n't

UK: nt | US: nt

Definition

  1. contraction. the contracted form of "not" (used with auxiliary verbs to form negatives).

Structure
n <shortened from "not">' <contraction mark>
Etymology

The contraction "n't" is a clipped form of "not," originating in Middle English as a way to streamline speech and writing. The apostrophe marks the omission of letters ("o" in "not"). It became standardized in Early Modern English with auxiliary verbs (e.g., "isn't," "don't"), reflecting spoken English's tendency toward efficiency.

Examples

  1. She isn't coming to the party.

  2. They don't like spicy food.

  3. He hasn't finished his homework yet.

  4. We couldn't find the keys.

  5. You shouldn't worry about it.