19.7. Forming Simple Questions with 'Do' and 'Does': Using 'Do' and 'Does' in Negative Questions

Forming simple questions in English is a fundamental skill for beginners, especially when learning to communicate effectively. One of the key aspects of forming questions is understanding how to use auxiliary verbs like "do" and "does." These auxiliary verbs are essential in constructing both positive and negative questions in the present simple tense. In this section, we'll focus on using "do" and "does" in negative questions, providing a comprehensive guide to help beginners grasp this concept.

Understanding the Basics of 'Do' and 'Does'

Before diving into negative questions, it's crucial to understand the role of "do" and "does" in forming questions. In English, "do" and "does" are used as auxiliary verbs to form questions in the present simple tense. The choice between "do" and "does" depends on the subject of the sentence:

• Do: Used with plural subjects and the pronouns I, you, we, and they.
• Does: Used with singular third-person subjects, such as he, she, and it.

For example:

• Do you like apples?
• Does he play soccer?

Forming Negative Questions with 'Do' and 'Does'

Negative questions are often used to express surprise, offer suggestions, or seek confirmation. They are formed by adding "not" after "do" or "does," and are often contracted to "don't" or "doesn't" in spoken and informal written English.

Structure of Negative Questions

The structure for forming negative questions is as follows:

• Do/Does + Subject + Not + Base Form of the Verb + ...?

Let's break it down with examples:

• Do + You + Not + Like + Coffee?
  Do you not like coffee? (Formal)
  Don't you like coffee? (Informal)
• Does + She + Not + Go + To School?
  Does she not go to school? (Formal)
  Doesn't she go to school? (Informal)

Usage of Negative Questions

Negative questions can serve various purposes in conversation:

1. Expressing Surprise or Disbelief

When you are surprised about something, you might use a negative question to express this feeling:

• Don't you know the answer?
• Doesn't he like chocolate?

2. Making Suggestions

Negative questions can also be used to suggest an idea or action:

• Don't we try the new restaurant?
• Doesn't she join the club?

3. Seeking Confirmation

Sometimes, you might use a negative question to confirm information you believe to be true:

• Don't you work at the library?
• Doesn't he live nearby?

Common Mistakes and Tips

Here are some common mistakes learners make when forming negative questions, along with tips to avoid them:

Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Auxiliary Verb

Beginners often confuse "do" and "does." Remember:

• Use "do" with I, you, we, and they.
• Use "does" with he, she, and it.

Mistake 2: Incorrect Word Order

Ensure that the word order follows the correct structure:

• Do/Does + Subject + Not + Base Form of the Verb + ...?

For example:

• Incorrect: Does not she like pizza?
• Correct: Doesn't she like pizza?

Mistake 3: Forgetting to Use the Base Form of the Verb

Always use the base form of the verb after "do" or "does." Avoid adding "s" or "es" to the verb:

• Incorrect: Doesn't he likes music?
• Correct: Doesn't he like music?

Practice Exercises

To reinforce your understanding, try forming negative questions using the following prompts:

1. you / like / ice cream
2. she / play / the piano
3. they / want / to go home
4. he / know / the answer
5. we / need / help

Answers:

1. Don't you like ice cream?
2. Doesn't she play the piano?
3. Don't they want to go home?
4. Doesn't he know the answer?
5. Don't we need help?

Conclusion

Forming negative questions with "do" and "does" is an essential skill for beginners in English. By understanding the structure and purpose of these questions, learners can communicate more effectively and express a range of emotions and intentions. Practice regularly, pay attention to common mistakes, and soon you'll be forming negative questions with ease!