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I noticed multiple times, when writing in Microsoft Word that the program suggests a correction, from either form to the other.

I can't seem to follow the logic.

When is it better to say did not, and when is it better to say didn't?

Feel free to add or suggest relevant tags, as I am unfamiliar with the word for this subject in English.

EDIT: enter image description here

above: Word tries to tell me what to do

Gulzar
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1 Answers1

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You can see in this screenshot (from my computer) that Microsoft Word lists contractions in its grammar settings under "Style":

enter image description here

This is because using contractions in formal writing is generally frowned upon, unless they are used for a very specific purpose (e.g. quoting someone). The reason why Microsoft Word may suggest correcting contractions is simply to make your writing more formal.

In terms of when you should use did not as opposed to didn't, I think it depends on the situation, and on your relationship with the intended audience. If you're writing a dissertation or a report to your boss, maybe use did not; if you're writing a text or email to your friend, I'm sure didn't would be just fine.

Kman3
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  • I would take that answer, if there weren't times where it suggested the opposite. I will wait until the next time it does that and upload that as well. – Gulzar Jun 08 '20 at 15:10
  • Please see an edit OP made to his post. It seems that contractions in this particular case are not related to formal/informal style as there is contraction which is not underlined. – ambitious_ph1lologist Jun 08 '20 at 15:24
  • However, in general I agree with your statement about using contractions in formal/informal styles, and OP asked “when is it better...” Answer seems legit. – ambitious_ph1lologist Jun 08 '20 at 15:31
  • @Gulzar You'll have to explain where you see contradictions. I think I made the distinction between formal and informal writing quite clear. – Kman3 Jun 08 '20 at 16:27
  • @ambitious_ph1lologist Thanks for the heads up. I don't know how I'm going to be able to edit my answer. Maybe Word detects "weren't" and not "didn't" but I'm not sure. I'm not a Word expert. I think however, regardless of the particular contraction, the logic in my answer still applies. – Kman3 Jun 08 '20 at 16:30