Which is Correct: 'Not to' or 'To Not'? A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to using infinitives in English, determining the correct form can sometimes be confusing. In formal writing, including academic and professional contexts, the usage of 'not to' and 'to not' is particularly important. Let's explore the correct usage of these phrases and why they are vital for clear communication.

Correct Form: 'Not to'

In the negative form of infinitives, the correct structure is 'not to.' This is a fundamental rule in English grammar. For instance:

I would prefer not to sit at the front.

This construction is widely accepted and used in formal contexts. When John Eastwood, the author of 'Oxford Guide to English Grammar,' discusses this in detail, he emphasizes the importance of this rule. As stated in his textbook, the negative 'not' should precede the infinitive form. For example:

I would love to have my own flat. My own means belonging to me and not to anyone else.

These examples illustrate the proper use of 'not to' in both preference and possessive contexts.

Incorrect Use of 'To Not'

It's important to note that using 'to not' is incorrect in standard English. This construction may appear in informal speech or writing but is not suitable for academic or professional settings. The Oxford English Dictionary himself has declared that the split infinitive, of which 'to not' is a variant, is no longer a problem in the English language. Therefore, to avoid confusion and maintain clarity, it is best to use 'not to.' Here are some examples of incorrect usage:

She reached to open the door. In this sentence, the subject did not open the door; instead, she used the action to achieve a goal.

Another common example of incorrect usage is:

You won't eat this even if you're hungry! Corresponding to the correct form would be: 'You will not eat this even if you are hungry.'

Historical Context: 'To Not' and 'Not to' in Formal Grammar

The usage of 'not to' and 'to not' in the English language has a rich history, influenced by the traditional grammatical rules modeled after the ancient Greek and Latin languages. In classical language, the infinitive form was a single word, which led to the imposition of 'to' and 'eat' not being separated in the English language. However, this has changed over time:

It was once considered incorrect to 'split the infinitive,' meaning to place a word between 'to' and the verb in an infinitive. However, this practice is no longer considered a violation of grammatical rules. The Oxford English Dictionary and many modern grammar guides now recognize that the split infinitive is a standard part of the English language.

Conclusion

In summary, when writing formally, always use 'not to' in the negative form of infinitives. Incorrect usage such as 'to not' can lead to confusion and is not recommended in academic or professional contexts.

By adhering to these rules, you can ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and grammatically correct, making it more accessible and professional for your audience.