Lily Grammar Show

1. 否定疑问句的结构

一般疑问句：Is he a worker?

否定疑问句：Isn't he a worker?

一般疑问句：Can you see me?

否定疑问句：Can't you see me?

2. 否定疑问句的功能

a) 加强语气的反问

e.g. Didn’t you see Ann yesterday? How is she doing?  

(暗含I believe you saw Ann yesterday. How is she doing?)

Don't you wish you looked like us? (from It's OK To Be Me)

(暗含I believe you wish you looked like us.)

b) 更为婉转的表达观点或建议

e.g. Wouldn’t it be nice to paint that wall green? 

(暗含It would be nice to paint that wall green.)

c) 表示抱怨、邀请、赞美等

e.g. Wouldn’t you like something to drink? (表邀请)

Isn't she the most beautiful bride in the world? (表赞美)

3. 否定疑问句的回答

提问：Don't you have money?（难道你没钱吗？）

回答方式一：No, I don't. （是的，我没钱。）或 Yes, I do.（不，我有钱。）  

回答方式二：No, I gave it all to Lucy. 或 Yes, but not enough for this item.