なくはないNot entirely untrue; not impossible
なくはない gives a restrained positive answer by denying a negative: something is possible, understandable, or true to some degree, but the speaker is not giving an enthusiastic or unqualified yes.
A qualified yes
The inner negative is denied by the final negative, producing a weak positive. The speaker accepts that something is possible or has some truth, while leaving room for a difficulty, limit, or disagreement.
彼の気持ちは分からなくはないが、あの言い方には賛成できない。
I can understand how he feels to some extent, but I cannot agree with the way he said it.
AnalyzeThe speaker acknowledges some understanding without saying that the other person was right.
Possibility with a catch
With possibility expressions, the pattern often means that something can be done, but only under limited conditions or with some inconvenience.
How strong is the answer?
Swipe sideways to compare every column.
| Expression | Typical force |
|---|---|
| 分かる | A direct assertion: “I understand.” |
| 分からなくはない | A limited acknowledgment: “I can understand to some extent.” |
| 分からない | A negative assertion: “I do not understand.” |
With an adjective
この仕事は楽しくなくはないが、かなり疲れる。
This job is somewhat enjoyable, but it is quite tiring.
AnalyzeLiterally: It is not that this job is not enjoyable, but it is quite tiring.
The speaker admits that the job has an enjoyable side, but the wording is much less positive than a direct statement that it is enjoyable.
More examples
駅から歩けなくはないけど、荷物が多いならバスがいい。
You could walk from the station, but if you have a lot of luggage, the bus would be better.
Analyze予算を少し増やせば、この計画も実現できなくはない。
If we increase the budget a little, this plan may be feasible.
Analyze今から急げば間に合わなくはないが、保証はできない。
If you hurry now, you might make it in time, but I cannot guarantee it.
Analyzeその説明で納得できなくはないが、まだ疑問が残る。
I can accept that explanation to some extent, but I still have questions.
Analyzeこの映画は楽しくなくはないが、もう一度見たいとは思わない。
The movie is somewhat enjoyable, but I do not think I want to see it again.
Analyze彼の判断も理解できなくはないけれど、別の方法があったはずだ。
I can understand his decision to some degree, but there should have been another way.
Analyze