I do not like coffee.
- Language
- English
- Level
- A2
- Unit
- Word order and sentence structure
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
Basic negative sentences in English are sentences that say something is not true. You use special words to make a sentence negative.
When to use it
Use negative sentences to say that something does not happen, is not true, or is not happening.
Key forms
- Subject + do/does + not + base verb (for most verbs)
- Subject + am/is/are + not (for 'be')
Examples
She does not play tennis.
We are not tired.
He is not at home.
Tips
- Use 'do not' (don't) or 'does not' (doesn't) for most verbs.
- Use 'am not', 'is not', or 'are not' with the verb 'be'.
- Do not add 's' to the main verb after 'does not'.
Exceptions and edge cases
- With the verb 'be', do not use 'do/does'. Say 'I am not', 'he is not', 'they are not'.
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