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could not have done vs could have not done

Both "could not have done" and "could have not done" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Could not have done" is the more common and natural construction in English, used to express that something was impossible to do in the past. On the other hand, "could have not done" is less common and is used to emphasize the negation of having done something in the past.

Last updated: March 30, 2024

could not have done

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express that something was impossible to do in the past.

This phrase is used to indicate that it was not possible to do something in the past. It is often used to express regret or relief about a past event.

Examples:

  • I could not have done it without your help.
  • She could not have done anything to prevent the accident.
  • They could not have done better in the circumstances.
  • He could not have done more to support his friend.
  • We could not have done anything differently.

Alternatives:

  • could not do
  • could not accomplish
  • could not achieve
  • could not perform
  • could not manage

could have not done

This phrase is correct but less common in English. It is used to emphasize the negation of having done something in the past.

This phrase is used to emphasize that something was not done in the past. It is often used for emphasis or to contrast with what was expected or assumed.

Examples:

  • I could have not done it any better.
  • She could have not done more to help.
  • They could have not done anything differently.
  • He could have not done it without your support.
  • We could have not done anything to change the outcome.

Alternatives:

  • could not have done
  • could have avoided
  • could have refrained from
  • could have abstained from
  • could have skipped

Related Comparisons

has not been done vs have not been done you could have also done vs you could also have done dare not have done vs dare not do could also have done vs could have also done might have been doing vs might have done I could have ever done vs I could ever have done

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