GRAMMAR DETAIL
〜ないことはない
Acknowledges that something is possible while implying a condition or burden.
Examples
少し重いが一人で運べないことはない。
It is a little heavy, but I can carry it alone if necessary.
Words used
少し工夫すれば、この仕事は一日で終えられないことはない。
With a little ingenuity, it is not impossible to finish this job in one day.
Words used
時間はかかるが、今日中にできないことはない。
It will take time, but it is not impossible to finish it today.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure:
ことはないafter a negative form qualifies that negation, making a restrained affirmation that admits possibility while leaving conditions or burden implied. - Basic usage:
少し重いが一人で運べないことはない。concedes that carrying it alone is possible despite its weight.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Acknowledging possibility versus enthusiastic agreement
手伝えないことはないcautiously admits being able to help. It differs from the positive willingness in喜んで手伝う, so replacing the double negative with an emphatic yes changes the speaker's stance.