Don't .... and/or...
I have made up two sets of similar sentences below.
(1a) I don't eat breakfast, read short stories, and borrow books from the library.
(1b) I don't eat breakfast, read short stories, or borrow books from the library.
(2a) I usually don't put books, computers, and fans in my bedroom.
(2b) I usually don't put books, computers, or fans in my bedroom.
My non-native English speaking friends think "or" always works in negative statements like the "a" versions above. In their opinion, the "a" versions with "and" don't make much sense.
I agree that the "b" sentences are OK because they suggest that you don't do or have any one of those things mentioned. I am not sure if native English speakers use "and" in negative sentences similar to the a's above.
What is your opinion? Thank you very much for all your help and time.
Top answer
"or" would be usual in those sentences. "and" may be possible if the things are thought of as closely associated or happening at the same time. Personally I find the final commas offputting in some of the sentences.
- "or" would be usual in those sentences.
- "and" may be possible if the things are thought of as closely associated or happening at the same time.
- Personally I find the final commas offputting in some of the sentences.
- Opinions about this may vary.
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"or" would be usual in those sentences. "and" may be possible if the things are thought of as closely associated or happening at the same time. Personally I find the final commas offputting in some of the sentences. Opinions about this may vary.
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