Meaning
This pattern indicates that while something is possible or somewhat true, it's not entirely or enthusiastically so. It suggests a weak affirmation leaning toward the negative—something exists but to a minimal degree. The speaker acknowledges a possibility while implying hesitation or reluctance about it.
Formation
| Part of speech | Formation |
|---|---|
| 動詞(ない形) | なくはない/なくもない |
| い形容詞(…い) | なくはない/なくもない |
| な形容詞 | で + なくはない/なくもない |
| 名詞 | がは + なくはない/なくもない |
Examples
-
ピーマンは食べられなくはないんですが、あまり好きではありません。
I'm not saying I can't eat green peppers, but I don't really like them. -
東京での一人暮らしの生活は寂しくなくはないけど、りっぱな大人になるために、ここで簡単に諦めるわけにはいかないんだ。
Living alone in Tokyo isn't without its loneliness, but I can't give up easily here in order to become a respectable adult. -
結婚するつもりはなくもないが、とりあえず安定した仕事を探してからでないと無理だろう。
I'm not completely opposed to getting married, but first I need to find a stable job to make it possible.
Summary
- Used with negative forms to express weak affirmation: 'it's not that I can't/don't/am not'
- Conveys reluctant agreement or acknowledgment while leaning negative in tone
- When attached to nouns expressing intentions or feelings, it means 'not without that sentiment, but rarely'