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Don't do that

🇬🇧 UK //dəʊnt duː ðæt// 🇺🇸 US //doʊnt du ðæt//

Meaning of Don't do that

A command or request telling someone to refrain from an action.

In simple words: A phrase used to tell someone to stop doing something.

Don't do that in a sentence

• When you see the dog acting aggressively, just say, 'Don't do that!'
• I noticed him touching the hot stove and immediately shouted, 'Don't do that!'
• 'Don't do that' was the first thing I said when she started playing with fire.
• When he tried to run in the street, I yelled, 'Don't do that!'
• At the party, I told my friend, 'Don't do that; you're embarrassing yourself!'

How to use Don't do that

Used in everyday conversation to express disapproval or warning. Typically informal and can vary in intensity based on tone.

Grammar pattern

standalone expression

Memory hint

Imagine a hand stopping you - it sounds like a direct stop signal.

Related words

Collocations with Don't do that

• Don't do that again
• Don't do that here
• Don't do that in public

Synonyms for Don't do that

• Stop that
• Cease that
• Refrain from doing that

Common mistakes with Don't do that

• Learners may use it too formally instead of in casual situations.
• Often confused with 'Please don't do that', which is more polite.
• Some might incorrectly say 'Don't do it' when referring to a specific action.

Frequently asked questions about "Don't do that"

What does "Don't do that" mean?

A phrase used to tell someone to stop doing something.

What is the definition of "Don't do that"?

A command or request telling someone to refrain from an action.

How do you use "Don't do that" in a sentence?

When you see the dog acting aggressively, just say, 'Don't do that!'

Can you give another example of "Don't do that"?

I noticed him touching the hot stove and immediately shouted, 'Don't do that!'

What are synonyms for "Don't do that"?

Common alternatives include Stop that, Cease that, Refrain from doing that.

What words go with "Don't do that"?

It commonly pairs with Don't do that again, Don't do that here, Don't do that in public.

What are common mistakes when using "Don't do that"?

Learners may use it too formally instead of in casual situations. Often confused with 'Please don't do that', which is more polite. Some might incorrectly say 'Don't do it' when referring to a specific action.

How do you pronounce "Don't do that"?

US: //doʊnt du ðæt//, UK: //dəʊnt duː ðæt//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use "Don't do that"?

Used in everyday conversation to express disapproval or warning. Typically informal and can vary in intensity based on tone.