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JLPT N3 Neutral

〜nai koto wa nai

Express the idea that 'it's not that it's impossible' or 'it's not that it cannot be done'.

"It's not impossible". (Near-duplicate of n2-102 - same construction, taught at both N2 and N3.)

Formation

Explanation

The ～ないことはない grammar point is used to express that something is not impossible, or not that it cannot be done. It creates a softer, more indirect way of saying that something is possible or can be done, but not necessarily easy or preferred.

Example sentences

  • It's not that I can't solve this problem, but it seems like it will take time.

    Kono mondai wo tokenai koto wa nai ga, jikan ga kakari sou da.

  • It's not that I can't meet him, but I don't really want to talk.

    Kare ni awanai koto wa nai kedo, amari hanashitakunai.

  • It's not that I cannot watch this movie, but I think other movies are more interesting.

    Kono eiga wo minai koto wa nai keredo, hoka no eiga ga motto omoshiroi to omou.

  • It's not that I can't read that book, but it's long, so be careful.

    Sono hon wo yomanai koto wa nai ga, nagai node ki wo tsukete kudasai.

Not Impossible (Double-Negative Hedge)