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Guest Posted 21 years ago
Grammar

"never"

My husband and I were recently discussing the correct usage of the word "never". For example, if one were to say, "I never bought that juice." Is this correct or is it only correct to say , " I didn't but that juice". ?

Thanks
  

Top answer

I assume that you are saying "I never bought that juice" as a substitute for "I didn't buy that juice", not as a substitute for "I never used to buy that juice". "I never bought that juice" is simply a very informal way of saying "I didn't buy that juice" when you want to deflect guilt or punishment pre-emptively or to deny responsibility. It's somewhat confrontational, in my opinion.

— CalifJim

  • I assume that you are saying "I never bought that juice" as a substitute for "I didn't buy that juice", not as a substitute for "I never used to buy that juice".
  • "I never bought that juice" is simply a very informal way of saying "I didn't buy that juice" when you want to deflect guilt or punishment pre-emptively or to deny responsibility.
  • It's somewhat confrontational, in my opinion.
  • " CJ
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4 Answers
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I assume that you are saying "I never bought that juice" as a substitute for "I didn't buy that juice", not as a substitute for "I never used to buy that juice".

"I never bought that juice" is simply a very informal way of saying "I didn't buy that juice" when you want to deflect guilt or punishment pre-emptively or to deny responsibility. It's somewhat confrontational, in my opinion.
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I don't see it as informal at all, Jim. I think it simply reflects a different meaning of 'never'. Here is that meaning from AHD;

2. Not at all; in no way; absolutely not:

It is also used in some idioms with a meaning that differs from its time connotations, this also from AHD.

IDIOM: never mind 1. Don't bother: I was hoping for some help, but never mind, I'll do it
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I would appreciate it if you would stop addressing me and confine yourself to answering the posted questions as best you can with your limited knowledge of the subject. I am really at the end of my rope with you, and have no desire to hear any more of your opinions.
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That's not an option, Jim. If you state something that I believe is mistaken, I'll lay out the facts and the chips will fall where they may. I'd expect no less from you.


>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Sir, please take a look at that conversation:
MAVERICK88:---------
Is it grammatical to say
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