Usage of do in some unusual situations

Asked Aug 15 '16 at 14:21

Active Aug 15 '16 at 14:30

Viewed 32 times

It surprises me when I hear someone using "do" in situations where I think it is unnecessary, as in these two examples.

I do need help.

I do have the strings.

Are these correct? Does this 'do' make any difference to the sentences I would expect to see here?

I need help.

I have the strings.

edited Aug 15 '16 at 14:30

Edwin Ashworth

asked Aug 15 '16 at 14:21

user15855

See John Lawler's answer here. – Edwin Ashworth Aug 15 '16 at 14:26
Welcome. I would invite you to visit our sister site for English Language Learners, in case you are not aware of it. – choster Aug 15 '16 at 14:30
The "do" just adds emphasis - either sentence is correct but the first versions have more emphasis and can be used to (at least try to) overcome a simply stated denial of the assertion (from another speaker). Do any of these give you the answer you're looking for? – WBT Aug 15 '16 at 15:44

0 Answers0