#  >> K-12 >> K-12 Basics

How to Avoid a Double Negative

A double negative is considered a grammatical mistake both in written and oral communication. It happens when two "no" words are used in the same sentence. For example, the sentence "I am not going to no store" is a double negative. The presence of "not" and "no" in the same sentence makes it grammatically incorrect. When you speak in double negatives, you could be confusing the person listening.

Instructions

    • 1

      Think about what you are trying to communicate before you write or say anything.

    • 2

      Use only one negative word in your sentence. Negative words include "no," "not," "none," "nothing," "nowhere," "neither," "nobody," "no one," "hardly," "barely" and "scarcely."

    • 3

      Remove any second references of a negative word and use a positive word in its place. For example, instead of saying "I hardly have none," say "I have some."

    • 4

      Proofread your paper and look for any sentences containing a double negative.

Learnify Hub © www.0685.com All Rights Reserved