How to Make a Negative Sentence with "Not" in the Present Tense

Knowing how to make negative sentences with "not" is really important for speaking and writing well in English. This guide will help you learn how to create negative sentences in the present tense. This is a basic skill for Year 1 English students in Swedish schools.

Simple Structure of Negative Sentences

In English, we usually use the helper verb "do" (or "does" for he, she, or it) with "not" to create negative sentences in the present tense. Here’s an easy structure to follow:

Subject + Helper Verb (do/does) + not + Base Form of the Main Verb

Examples of the Structure

1. I do not (don't) like broccoli.

   • Subject: I
   • Helper Verb: do
   • Main Verb: like

2. She does not (doesn't) play football.

   • Subject: She
   • Helper Verb: does
   • Main Verb: play

When to Use "Do" or "Does"

• Use "do" with:

  • I
  • You
  • We
  • They

• Use "does" with:

  • He
  • She
  • It

More Simple Examples

Here are a few more sentences to help you see how to form negative sentences:

• We do not (don't) understand the lesson.
• They do not (don't) go to the park every day.
• He does not (doesn't) eat meat.
• It does not (doesn't) work properly.

Short Forms

In everyday speech, we often use shorter forms for a relaxed style. These shorter forms happen when we mix the helper verb with "not."

• do not becomes don't
• does not becomes doesn't

Important Words

• Subject: The person or thing doing the action (like I, you, she, it).
• Helper Verb: A short verb that helps the main verb (do/does).
• Main Verb: The action word in the sentence (like like, play, go, eat).

Try It Yourself

Now that you know the steps, have a go at making your own sentences. Use these prompts to create negative sentences:

1. (I / like / swimming)
2. (He / play / chess)
3. (They / want / ice cream)

Remember:

• Think about the subject to know if you should use "do" or "does."
• Always put "not" after the helper verb.

In Conclusion

Making negative sentences with "not" in the present tense is pretty easy once you learn the structure and rules. With practice, you’ll feel more confident using negatives when you speak or write. Keep these tips in mind, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it!