# haven't

CEFR A1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/havent
Updated: 2026-05-03

## Definition

the short way to say 'have not'. You use it to say that you do not possess something or that an action has not happened yet.

For teachers: the contracted form of 'have not'. Functions as an auxiliary verb in the present perfect tense or as a main verb indicating possession in certain dialects.

## Examples

- I haven't seen that movie yet.
- We haven't finished the report because the data arrived late this morning.
- While some critics argue the project is a failure, the developers haven't yet released the final performance metrics that would prove otherwise.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I haven't no money." but "I haven't any money." — Avoid using 'haven't' with other negative words like 'no' or 'nothing', as this creates a double negative.

## Usage notes

- Used in speech and informal writing; the full form 'have not' is preferred in formal academic or professional contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.