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Marianita123 Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

don´t have or haven´t got

Hi! I would lik to know which is the correct way: Haven´t got or don´t have. What is the difference between them?
Thanks
  

Top answer

marianita123 difference No difference. I've heard it said that Americans prefer 'don't have', and that 'haven't got' is more British, but everybody everywhere uses both forms. CJ

— CalifJim

  • marianita123 difference No difference.
  • I've heard it said that Americans prefer 'don't have', and that 'haven't got' is more British, but everybody everywhere uses both forms.
  • CJ
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4 Answers
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marianita123difference
No difference.

I've heard it said that Americans prefer 'don't have', and that 'haven't got' is more British, but everybody everywhere uses both forms.

CJ
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Have got is wrong when you are referring to an action. Respond to a question about your actions like this: 'Do you drink coffee every day?' -'No, I don't have a cup every day.' Remember, when you want to tell whether an action is a necessity or not -like an outer obligation use -don't have to -'I don't have to attend that business meeting.' versus when you feel obligated 'from within
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Some older speakers of british English consider 'don't have' as American, and 'haven't got as substandard. As a result you will hear, from such speakers:

I haven't any qualms about this.
I have no qualms about this.

There is a long running (and very funny) BBC radio comedy show, I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue
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