What does not mean?
The adverb “not” is a fundamental English word used to express negation, or the absence of something being true, possible, or expected. It commonly appears after the verb or auxiliary in a clause, as in “They are not ready,” and can also negate adjectives, adverbs, and entire propositions. Its placement can create meaningful contrasts: “He did not call because he was busy” and “He did not call, because he was busy” do not necessarily communicate the same emphasis. In fixed expressions such as “not only,” “not at all,” and “not necessarily,” it forms especially common combinations. Although “not” is usually thought of as a simple negative particle, it plays an important role in questions and emphatic replies, where it can replace a longer negative expression, such as “Do you agree?” followed by “I do not.” Its simple function makes it indispensable in everyday communication.
adverbA word used to make an affirmative statement, clause, or answer negative, expressing that something is not true, not the case, or not possible. It can also indicate a negative expectation or contrast, as in “It’s not that I disagree.”
- Used to negate a word, phrase, or clause, especially a verb, adjective, or another adverb.
- Used to express that a statement is false, incorrect, or contrary to what is expected.
- Used in emphatic constructions, especially in fixed phrases such as “not at all” and “not only.”
"She was not ready to leave, so they waited for the rain to ease."
"The results were not surprising, given how difficult the test had been."
"“Are you coming tonight?” — “No, I am not.”"
The little word that can reverse the direction of an entire sentence—and, in questions, make an answer possible.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does not come from?
The word “not” comes from Old English “nōt,” a negative adverb that developed from the Germanic negation system. The modern form entered Middle English and gradually became the standard way to negate verbs and other parts of speech in English. English also contains related negative words such as “no,” “none,” “nought,” and “nothing,” reflecting the broad Germanic pattern of forming negatives with dedicated particles.
How not is actually used
“Not” is extremely common in formal and informal English. In many standard varieties, it follows the word it negates, as in “is not ready,” though “isn’t” is more frequent in speech. Its placement can affect meaning, especially when it contrasts with another element or occurs before a noun, as in “It was not his fault.”
Easily confused with not
“Not” is a negation, whereas a “knot” is a loop or fastening made by tying a cord or rope.