A1adverb1K

Never

UK /["/ˈnevə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈnevər/"]/

Definition

not at any time; not on any occasion

In simple words: Not ever; at no time.

Examples

  • I never eat breakfast in the morning.
  • She never goes to bed before 10 PM.
  • We will never forget this amazing trip.
  • He never tells lies; he's always honest.
  • They never play outside when it rains.

Usage notes

Use 'never' to describe things that do not happen at all. It is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts but avoid using it in a positive statement.

Grammar pattern

never + verb

Memory hint

Think of a 'never-ending story' that doesn’t have a conclusion.

Collocations

  • never again
  • never before
  • never going to

Synonyms

  • not ever
  • at no time
  • on no occasion

Antonyms

  • always
  • forever

Common mistakes

  • Using 'never' with positive verbs (e.g., 'I never eat breakfast' is correct, 'I never eat' is incorrect if breakfast is intended).
  • Confusing 'never' with 'ever' in questions.
  • Using 'never' instead of 'not' in negation.