What's the difference between these two examples:
- Don't you understand me?
- Do you not understand me?
- Don't you understand me?
- Do you not understand me?
'Do you not' or 'Don't you'
No. 2 would usually imply surprise or incredulity or weariness on the part of the speaker.
No. 1 is neutral. Surprise, etc. would have to be imparted by intonation.
No. 1 is neutral. Surprise, etc. would have to be imparted by intonation.
"Do you understand me?"
"Don't you understand me?"
"Do you not understand me?"
All convey slightly different levels of doubt as to whether the other person understands, from very little (the first) to a lot (the last).
"Don't you understand me?"
"Do you not understand me?"
All convey slightly different levels of doubt as to whether the other person understands, from very little (the first) to a lot (the last).
It seems to me full forms are ceremonious, like
You know what I mean, do you not?
"Do you not understand me?" might lengthen the distance between the partners in conversation. It might be intentional.
It might also bear more emphasis.
You know what I mean, do you not?
"Do you not understand me?" might lengthen the distance between the partners in conversation. It might be intentional.
It might also bear more emphasis.