Japanese grammar
What does ～なくはない mean? Japanese grammar N1
～なくはない means not that it isn't…; can't say it doesn't….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Vない形 (drop い) + くはない い形 くない → くなくはない |
| Romaji | nakuhanai |
| Meaning | not that it isn't…; can't say it doesn't… |
Forming it
| Verb | 分から + なくはない |
|---|---|
| i-adjective | 難しく + なくはない |
How to use it
A CAUTIOUS affirmation via double negation; leaves a possibility open.
- 「～なくはない」 = a double negative → a cautious affirmation: “it's not that it's not...”, i.e. partly true.
- Used when wanting to admit part of something without fully committing.
- Close to 「～ないものでもない」 (more formal) and 「～ないこともない」 (more colloquial).
Examples
彼の気持ちも分からなくはない。
It’s not that I don’t understand how he feels.
条件次第では、引き受けなくはない。
Depending on the terms, I wouldn’t necessarily refuse.
Keep in mind
- Double negation = a cautious affirmation.
- Not used when wanting a firm, definitive statement.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong必ず分からなくはない。
Well, it's not that I don't understand.
Correctまあ、分からなくはない。
This pattern is a CAUTIOUS affirmation, which contradicts 「必ず」.
-
Wrong分かるはない。
It's not that I don't understand.
Correct分からなくはない。
The structure needs the NEGATIVE form before adding 「はない」.
Exam tips
- 「なくはない」 = it's not entirely not... (a cautious affirmation, double negation).