Negation For beginners

In this lesson, we learn about sentence negation, which is the process of making sentences negative using words like "not". Simple explanations and easy examples to understand their use.

Negation in English Grammar

What Is Negation?

Negation involves making a sentence negative to show that something is not true or does not happen.

Two Negative Words

Two words are commonly used in English to make a sentence negative:

No

'No' is used as a negative answer to a yes/no question.

A:

Is there any cake left for me?

B:

No! Sorry!

It can also come before a noun to make a negative sentence and to show negation.

Example

We have no time to celebrate.

He has no friends.

Not

'Not' is the most common word used with verbs to show negation. For example:

Example

I am not a student.

The short form of 'not' is 'n't' and it often comes after auxiliary verbs or modal verbs to make the sentence negative.

Example

She isn't working on Friday.

I can't sing.

Quiz:


1.

Which sentence correctly uses "no" for negation?

A

I am no hungry.

B

There are no books on the table.

C

She is no coming tomorrow.

D

He no likes coffee.

2.

What is the negative of this sentence: "She can understand the question."

A

She can no understand the question.

B

She no can understand the question.

C

She cannot understand the question.

D

She not can understand the question.

3.
she
she
.
travel
has
no
not
because
does
money
4.

Fill in the blanks with the correct word to make the sentences negative.

He does

wants to go to the party.

There is

time to finish the project.

She is

interested in sports.

We do

have enough money to buy the tickets.

She has

interest in joining the team.

I did

like that movie.

5.

Which sentence correctly uses "not" to show negation?

A

She can't find her keys.

B

There is not sugar in the cupboard.

C

I not am feeling well today.

D

He will go not to the concert.

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