Abstract
Although double negatives are often heard in Shakespeare's plays or during dramatic case presentations on morning rounds, double negatives in the same sentence are not needed in scientific writing. English grammar is unlike math: two negatives do not make a positive. The best scientific writing is clear, direct, and simple. Do not use two or more negatives in the same sentence or clause, because the two negatives do not cancel each other out but only add confusion to the text. “Do not use no gastric lavage for patients with non-toxic ingestions” is an obvious violation of the double negative rule, but other examples can be more subtle.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
