Im not supposed to vs Im supposed not to

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'I'm not supposed to' is more commonly used in everyday language and informal situations. On the other hand, 'I'm supposed not to' is less common and sounds more formal or old-fashioned.

Last updated: March 31, 2024 • 1004 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in everyday language.

"Im not supposed to"

This phrase is used to express that something is prohibited or not allowed.

Examples:

I'm not supposed to eat in my room.
I'm not supposed to tell anyone about this.
I'm not supposed to be here after hours.

Show examples from the web [+]

We were not supposed to leave.
We're not supposed to tell our neighbors, and we're definitely not supposed to tell our office neighbors.
Doing something I'm not supposed to.
You are not supposed to shut this computer down.
Until then we're not supposed to use the toilet too often.
Dalai Lama is not supposed to eat pork.
It's not supposed to happen, but it does.
I have epilepsy and I'm not supposed to drink.
It's not supposed to happen during a war, but it does.
We're not supposed to touch her till Family Services arrives.
They're not supposed to do that.
White wine is not supposed to hit the side.
Only she's not supposed to know.
It's not supposed to be handy, Basil.
Doing it somewhere we're not supposed to.
You're not supposed to be calling me on this line.
They say you're not supposed to spin angry.
And he's not supposed to be sitting at the bar.
You're not supposed to lie.
Seven is not supposed to be open for another week.

Alternatives:

I shouldn't
I'm not allowed to
I'm prohibited from

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in modern English. It may sound more formal or old-fashioned.

"Im supposed not to"

This phrase is also used to express that something is prohibited or not allowed.

Examples:

I'm supposed not to reveal the secret.
I'm supposed not to leave the premises unattended.
I'm supposed not to use my phone during work hours.

Show examples from the web [+]

And you're supposed not to take the cards from the display.
Furthermore, under the terms of Article 118A, we are supposed not to impose any 'administrative, financial and legal constraints which might inhibit the development of SMEs'.
And this is supposed not to worry us.
How am I supposed not to worry?

Alternatives:

I should not
I am required not to
I must not

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

Im not supposed to vs Im supposed not to