~なくはない

〜naku wa nai

JLPT N1 Neutral Chapter 144: Not impossible, not unheard of, 3 of 11

Formation

Verb-ないform + なくはない, い-Adjective-い + くはない, な-Adjective + ではなくはない, Noun + ではなくはない

Expresses the idea 'it's not that it's impossible' or 'it's not that I can't'.

When to use

"It's not that it's impossible" - a hedged, soft admission.

Explanation

The ~なくはない grammar point implies that while something may not be your first choice or not guaranteed, it's not outright impossible. Translates to 'It's not that it's impossible,' 'It's not that I don't/can't ~.'

Example sentences

Not Impossible (Double-Negative Hedge)