Emphatic 'do'
I do like that one.
Definition
We sometimes use 'do' as an auxiliary verb before the bare infinitive of a main verb in order to emphasise a feeling or expression.
Construction
We can use this structure in the present simple with 'do' or 'does':
Subject + 'do'/'does' + bare infinitive:
He does make a good bouillabaisse.
Or in the past simple with 'did':
Subject + 'did' + bare infinitive:
They did have a good time at the party.
And in the imperative with 'do'.
'do' + bare infinitive:`
Do take a seat.
Uses
| Uses | Examples | Notes |
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To make an expression stronger or to express certainty
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I do hope I pass this exam.
She does love her new house!
He did find it difficult to learn English.
I do believe I've seen him somewhere before.
I do think that if I eat another chocolate, I'll be sick.
She did feel that she couldn't work there any longer.
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In these sentences, we could replace 'do' with 'really' + the correct form/tense of the main verb:
I really hope...
She really loves...
He really found...
For even further emphasis, we could say:
I really do hope...
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To contradict |
A. I've made you a cup of tea because you don't like coffee. B. I do like coffee!
A. I notice you didn't say anything at the meeting. B. I did say something -maybe you weren't listening properly.
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In this situation, when speaking, we stress 'do', 'does' or 'did'. For example, I do like coffee! With most of the other situations, we can usually stress either 'do', 'does', 'did' or the main verb. |
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To show contrast |
I did put the key in my desk but now I can't find it.
They said they haven't received my letter but I did post it on time.
Anne did tell me about the meeting but I forgot!
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In these examples, 'do' shows the contrast between what was expected and what has happened.
Here, we are more likely to stress the main verb when we speak. If not, it sounds like a contradiction.
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To reproach someone or show dissatisfaction |
I do think you might do the cooking sometimes.
I did expect to find the dinner ready when I got home late.
They did think their children would be married by now!
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To make an imperative phrase more emphatic |
Do be quiet; I'm trying to work.
Do try to be there on time.
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In this situation, when speaking, we stress 'do'. For example, Do be quiet. |
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To make offers and invitations sound friendlier |
Do sit down.
Do ask if you need any help.
Do have lunch with us soon.
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In this situation, when speaking, we stress 'do'. For example, |
Notes
1. We can use emphatic 'do' to express certainty even when it is a lie:
I really did do my homework but the dog ate it.
2. We sometimes use contrast to point out the positive aspect of a negative outcome:
We lost the match but we did have a really good game.
3. Emphatic 'do' can be used to emphasise that parts of a fictional work are factual:
Example: From 'Ratcatcher' by James McGee
A fictional book that is based on historical events at the end of the 18th and beginning of the 19 century surrounding the development of torpedoes following Bonaparte's coup d'état. Much of the book is about a fictional Bow Street runner. In the 'Historical Note' there are some quotes emphasising the parts of this book that are fact:
Many of the individuals in the story did exist.
- ...Captain Johnstone was also a real character and did work with Fulton.
- ...a rumour did begin to circulate that Bonapartists had contacted Captain Johnstone...
- However, several of the minor events depicted in the novel did happen. British riflemen did shoot the Spanish general...
Extracts from 'Ratcatcher' by James McGee used with kind permission of Harper Collins and Pegasus Books.
Examples
I do think hope the party goes well!
Do come this way please.
We do think it is important for children to learn how to swim.
Do be quiet - I'm trying to watch this programme.
I really did see a mouse come and eat one, honest.
We don't have any apple tarts left but we do have these lovely apricot ones.
...so I said, yeah I do like going to the cinema I just don't want to go with you.
