ないものでもないNot entirely impossible
ないものでもない presents an action or outcome as possible under the right conditions. It is a cautious, limited positive: the speaker is opening the door to a possibility, not promising that it will happen.
A possibility with conditions attached
The usual pattern is: first state or imply what would make something feasible, then use ないものでもない to give a guarded positive judgment. Common enabling conditions include having more time, money, staff, cooperation, or willingness to compromise.
条件を少し緩和すれば、今月中に実施できないものでもない。
If we relax the conditions a little, carrying it out by the end of this month may not be impossible.
AnalyzeThe speaker judges the plan feasible only if the conditions are relaxed.
What the speaker is—and is not—saying
This construction is weaker than a direct statement that something can be done. Depending on context, it may suggest reluctant willingness, cautious optimism, or a conclusion reached after considering practical obstacles. It does not by itself commit the speaker to acting or guarantee success.
Weighing practical options
十分な人手が確保できるなら、計画を前倒しできないものでもない。
If we can secure enough staff, moving the plan forward is not entirely out of the question.
Analyze妥協点が見つかるなら、先方の条件も受け入れられないものでもない。
If we can find a point of compromise, we might be able to accept their conditions.
AnalyzeThis expresses measured willingness rather than enthusiastic agreement.
More examples
専門家の協力が得られれば、この資料だけでも原因を特定できないものでもない。
If we can get help from a specialist, identifying the cause from these materials alone may not be impossible.
Analyze時間をかけて説明すれば、委員会の理解を得られないものでもない。
If we take the time to explain it, gaining the committee's understanding may not be impossible.
Analyze今すぐは無理だが、日程を組み直せば対応できないものでもない。
It is impossible right now, but if we rearrange the schedule, we may be able to accommodate it.
Analyze品質基準を保てるなら、国内生産に切り替えられないものでもない。
If the quality standards can be maintained, switching to domestic production is not entirely out of the question.
Analyze彼が直接謝るというなら、もう一度話を聞かないものでもない。
If he is willing to apologize in person, I might be prepared to hear him out once more.
AnalyzeThe speaker leaves open a limited willingness to listen, conditional on an apology.
多少費用がかかっても、安全性が確保できるなら採用できないものでもない。
Even if it costs somewhat more, adopting it may be possible if safety can be ensured.
Analyze