ないでもない (naidemonai)

Meaning & usage

ないでもない expresses reluctant or partial affirmation, meaning it is not that one would not do something or that something is impossible. It attaches to the nai-form of a verb, as in 行かないでもない or 食べないでもない. It often pairs with が or けど to add a reservation or contrasting condition, and it sounds softening and somewhat formal.

Example sentences 8

1. 彼かれの言いい分ぶんも分わからないでもないが、方法ほうほうがひどい。

   I can somewhat see his point, but his approach is terrible.

2. 引っ越しの話、考えないでもないけど、今すぐは無理。

   I'm not saying I won't consider moving, but it's impossible right now.

3. 行かないでもないが、少し遠い。

   It's not that I wouldn't go, but it's a bit far.

4. 食べないでもないけど、あまり好きじゃない。

   It's not that I won't eat it, but I don't really like it.

5. 彼も手伝わないでもないらしい。

   It's not that he won't help, apparently.

6. 買わないでもないけど、少し高い気がする。

   It's not that I wouldn't buy it, but it feels a bit expensive.

7. その映画は見ないでもないかな。

   I wouldn't mind watching that movie.

8. 飲まないでもないけど、今日はやめておく。

   It's not that I wouldn't drink, but I'll skip it today.