Understanding the Use of 'Doesn’t Make Any Sense' vs. 'Don’t Make Any Sense'

When it comes to English grammar, the correct usage of the verbs doesn't and don’t can often be a point of confusion. This article aims to clarify the appropriate use of these phrases when determining whether something makes sense or not. Whether you're writing a blog post, personal diary entry, or formal report, this knowledge can help ensure your sentences are clear and grammatically correct.

Why We Can't Use 'Don't Make Any Sense' Where 'Doesn't Make Any Sense' Is Needed

The phrase doesn’t make any sense is used in the context of a singular subject, typically for the third person singular form of the verb. Similarly, don’t make any sense is used for plural subjects. It is important to use the correct form depending on the subject of the sentence.

For example:

It doesn’t make any sense. This phrase refers to a single entity, such as a sentence or an idea, that is not logical or doesn't stand to reason.

Your comment doesn’t make any sense. This is used when referring to a single comment that is not clear or logical.

Your comments don’t make any sense. This is used when multiple comments are not logical or clear.

Using 'Doesn't Make Any Sense' vs. 'Don’t Make Any Sense'

The conjugation of the verb in the present tense follows a specific pattern based on the subject:

I don’t make any sense.

You don’t make any sense.

He/she/it doesn’t make any sense.

We don’t make any sense.

You (plural) don’t make any sense.

They don’t make any sense.

The use of doesn’t is reserved for third person singular subjects, while don’t is used for all other subjects, singular or plural.

For example:

He doesn’t like to ski.

She doesn’t enjoy dancing.

It doesn’t appeal to me to go to the movies or swim.

Do 'Don’t' and 'Doesn’t' Have the Same Meaning?

You may wonder if 'don’t' and 'doesn’t' mean the same thing. While they appear similar, there are subtle but important differences:

Doesn’t: This contraction is used with singular subjects, like 'he', 'she', or 'it'. For example:

She doesn’t know enough about car racing.

It doesn’t appeal to me to ski or go to the movies.

Don’t: This is used with all plural subjects and the second person singular (you). For example:

Their comments don’t make any sense.

You and they don’t understand it.

Practical Examples

Here are some practical examples to help reinforce the usage:

It doesn’t make any sense. This sentence refers to a single, illogical statement or idea.

Your comment doesn’t make any sense. This is used when you want to point out that one specific comment is confusing or illogical.

Your comments don’t make any sense. This is used when multiple comments or ideas are confusing or illogical.

He doesn’t make sense when he talks about car racing. This implies that his statements or explanations about car racing are unclear or illogical.

They don’t make sense when they talk about car racing. This suggests that their collective statements or explanations about car racing are unclear or illogical.

Remember, the choice between doesn’t make any sense and don’t make any sense is based on the subject of the sentence. Using the incorrect form can make your writing confusing and poorly constructed. Always ensure the subject agrees with the appropriate form of the verb to convey your message clearly.

Conclusion

Mastering the correct usage of doesn’t make any sense and don’t make any sense is essential for clear and effective communication in English. Whether you're writing for personal or professional purposes, adhering to these guidelines will help you convey your thoughts accurately and professionally.