don't
- auxiliary
- /doʊnt/
- Informal
- Don't touch the stove because it is very hot.
Examples
-
If you don't understand the instructions, please ask for help.
-
Please don't make so much noise while others are working.
-
Don't go!
-
Please don't forget.
-
Don't touch the stove because it is very hot.
-
If you don't understand the instructions, please ask for help.
-
Please don't make so much noise while others are working.
Idioms
- Informal
Warn someone not to mention a topic because they talk a lot and get upset
- Informal
A warning not to talk about a subject because it may make people angry
- Archaic
To tell viewers or listeners to keep watching and not change the channel during a break in the show
A dramatic way to tell people not to be sad when you leave, from the musical Evita
Says that someone's application or request is rejected and ends the conversation
- Offensive
A joking way to say someone is not good enough to do something as a job
- Offensive
Avoid mixing your personal life with your work life because it causes problems
An informal phrase to show hope that something will happen if nothing goes wrong
- Informal
To stop being angry with someone but keep remembering what they did to avoid being hurt again
- Offensive
A joking saying that people of Asian background seem to stay looking young for a long time
- Offensive
A joking phrase that shows old ideas about how men should act
Compounds
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Don't is a short form of do + not, with a small written mark called an apostrophe showing the missing letters. It is a quick way to say 'do not', so don't marks a negative sentence or tells someone not to do something.