didn't you vs did you not

Both "didn't you" and "did you not" are correct constructions in English, but "didn't you" is more commonly used in everyday language. Both phrases are used to form negative questions, with "didn't you" being the more natural and informal choice.

Last updated: April 08, 2024 • 635 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"didn't you"

This phrase is used to form negative questions in a more informal and natural way.

Examples:

Didn't you go to the party last night?
Didn't you like the movie?
Didn't you hear what I said?
Didn't you finish your homework?
Didn't you see the sign?

Show examples from the web [+]

You kidnapped that prisoner, didn't you?
Why didn't you wait for me...
Why didn't you bring something?
Why didn't you bring more ammunition?
Why didn't you explain what happened?
Why didn't you continue your education?
Why didn't you take an earlier train?
Why didn't you take the deal Grimes offered you?
Why didn't you take the hat?
Why didn't you report Francesca then?
Why didn't you keep firing?
Why didn't you sound the horn?
Why didn't you include any names?
Why didn't you take the freeway?
Why didn't you let him catch me?
Why didn't you keep watch?
Why didn't you evacuate the compartment to space?
Why didn't you save my husband?
Corporal Paris, why didn't you leave the trenches?
Why didn't you burn that letter too?

Alternatives:

Did you not

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in everyday language.

"did you not"

This phrase is also used to form negative questions, but it is more formal and less common in everyday speech.

Examples:

Did you not receive my email?
Did you not understand the instructions?
Did you not see the warning?
Did you not hear the announcement?
Did you not notice the change?

Show examples from the web [+]

Why did you not accept the medal?
Why did you not get glasses for our guests?
Why did you not utilise the telephone?
How did you not subpoena that footage?
Why did you not unlock the doors?
And why did you not wed Thomas?
Why did you not shave his armpits?
Why did you not foresee this?
Why did you not wait at northern gate as ordered?
Why did you not seize opportunity?
Then why did you not dispatch a messenger?
And why did you not call for a trauma consult?
Reynaud, did you not hear Colbert addressing you in Council?
Why did you not defend yourself?
Which oddities did you not explore, and why?
Why did you not learn at school?
And did you not find such occurrences shocking, eminency?
Why did you not speak about this?
Why did you not confront these Danes?
Why did you not decide to adapt legislation instead?

Alternatives:

Didn't you

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

didn't you vs did you not

"didn't you"

"did you not"

2. Submit Your Text

3. Receive Your Polished Text