Negative structures – grammar exercise

Complete the following sentences.

1. ……………….. – I will look after you.

2. I liked the salad but I ………………….. the soup.

3. It is important that she ………………… what is happening.

4. You ……………….. Margaret – she already knows.

5. ………………….. quick results when you start learning a new language.

6. It is important ………………… waste your time.

7. You seldom work on Sundays, ………………….?

8. He has few reasons for quitting, ………………….?

9. There is little point in asking him, ……………….?

10. She doesn’t work here, ………………….?

Answers

1. Don’t worry – I will look after you.

2. I liked the salad but I didn’t like the soup.

3. It is important that she not realize what is happening. (Do is not used with negative subjunctives.)

4. You needn’t tell Margaret – she already knows.

5. Do not expect quick results when you start learning a new language.

6. It is important not to waste your time.

7. You seldom work on Sundays, do you?

8. He has few reasons for quitting, has he? (The words few, little and seldom have negative meanings, and hence they are followed by affirmative tags.)

9. There is little point in asking him, is there?

10. She doesn’t work here, does she?