〜ないものでもない

〜ないものでもない expresses not entirely impossible — communicating the speaker's degree of certainty, judgment, or attitude about a statement. Modal expressions in Japanese range from strong conviction to vague possibility, and choosing the right one conveys important nuance about how sure you are.

This is a highly advanced pattern found mainly in literary works, formal speeches, legal documents, and academic writing. It is rarely used in casual conversation.

When to Use#

• When something is technically possible but unlikely or difficult
• When reluctantly admitting a slim possibility

When NOT to Use#

• In casual conversation — this sounds literary or stiff; use a simpler expression

Example Sentences#

• 適切な仲介があれば、和解できないものでもありません。 — With proper mediation, reconciliation is not impossible.
• 資金調達ができれば、海外展開もないものでもありません。 — If we secure funding, international expansion is not entirely out of the question.
• 両者が譲歩すれば、合意に達しないものでもないでしょう。 — If both parties make concessions, agreement is not impossible.

Practice#

Try reading these sentences aloud, then check the translation and vocabulary:

Common Mistakes#

1. Using 〜ないものでもない in casual conversation — This pattern sounds overly formal or literary in casual speech. Reserve it for formal writing, presentations, or situations that call for elevated language.
2. Direct translation from English — The concept expressed by 〜ないものでもない may not map one-to-one with its English translation. Focus on understanding the Japanese usage through example sentences rather than relying on the English gloss.