"not to" vs "to not"

Question

"not to" vs "to not"

Both "not to" and "to not" are correct constructions in English, but they are used in different contexts. "Not to" is commonly used before an infinitive verb to express a negative purpose or intention, while "to not" is used when the negation applies directly to the verb. The choice between them depends on the emphasis you want to give to the negation.

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

Use "not to" before an infinitive verb to indicate a negative purpose or intention. For example, "I told him not to call me late at night."

Examples:

She decided not to go to the party.
He asked her not to forget to bring the documents.
They promised not to reveal the secret.
I prefer not to eat spicy food.
It's important not to miss the deadline.

Alternatives:

to avoid
to prevent
to refrain from
to abstain from
to steer clear of

Use "to not" when you want to place the negation directly before the verb. For example, "She decided to not go to the party."

Examples:

I chose to not participate in the competition.
He wanted to not disturb her while she was working.
They planned to not reveal their strategy until the last moment.
She tried to not think about the problem.
It's better to not rush into making a decision.

Alternatives:

not to
to avoid
to prevent
to refrain from
to abstain from

Answer 1

not to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English. It is used before an infinitive verb to express a negative purpose or intention.

Answer 2

to not

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English. It is used when the negation applies directly to the verb.

"not to" vs "to not"

not to

to not

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