〜ないことはない
Formation
Meaning
Used to express a partial affirmation by using a double negative. It suggests that while something might not be perfectly true, it's also not completely false or impossible.
Note
A double-negative construction that results in a hesitant or partial positive. It often implies that something is possible, but perhaps with some reservations or difficulty. 'Nai koto wa nai' is very similar to 'nai koto mo nai', with 'mo' adding a slight nuance of 'also' or 'even', making it feel slightly softer or more speculative.
Examples
納豆は食べられないことはないが、あまり好きではない。
It's not that I can't eat natto, but I don't really like it.
お酒は飲めないことはないですが、すぐ赤くなってしまいます。
It's not that I can't drink alcohol, but I turn red immediately.
この映画は面白くないことはないけれど、少し長すぎる。
It's not that this move isn't interesting, but it's a bit too long.
この靴は履きにくくないことはないが、デザインが気に入っている。
It's not that these shoes aren't difficult to wear, but I like the design.
静かではないことはないけれど、もっと静かな場所のほうがいい。
It's not that it isn't quiet, but a quieter place would be better.
不便ではないことはないが、生活には困らない。
It's not that it isn't inconvenient, but I don't have trouble living here.
彼が犯人ではないことはないという疑いを持っている。
I have a suspicion that it's not impossible that he is the culprit.
不可能ではないこともないが、非常に難しい。
It's not that it's impossible, but it's very difficult.