not

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Negates the meaning of the modified verb.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

Did you take out the trash? — No, I did not. I do not think it was my turn, was it?

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To no degree.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

Used to indicate the opposite or near opposite, often in a form of understatement.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “not” mean?

Negates the meaning of the modified verb.

Is “not” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.