do not imagine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do not imagine" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to instruct someone not to visualize or conceive of something in their mind. Example: "When you hear the story, do not imagine the characters as real people; instead, think of them as symbols of larger ideas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

You do not imagine the unknown.

Columbia University

But do not imagine it to be conventionally devout.

The Guardian - Books

Just as we do not imagine our development without social inclusion, we do not imagine it without strong, innovative, and competitive industry".

The New Yorker

Catalans are deeply pro-European and we do not imagine a future outside the European Union.

The New York Times

Do not imagine that engagement will be anything other than a slow and frustrating process.

The New York Times

I do not imagine that the residents of Ramat Shlomo will instantly welcome their new neighbors.

The New York Times

Do not imagine either that I feel guilty about what I did.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Don't imagine otherwise.

The New Yorker

"I don't imagine my ideal society.

The New Yorker

You don't imagine they already know?

The New York Times

I don't imagine leaving.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "do not imagine" to gently correct a potential misunderstanding or to steer someone's thoughts in a more accurate direction. For example, "When discussing historical events, do not imagine them as clear-cut narratives; instead, consider the many perspectives involved."

Common error

Avoid using "do not imagine" when a stronger, more definitive negation is needed. For example, instead of saying "Do not imagine that this task is easy", use "This task is not easy" to convey the seriousness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do not imagine" functions primarily as an imperative, specifically a negative command or instruction. It is used to caution or advise someone against forming a particular mental image, assumption, or expectation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable. Ludwig's examples demonstrate the phrase in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

23%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "do not imagine" is a versatile imperative used to gently steer someone away from a potential misunderstanding or incorrect assumption. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across a range of contexts. While neutral in tone, the level of formality can be adjusted through the surrounding language. As demonstrated by Ludwig, "do not imagine" commonly appears in News & Media, Science and Academia contexts. When aiming for semantic replacements consider options like "don't assume" or "do not presume" for similar effect. Ultimately, this phrase provides a valuable tool for guiding thought and promoting accurate comprehension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

don't assume

Replaces "imagine" with "assume", focusing on avoiding premature conclusions.

do not presume

Uses "presume" instead of "imagine", suggesting a stronger caution against taking something for granted.

do not suppose

Substitutes "imagine" with "suppose", indicating a warning against unfounded beliefs.

refrain from thinking

Emphasizes the act of preventing oneself from thinking in a certain way.

avoid picturing

Focuses specifically on avoiding the mental image or visualization of something.

do not visualize

Directly advises against creating a visual image in one's mind.

do not get the idea

Warns against developing a specific notion or understanding.

disabuse yourself of the notion

A more formal way of telling someone to rid themselves of a false idea.

do not expect

Shifts the focus to avoiding a particular expectation or anticipation.

set aside any preconceived notions

Implies a complete dismissal of prior assumptions or beliefs.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "do not imagine" for different tones?

For a gentler tone, use phrases like "don't assume" or "avoid picturing". If you need a stronger tone, try "do not presume" or "disabuse yourself of the notion".

Is "do not imagine" formal or informal?

"Do not imagine" is generally neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "do not presume" may be preferred in certain situations.

When is it appropriate to use "do not imagine"?

It's appropriate when you want to gently correct a potential misunderstanding or redirect someone's thinking. For example, "When evaluating data, "do not imagine" that correlation implies causation".

What is a common mistake to avoid when using "do not imagine"?

A common mistake is using "do not imagine" when a stronger, more direct statement is needed. Ensure the context calls for a gentle correction rather than a firm declaration.