ないでもない
JLPT Level: N1
Meanings
kind of
might
slightly
it’s not (impossible) that
somewhat
in some respects
Usage
Vないでもない
(N/Adj) + ないでもない?
Explanation
ないでもない expresses a mild or tentative possibility. It softens a negative statement, implying that something is not entirely impossible or that there is some likelihood, but it is not strong certainty. It’s often used to hedge opinions or to suggest a nuance like “it’s not that X won’t happen, but….” The speaker is acknowledging a fringe possibility or a glimmer of hope, without committing to it strongly. Typical contexts include discussing plans, possibilities, or evaluations where the outcome is uncertain or borderline.
彼が来ないでもない。
かれがこないでもない。
It's not that he won't come; he might come.
雨が降らないでもない。
あめがふらないでもない。
It's not that it won't rain; it may rain.
この案が成功しないでもない。
このあんがせいこうしないでもない。
This plan might succeed.