Negative Infinitives

 

Here’s an inspiring quote from Albert Einstein: "Try not to become a man of success. Rather become a man of value.”

In this quote there is a great example of a grammar rule, which is how to make an infinitive negative. The famous line from Shakespeare’s Hamlet “To be, or not to be?” can help you remember the rule too: When making an infinitive negative, you put “not” before the infinitive.

Examples: 

• Marco decided not to go to Paris.
• Olga chose not to fly on the holiday. 
• I always try not to be late.
• It’s best not to drive if you are tired. 

An infinitive is the basic form of a verb with "to": to + verb  (example: to sing/to drive/to go). A split infinitive occurs whenever a word appears between ‘to’ and the verb. Here are those same sentences as split infinitives: 

• Marco decided to not go to Paris.
• Olga chose to not fly on the holiday. 
• I always try to not be late.
• It’s best to not drive if you are tired. 

Generally, experts don’t approve of split infinitives so the recommendation is to use them only  in informal situations.

 Try not to forget this grammar rule ;)

Speaking politely

It always helps to use polite words when communicating but sometimes, when learning a new language, we don’t know whether something we say is impolite or not. Here I will try to distinguish polite and informal / overly casual expressions so you will always be correct in any social situation. 

1. When making polite requests, use the modals would or could (+ simple verb +) : 

Would you wait a moment, please? 

Could I borrow your pen?

2. Will or can (+ simple verb +) are acceptaple but a little less formal: 

Will you show me how to install the new software?

Can you repeat that, please? I didn’t hear you. 

3. I would like  / or I’ll have. . .  (not I want): I would like a hamburger and a Coca Cola, please. 

4.  Let me know (not tell me): Let me know when you’re available. 

5. I prefer / or I’d rather / or I’m not too fond of / or I’m not a fan of . . (not I don’t like). 

I’m not too fond of the mountains / I’d rather go somewhere else instead of the mountains. (not I don’t like the mountains.)

6. I disagree / I’m afraid I disagree (not you’re wrong): 

It’s better to use more indirect speech when pointing our someone’s error. It’s a solfter, less offensive way to communicate your opposing view. 

An even less direct way to correct someone is to say actually / or I think you’re mistaken, and then give the correct information. 

We don’t want to offend anyone so keep these phrases in mind and the world will be a happier place. Also, don’t forget that please, thank you, and excuse me are universally polite and should be used often!