2
  1. I am a good man, aren’t I?
  2. I am a good man, am I not?

The first sentence is often used. According to grammar books, the second sentence is also correct, but it is rarely used. Can native speakers please tell me when you use the second sentence?

Improve this question
2
  • 1
    You would only use the second if you were being consciously formal and old-fashioned.
    – Kate Bunting
    Aug 11, 2021 at 8:00
  • If you use aren't I you would probably use: I'm a good man, with the contraction.
    – Lambie
    Jun 23, 2022 at 20:00

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
0

I am a good man, aren’t I?

is a normal usage. It's just looking for confirmation.

I am a good man, am I not?

is more direct, asking for confirmation, especially in a case where it might not be believed.

Undoing a contraction often adds emphasis to a phrase.

Improve this answer

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .