expressing general truths or characteristics that are not typical, reflecting a higher level of formality. The subject 'intricacies' is plural.
While the benefits are clear, we ___ overlook the potential repercussions of such an extensive overhaul.
At C1, 'must not' is a stronger and more formal way to express prohibition or strong advice not to do something, conveying a sense of obligation or critical importance. While 'shouldn't' is also a contraction, 'must not' carries more weight in a formal context.
Many economists ___ subscribe to the notion that unfettered markets always lead to equitable outcomes.
In a formal or academic discussion about beliefs or theories, 'do not' is the more appropriate and formal way to express a general disagreement or lack of adherence. The subject 'economists' is plural.
Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) discussing a situation where you encountered a significant obstacle and how you overcame it, focusing on actions you 'didn't' take that ultimately led to success.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
When faced with a complex coding bug, I initially thought about giving up, but I didn't succumb to frustration. I didn't directly attempt to fix the symptom; instead, I meticulously reviewed the entire system architecture. This methodical approach, which I didn't initially consider, allowed me to pinpoint the root cause and implement a lasting solution, proving that sometimes the best path isn't the most obvious one.
Imagine you are writing a persuasive essay arguing against a popular belief. Formulate a thesis statement and two supporting sentences, ensuring you use 'don't' to express a strong negation or counter-argument.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Thesis: The prevailing notion that social media inherently isolates individuals doesn't fully account for its capacity to foster genuine community. Supporting Sentence 1: Many don't realize the extent to which online platforms facilitate connections for those in niche communities or remote areas. Supporting Sentence 2: Furthermore, we don't often acknowledge the vital role it plays in social activism and global awareness.
Describe a future technological advancement that you believe will revolutionize daily life. In your description, use 'don't' at least twice to highlight aspects that will no longer be necessary or common due to this advancement.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I envision a future where personalized AI assistants seamlessly manage our schedules and tasks. We won't need to manually set alarms or remember appointments; the AI will anticipate our needs. Consequently, people won't waste time on mundane administrative duties, freeing up significant mental bandwidth for creative and meaningful pursuits.
According to the passage, what is a key distinction between determinists and libertarians regarding free will?
Read this passage:
In the realm of modern philosophy, the concept of free will remains a contentious issue. Determinists argue that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will. Conversely, libertarians posit that individuals possess genuine autonomy and don't merely act as puppets of predetermined forces. This debate doesn't simply reside in academic circles; its implications profoundly impact ethical frameworks and legal systems, questioning whether individuals truly bear responsibility for their choices if their actions aren't freely willed.
According to the passage, what is a key distinction between determinists and libertarians regarding free will?
The passage explicitly states, 'libertarians posit that individuals possess genuine autonomy and don't merely act as puppets of predetermined forces,' and 'Determinists argue that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will,' implying that determinists believe individuals are influenced by external forces.
The passage explicitly states, 'libertarians posit that individuals possess genuine autonomy and don't merely act as puppets of predetermined forces,' and 'Determinists argue that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will,' implying that determinists believe individuals are influenced by external forces.
What is one area where experts lack full agreement concerning AI, according to the text?
Read this passage:
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence presents both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges. While AI promises to revolutionize industries and improve quality of life, concerns about job displacement and algorithmic bias are growing. Experts don't fully agree on the best regulatory frameworks to ensure AI develops ethically and inclusively. Furthermore, the ethical implications of autonomous decision-making systems don't have straightforward answers, prompting ongoing debates among technologists, ethicists, and policymakers.
What is one area where experts lack full agreement concerning AI, according to the text?
The passage states, 'Experts don't fully agree on the best regulatory frameworks to ensure AI develops ethically and inclusively,' directly answering the question.
The passage states, 'Experts don't fully agree on the best regulatory frameworks to ensure AI develops ethically and inclusively,' directly answering the question.
What is a key point the passage makes about screen time and academic performance?
Read this passage:
Despite the conventional wisdom, prolonged screen time doesn't necessarily lead to poorer academic performance for all students. Recent studies suggest that the quality of screen engagement—whether it's for educational purposes, creative expression, or passive consumption—plays a more significant role than the sheer duration. Moreover, many educational institutions don't adequately teach digital literacy, which is crucial for students to harness technology effectively rather than merely be consumed by it. Therefore, a nuanced understanding, rather than a blanket condemnation, is imperative.
What is a key point the passage makes about screen time and academic performance?
The passage states, 'prolonged screen time doesn't necessarily lead to poorer academic performance for all students. Recent studies suggest that the quality of screen engagement... plays a more significant role than the sheer duration,' directly supporting this option.
The passage states, 'prolonged screen time doesn't necessarily lead to poorer academic performance for all students. Recent studies suggest that the quality of screen engagement... plays a more significant role than the sheer duration,' directly supporting this option.
The correct order forms a grammatically sound sentence about someone not being deterred by a review.
This sentence describes how the audience understood her sarcastic remark.
The sentence indicates an inability to grasp the nuanced humor.
/ 72 correct
Perfect score!
Contenu associé
Ce mot dans d'autres langues
Plus de mots sur Language
mean
A1To have a specific sense or significance, especially when explaining a word or sign. It can also describe a person's intention or the importance of something to someone.
participle
B2Un participe est une forme de verbe utilisée comme adjectif ou nom, comme 'courant'.
prose
B2La prose est le langage écrit ou parlé courant, sans la structure rythmique de la poésie.
aphoristic
B2Ce sont des phrases courtes et concises qui expriment une vérité générale.
forebrevary
C1Décrit quelque chose de concis au début, comme une courte introduction à quelque chose de plus grand.
word
A1Un mot est une unité de langue unique qui a une signification spécifique et peut être prononcée ou écrite. C'est le bloc de construction de base utilisé pour créer des phrases et des phrases dans la communication.
feature
C1A distinctive attribute or aspect of something that makes it recognizable or important. In academic and technical contexts, it refers to a specific characteristic used for analysis, classification, or identification.
code
B2A system of words, letters, figures, or other symbols used to represent others, especially for the purposes of secrecy or computer programming. It also refers to a set of rules or principles that a group of people agree to follow.
metaphor
B2La métaphore signifie décrire une chose en disant que c'est une autre chose différente. Cela aide les gens à comprendre un sentiment ou une idée en utilisant une image simple dans leur esprit.
rhetoric
A1La rhétorique est la manière dont quelqu'un utilise le langage pour persuader ou influencer d'autres personnes. Elle peut également désigner un discours ou un écrit qui semble important mais qui n'est peut-être pas sincère ou honnête.
