Contractions with ‘not’

key notes:

Definition of Contractions:

• Contractions are shortened forms of two words where an apostrophe replaces missing letters.

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Common Contractions with ‘Not’:

In these contractions, the word “not” is shortened and joined with another word, usually a verb or helping verb.

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Examples include:

• is not → isn’t
• are not → aren’t
• was not → wasn’t
• were not → weren’t
• has not → hasn’t
• have not → haven’t
• will not → won’t
• would not → wouldn’t
• cannot → can’t

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How Contractions are Formed:

• The apostrophe takes the place of the “o” in “not.”
• Exception: will not becomes won’t, where the letters change.

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Usage in Sentences:

Contractions with “not” are often used in informal writing and speaking.

Example:

• Formal: She will not go to the party.
• Informal: She won’t go to the party.

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Avoiding Double Negatives:

• When using contractions with “not,” be careful not to use double negatives (e.g., I don’t have nothing should be I don’t have anything).

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Practice Identifying and Creating Contractions:

• Convert sentences with “not” into contractions and vice versa for practice.
• Example: They are not coming becomes They aren’t coming.

let’s practice!