don't + instruction

Telling Someone Not to Do Something

Level 1

Don't before a base verb gives a negative instruction: Don't touch this. Its meaning is an instruction rather than a description of what a person usually does.

How It Works

Don't before a base verb tells someone not to do that action. Don't touch this is a negative instruction. It differs from She don't touch this, which can describe her usual behaviour in a relevant context.

The instruction can protect someone, set a boundary or make a request. Keep the action explicit enough for the listener to know what to avoid. A particle may alter the interpersonal stance, but it is not compulsory. Do not turn don't into cannot automatically: an instruction not to act and an assertion that an action is impossible are different meanings.

Examples (4)

  1. Don't touch the wire.

    Do not touch the wire.

  2. Don't leave your bag here.

    Do not leave your bag here.

  3. Don't rush.

    Do not hurry.

  4. Please don't block the door.

    Please do not block the door.

How It Connects

Tap a pattern to see what it builds on and what it leads to.

don't + instructionLevel 1Telling Someone Not to Do Something

Learn This First

Start with the requested action before prohibiting it with a negative instruction.