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Use of the verb 'do'

 
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1W5



Joined: 07 Jan 2015
Posts: 7
Location: Western Europe

PostPosted: Fri Feb 20, 2015 1:10 am    Post subject: Use of the verb 'do' Reply with quote

What are the grammatical differences in the two sentences below:

(1) Pollution knows no borders.
(2) I don't know this book.

For the first sentence: Can I also say 'Pollution doesn't know borders.'?

And in the second sentence: Can I also say 'I know no this book.'? For me this sounds totally wrong.

When I use "do" and when it isn't necessary?
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teacherBob



Joined: 02 Jan 2015
Posts: 21
Location: online

PostPosted: Sun Feb 22, 2015 1:14 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

There are certain verbs which can use this 'no' form but you need to learn them carefully. If in doubt use don't/doesn't. Some that you see may just be bad grammar!

You can rewrite the 1st sentence as pollution doesn't know any borders. - ie it doesn't recognise borders and it doesn't matter where they are or of what type.
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1W5



Joined: 07 Jan 2015
Posts: 7
Location: Western Europe

PostPosted: Wed Feb 25, 2015 11:18 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

@teacherBob: Thanks for your reply!

Well, what do you mean with 'Some that you may see just be bad grammar!'. I understand the meaning though what it refers to?
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teacherBob



Joined: 02 Jan 2015
Posts: 21
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PostPosted: Thu Feb 26, 2015 12:58 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

I was especially thinking of the Rolling Stones song - I can't get no satisfaction! It should be I can't get any satisfaction but it doesn't sing so well Very Happy
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1W5



Joined: 07 Jan 2015
Posts: 7
Location: Western Europe

PostPosted: Thu Feb 26, 2015 12:52 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Yep. I'm really surprised about this new aspect! As a matter of fact, I conclude that grammar sometimes is fun. :o)
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