Learn English – How to use a “not” while requesting

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I am getting confused to use a "not" while requesting. e.g.
I request you not to think in this way. I am not sure whether it is correct? But, I need to be clear how to use "not" in such situations.

Best Answer

One of the problems you're running into is that you're request should take the form of a mandative subjunctive. If you're stuck on theis form, properly it looks like

I request you not think in this way.

Which is a strange request out of context. Some other examples which might be more helpful:

  • I request that you not be hasty in your appraisal.
  • I request that you not be late for this class.
  • I request that I not be contacted via email, snail mail, or any other correspondence provided by your firm.
  • I request that they not be identified to any of these individuals.

Etc. In other words, am, are, is are replaced by be.

It's usually easier to just not use the subjunctive negative.

  • Please do not contact me with any further offers.
  • Please do not be late for this class.
  • Please do not be negative in your thinking.