Question about negative sentences
Unarguably, the construction 'auxiliary verb + not' seems to be the most common but not the only possible structure. In historic texts you can often find structures like this one:

"The mildness of my nature had fled, and all within me was turned to gall and bitterness. The nearer I approached to your habitation, the more deeply did I feel the spirit of revenge enkindled in my heart. Snow fell, and the waters were hardened, but I rested not."

Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein (AmazonClassics Edition) (p. 68). Amazon Classics. Kindle Edition.

"... but I rested not." To be honest, I really like this grammar version. Is it formal or outdated or reserved for (fictional) literature? Please, would you help me with an explanation?

Question

Question about negative sentences
Unarguably, the construction 'auxiliary verb + not' seems to be the most common but not the only possible structure. In historic texts you can often find structures like this one:

"The mildness of my nature had fled, and all within me was turned to gall and bitterness. The nearer I approached to your habitation, the more deeply did I feel the spirit of revenge enkindled in my heart. Snow fell, and the waters were hardened, but I rested not."

Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein (AmazonClassics Edition) (p. 68). Amazon Classics. Kindle Edition.

"... but I rested not." To be honest, I really like this grammar version. Is it formal or outdated or reserved for (fictional) literature? Please, would you help me with an explanation?

Answer

It's correct, but it's very dated. I expect to hear this language when I'm watching a period-piece that takes place before the 1900s, maybe even earlier.

There is a certain charm when using this language. "Do you love me, or do you love me not?" If this is said today by someone, they are going out of their way to sound old-fashioned and poetic.

Answer

Hello!
We actually use this type of speech to make a point with a little bit of sarcasm or "tongue in the cheek" banter. It could also be used in the context of someone being reprimanded in a rather formal way or setting.
I hope that helps!

Answer

It is formal. Today, you’d most likely see it in a speech. It would be very unusual to use it in daily conversation. It would sound odd.

Answer

I am here to also meet a wonderful people to have a new friend maybe we can talk somewhere else I really appreciate this app is very nice to meet nice people

Answer

Many still say "I dare not provoke her!" or "I dare not do this" for instance. :)

Answers · 9

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