"Name three things that, if you were told were part of the job, would cause you to not take the position. "
I've just come across this sentence while reading the news.
Question is: Why to not is used instead of not to? This usage in this way imposes different meaning?
Best Answer
.....would cause you to not take the position.
In the sentence, the infinitive "to take" has been split. Instead of using "not to take", "to not take" has been used. In fact, both the phrases convey the same meaning. The only difference is that the former phrase is more common and clear than the latter phrase. It's up to you to use a phrase that is much preferable and clear or the phrase that isn't common and easy on the ear.