Forming the negative infinitive

NEGATIVE INFINITIVE

To form the negative infinitive, place not before the to- or zero infinitive:
e.g. not to worry:

Examples

  • It's hard not to worry about exams.
  • He asked me not to be late.
  • I decided not to go to London.
  • Elephants ought not to marry mice.
  • You'd better not smile at the crocodile.
  • I'd rather not eat meat.