do not

USAGE SUMMARY

"do not" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
When used as an imperative, it can be used to give instructions or commands, as in the following example: "Do not forget to bring an umbrella in case it rains."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

do not work.

Theoretical Computer Science

We do not agree.

Scandinavian Journal of Management

Do not, do not, do not.

The Guardian - Opinion

do not delocalize upon annealing.

Acta Materialia

Therefore: do not judge.

The New Yorker

Do not watch Stonewall".

Independent

Do not come.

The New Yorker

7 do not apply.

Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences

Do not need BIM.

Visualization in Engineering

do not intubate.

Annals of Intensive Care

Stones do not move.

Complex Adaptive Systems Modeling

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "do not" for formal instructions or warnings where clarity is essential. For less formal contexts, consider using "don't".

Common error

While grammatically correct, consistently using "do not" instead of "don't" in casual conversation can sound stilted or overly formal. Opt for "don't" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do not" primarily functions as a negating auxiliary verb phrase. It is used to form negative imperatives, expressing commands or prohibitions. Ludwig AI shows this is a standard grammatical construction for conveying what should not be done.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

Wiki

30%

News & Media

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "do not" is a common and grammatically sound construction used primarily to express prohibitions, commands, or warnings. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a negating auxiliary verb phrase. Its usage is widespread across various contexts, including science, news, and general informational content like wikis. While it is always grammatically correct, the full form of "do not" carries a slightly more formal tone compared to its contracted form, "don't". When writing, consider your audience and context to determine whether "do not" or "don't" is most appropriate. Remember, clarity is key when instructing or cautioning against certain actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

don't

This is a contraction of "do not", making it more informal.

do not ever

Adds emphasis to the prohibition, highlighting the importance of not doing something.

must not

Indicates a stronger sense of prohibition or obligation not to do something.

refrain from

A more formal and polite way to say "do not".

avoid

Suggests staying away from something rather than a direct prohibition.

you shouldn't

A more gentle and suggestive form of "do not".

be sure not to

Suggests caution and care in avoiding something.

it is advisable not to

A formal recommendation against doing something.

not allowed

Similar to 'prohibited' and indicates that something is not permitted.

prohibited

Expresses something that is forbidden and often implies that doing it is illegal.

FAQs

How to use "do not" in a sentence?

"Do not" is used to give a command or instruction in a negative way. For example, "Do not open the door" or "Do not touch that."

When should I use "do not" versus "don't"?

"Do not" is more formal and is often used in writing or when giving serious instructions. "Don't" is a contraction of "do not" and is more common in spoken language and informal writing.

What are some formal alternatives to "do not"?

Formal alternatives include phrases like "refrain from" or "must not" when giving instructions or expressing prohibitions.

Is it ever incorrect to use "do not"?

While grammatically correct, overusing "do not" in informal settings can sound unnatural. In casual conversations, using "don't" is generally preferred.