Which one is the correct way to say 'do not forget': 'n'oublie pas' or 'ne pas oublier' ?

Shabbir A.A0Kwiziq community member

Which one is the correct way to say 'do not forget': 'n'oublie pas' or 'ne pas oublier' ?

Somtimes I have seen imperative sentences with ne+pas+infinitive but I dont know the rule behind..
Asked 6 years ago
CécileNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer

Hi Shabbir,

The difference is who it is adressed to -you use ne pas + infinitive when it is aimed at everyone, as a general request/caution. e.g.

Ne pas se pencher par la fenêtre (Don't lean out of the window)

Ne pas fumer (No smoking)

If you say "n'oublie pas d'emporter ton passport !" you are reminding the person you are talking to only. In contrast to the following general caution-

Ne pas oublier son passeport est important si on va l'étranger.

 

Hope this helps!

 

 

Shabbir A.A0Kwiziq community member
Great! its clear, thanks.
Shabbir A. asked:

Which one is the correct way to say 'do not forget': 'n'oublie pas' or 'ne pas oublier' ?

Somtimes I have seen imperative sentences with ne+pas+infinitive but I dont know the rule behind..

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