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a fool does not vs a fool do not

The correct phrase is 'a fool does not.' In this case, 'does' is the correct auxiliary verb to use with the singular subject 'a fool.' 'Do not' is used with plural subjects or the pronoun 'you.'

Last updated: March 17, 2024 • 448 views

a fool does not

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Use 'a fool does not' when referring to a singular subject, such as 'a fool,' followed by a verb phrase. 'Does not' is the correct form for the third person singular (he, she, it).

Examples:

  • A fool does not learn from his mistakes.
  • A fool does not understand the consequences of his actions.
  • A fool does not delight in understanding, But only in revealing his own mind. King James Bible A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may ...
  • A brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this. Holman Christian Standard Bible A stupid person does not know, a fool does not understand this:
  • Proverbs 18:2 (CSB) A fool does not delight in understanding, but only wants to ... Proverbs 18:2 (GNT) A fool does not care whether he understands a thing or ...
  • Jun 2, 2004 ... A fool does not delight in understanding, But only in revealing his own mind (18:2 ). Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, For he will despise the ...

Alternatives:

  • A fool does not understand.
  • A fool does not listen.
  • A fool does not care.
  • A fool does not think.
  • A fool does not believe.

a fool do not

This phrase is incorrect in standard English.

Avoid using 'a fool do not' as it does not match the subject-verb agreement. 'Do not' is used with plural subjects or the pronoun 'you.'
  • Lexham English Bible · Chapter Parallel · Proverbs 23:9 (LEB) In the ears of a fool do not speak, for he will despise the wisdom of your words.
  • In the ears of a fool do not speak, for he will despise the wisdom of your words. TLB. Don't waste your breath on a rebel. He will despise the wisest advice. MSG.
  • Be thou not swift to be wroth; for ire resteth in the bosom of a fool. (Do not thou be quick to get angry; for anger lieth in the heart of a fool.) YLT. Be not hasty in thy ...
  • Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers. (9) Speak not in the ears of a fool.— Do not waste thy time in explaining matters to him. A fool.—A dull, stupid person.

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