Decided not to replace reports a decision against replacement. Have not decided to replace says that a decision to replace has not been made; the choice may still be open.
The idea
The common negative infinitive pattern is not to + base verb: try not to spill. After an object, use reminded me not to leave. For a negative purpose, so as not to and in order not to make the link clear.
Examples
- We decided not to replace the old bench.
- We haven't decided to replace the old bench.
- Please try not to spill the ink.
- Nora reminded me not to leave the key inside.
- They left quietly so as not to wake the baby.
- It's fine not to know the answer yet.
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Watch out
To not + verb is also possible; do not label every split infinitive wrong. Negating the main verb can change the meaning. A reminder not to leave a key does not establish whether the person obeyed.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct option. Please try ___ the ink. (not to spill / not spill)
Show answer or example answer
not to spill
Try not to spill negates the spilling. This infinitive complement needs to; try not spill is incomplete.
Choose the correct option. Nora reminded me ___ the key inside. (not to leave / to do not leave)
Show answer or example answer
not to leave
Reminded me not to leave is the usual negative object–infinitive pattern. Do not insert do after to.
Which sentence reports a decision against replacement? (We decided not to replace it. / We have not decided to replace it.)
Show answer or example answer
We decided not to replace it.
We decided not to replace it states a decision against replacement. Have not decided to replace it does not establish that opposite decision.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct option. Please try ___ the ink. (not to spill / not spill)
Choose the correct option. Nora reminded me ___ the key inside. (not to leave / to do not leave)
Which sentence reports a decision against replacement? (We decided not to replace it. / We have not decided to replace it.)
We decided not to replace it.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Keep your progress
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Write a decision against changing something, then a sentence saying you have not made a decision yet. Add a reminder and a negative purpose; identify exactly what each not negates.