Negative question
Definition
A negative question contains not, usually contracted with an auxiliary or modal. It can request information, check an expectation, express surprise, or encourage agreement.
Examples
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Didn't you see the message?
The speaker may have expected the listener to see the message.
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Isn't the shop open yet?
The question checks an expectation about the shop.
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Why haven't they replied?
The negative question asks for the reason an expected action has not happened.
Neutral question vs. negative question
Did Maya call?
The speaker does not clearly signal an expectation.
Didn't Maya call?
The speaker probably expected Maya to call or believes that she did.
A negative question often reveals an assumption, expectation, reaction, or preferred answer.
Contracted and uncontracted forms differ in style
Contracted negative questions are common in conversation. An uncontracted negative can sound more formal or place stronger emphasis on the negative element.
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Haven't you finished yet?
The contracted form is natural in ordinary conversation.
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Have you not received the confirmation?
The uncontracted form is more formal and emphasizes not.
Common mistakes
Didn't she went home?
Didn't she go home?
After didn't, use the base form of the main verb.
Why you didn't call?
Why didn't you call?
A direct negative question normally places the auxiliary before the subject.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which negative question is structurally correct?
After didn't, use the base verb receive.Which question most clearly checks an expectation?
The negative question suggests that the speaker expected a six o'clock arrival.Which formal negative question is correct?
The formal order is auxiliary + subject + not + participle/base form.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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