Ivan
'not to' or 'to not' before a verb
I can't find a general rule when it is correct to use 'not to' before a verb, and when 'to not'.
These sentences seem to be ok:
1. These modal forms of 'need' normally refer to immediate necessity. They are
often used to ask for or give permission - usually permission not to do
something. (Michael Swan. Practical English Usage. Third edition. 366.3)
2. 'Need not' or 'do not need to' is used to say that there is no obligation; must not is
used to say that there is an obligation not to do something. (Michael Swan. Practical English Usage. Third edition. 366.3)
The best way to not get your heart broken, is pretending you don't have one. (Charlie Sheen)
Help me please find this rule.
2013年7月14日 21:53
回答 · 10
Ivan
English is flexible. You are looking for a rule when there is not a rule.
Consider: To pay a bill or to not pay a bill.
To look or a rule or to not look for a rule.
To be happy or not to be happy.
To make a wise decision or to not make a wise decision.
.
2013年7月14日
These types of examples can be very difficult to explain in Modern English, because you can have regional variations. "Not to" may be considered more correct and standard, while "to not" may be used colloquially. I would probably use "not to" because it follows the general rule of not separating the "to" from the "verb"(infinitive), but like I mentioned earlier, regional variations can play a significant part.
2013年7月14日
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