Search from various English teachers...
callmemaybe
Which one is correct? Is it " don't want to do sth" or " want not to do sth"
Hey,
I'm learning the negative form of "to do sth." It is said the negative form of " to do sth" is "not to do sth."
So should I say " I want not to do sth" It seems so weird to say that way. I'm so confused, please help me out. thx.
Oct 28, 2014 11:48 AM
Answers · 1
You are quite right. 'I want not to do something' is a strange thing to say in most situations.
The opposite of 'I want to do this' is - obviously - 'I don't want to do this'.
If you want to express a lack of desire to do something, you put the verb 'want' into the negative, not the verb 'do'.
I think that you are over-applying some grammar which is intended for a different use. 'Not to do' is a negative infinitive. For example:
He agreed to do this.
He agreed not to do this.
October 28, 2014
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!
callmemaybe
Language Skills
Chinese (Mandarin), English
Learning Language
English
Articles You May Also Like

How to Answer “How Was Your Weekend?” Naturally in English
12 likes · 5 Comments

Why Some Jokes Don’t Translate: Understanding Humor in English
4 likes · 1 Comments

How to Talk About Your Strengths and Weaknesses Professionally
2 likes · 1 Comments
More articles
