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A double negative is a construction occurring when two forms of grammatical negation are used in the same sentence. This is typically used to convey a different shade of meaning from a strictly positive sentence ("You're not unattractive" vs "You're attractive").
Double negatives aren't always incorrect. Read this essential list of things you must understand about double negatives before using them in your writing.
A double negative is usually created by combining the negative form of a verb (e.g., cannot, did not, have not) with a negative pronoun (e.g., nothing, nobody), a negative adverb (e.g., never, hardly), or a negative conjunction (e.g., neither/nor).
Double negatives and usage. In standard English, when we use negative words such as nobody, nowhere, never or nothing, we do not commonly use a negative verb: He had nothing interesting to tell us. Not: He hadn’t nothing interesting …. It was 10 am but there was nobody in the office. Not: … but there wasn’t nobody in the office.
A double negative means just that—two negative words. When these two negative words are used in the same sentence, they create the double negative. Double negatives can include the same negative term or different terms.
Double negatives are a common grammar mistake in which the two negative words cancel each other out. The meaning is negated twice, which technically returns the statement to its original positive form—and in the process, creates confusion about the intended meaning.
A double negative happens when two negative words are used in the same sentence. This often leads to confusion because it can make a sentence mean the opposite of what you intend. For example, saying “I don’t have no money” actually means you do have some money, according to strict grammar rules.
Double negatives are when two negative words are used to emphasize denial (e.g., I didn’t do nothing). They should be avoided in formal writing. In standard English, double negatives are considered “bad grammar.”
A double negative occurs when two negative words appear in the same sentence, often leading to confusion and misinterpretation of the intended meaning. In most cases, the use of double negatives is considered improper grammar and should be avoided, particularly in formal writing and speech.
A double negative is a grammatical construction that is generally not considered unacceptable, though it is often spoken in colloquial, informal or nonstandard English or for dramatic effect. Double negatives should never be used in formal situations or in business situations.