In this week's episode of Everyday Grammar, we're going to talk about two common types of double negatives. A double negative is when you use two negative words in the same clause of a sentence.

Let's take a real-world example. In 2012, President Obama spoke at United Nations about the Iran nuclear issue.

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Reference

Double Negative Type 1:

Negative + negative = weak positive

Examples:

She is not incorrect. (She IS correct)

The plan is not without risk. (The plan HAS risk)

Time is not unlimited. (Time IS limited)

TIP: This type of negative is grammatically acceptable, but should be avoided. It is used when the speakers want to be indirect and avoid offending someone.

Double Negative Type 2:

Negative + verb + negative = strong negative

Examples:

I haven't seen nobody. (I haven't seen anybody)

I can't get no satisfaction. (I can't get any satisfaction)

Don't tell me nothing. (Don't tell me anything)

TIP: This type of double negative is sometimes used in informal spoken English. One should avoid using it in academic and professional situations—especially in TOEFL, IELTS, college or job application letters.

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Words in This Story

double negative – n. a grammatical construction in which two negative words are used in the same clause to express a single negation.

clause – n. a part of a sentence that has its own subject and verb

illogical – adj. not showing good judgment : not thinking about things in a reasonable or sensible way : not logical

taboo – n. not acceptable to do

William Shakespeare – n. English poet, playwright, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language.

propose – v. to suggest (something, such as a plan or theory) to a person or group of people to consider

inspire – v. having a particular cause or influence

informal – adj. relaxed in tone : not suited for serious or official speech and writing