[Grammar] To not or not to

[Yura Reiri]

I'm really confused about this thing.

My teacher's answer is contrary to what I read from books.

Which is correct?

I was asked to not lie.

or I was asked not to lie.

Thank you.

 

[SoothingDave]

Both ways are understandable and found in use.

"Not to lie" is probably the preferred way.

Not to be or to not be? That is the question.

 

[Yura Reiri]

Both ways are understandable and found in use.

"Not to lie" is probably the preferred way.

Not to be or to not be? That is the question.

Thank you. So, for that question, which should it be?

 

[SoothingDave]

Most people would recommend putting the "not" before the "to verb." "Not to lie," rather than "to not lie."

What did your teacher say?

 

[TheParser]

I'm really confused about this thing.

My teacher's answer is contrary to what I read from books.

Which is correct?

I was asked to not lie.

or I was asked not to lie.

Thank you.

***** NOT A TEACHER *****



Hello, Ms. Reiri:


(1) I always remember what Shakespeare said:

To be or not to be.

(2) If it was good enough for Shakespeare, then it must be

good enough for me -- and your teacher.


Sincerely,


James

 

[Yura Reiri]

Most people would recommend putting the "not" before the "to verb." "Not to lie," rather than "to not lie."

What did your teacher say?

She said not to lie.

But then, I've been reading novels recently and it's just the other way around.

 

[Tdol]

We do split infinitives, and with the negative, I use to not to show extra emphasis or volition:
She told me not to lie- normal form
She told me to not lie- I am a notorious liar and she was laying down the law