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Andrea
"is not", "isn't" Which form is more common?
Tom is not a lawyer. / Tom isn't a lawyer.
Those people are not English. / Those people aren't English.
Which form is more common in formal situation?
And which form is more common in spoken English?
Thanks!
Jan 16, 2012 4:16 PM
Answers · 5
3
"is not" is more formal than "isn't", but "isn't" is by far more common in usage and would not be considered incorrect, even in a formal situation.
January 16, 2012
1
The general rule is to not use contractions such as "isn't" for formal writing, such as academic papers and business proposals.
For speaking, it's natural to use contractions. During rapid speech, people will contract words that are not even formally recognized as contractions or taught in English classes.
While speaking however, when you want to emphasize the negative "not" or to be very clear, you will use the long form. For example, when you are arguing about something with your friend, "No, he's NOT. He's NOT married." Notice that I even contracted "he is not" as "he's not" and not "he isn't," because I'm emphasizing the negative.
January 17, 2012
1
"Isn't" is more common in spoken English. A basic rule of formal English (spoken and written) is full words, no contractions: "is not".
It's hardly a horrible mistake to use "isn't" in a formal setting, but people might think you are a little lazy. Maybe.
January 16, 2012
Generally "isn't" is used more. However, "is not" is also used for emphasism or when writing a formal letter or talking in a business setting.
January 17, 2012
"Isn't" is common in American spoken English.
January 16, 2012
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Andrea
Language Skills
Arabic (Modern Standard), Chinese (Mandarin), Chinese (Shanghainese), English, French, Japanese, Portuguese
Learning Language
English, French, Japanese
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