Learn English – Should I use “not” or “don’t”

do-supportnegation

Let's not make a big deal out of it.

Let's don't make a big deal out of it.

You are just trying to make us not practice.
You are just trying to make us don't practice.

Should I use "not" or "don't"?

Best Answer

In your first pair

  • Let's not is grammatically "correct" and common in all registers; using it in conversation will not make you sound affected or pedantic.
  • Let's don't is grammatically "incorrect" but often heard informally; it should not be used in formal writing, but will not expose you to scorn if used in conversation.

In your second pair

  • Make us not practice is grammatically acceptable, but would be used only in conversation; and even there something like keep us from practicing would be more usual.
  • Make us don't practice is unacceptable in any register.
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