double negative - Definition & Meaning

a grammatical construction in which two negative elements are used within the same sentence, often resulting in a positive meaninga grammatical construction in which two negative elements are used within the same sentence, often resulting in a positive meaning

A double negative is a linguistic construction in which two negative words or elements are used in the same clause or sentence, often resulting in a meaning that can be confusing or lead to ambiguity. In standard English, using a double negative typically produces a positive meaning, although this is not the case in all languages or dialects. For example, in the sentence "I do not want no cake," the two negatives "do not" and "no" combine to imply that the speaker does want cake, contrary to the intended meaning. In informal speech and some dialects, double negatives can be used for emphasis, but in formal writing and standard English, they are generally considered incorrect and should be avoided to ensure clarity. Understanding double negatives is important for effective communication and for recognizing variations in language use.A double negative is a linguistic construction in which two negative words or elements are used in the same clause or sentence, often resulting in a meaning that can be confusing or lead to ambiguity. In standard English, using a double negative typically produces a positive meaning, although this is not the case in all languages or dialects. For example, in the sentence "I do not want no cake," the two negatives "do not" and "no" combine to imply that the speaker does want cake, contrary to the intended meaning. In informal speech and some dialects, double negatives can be used for emphasis, but in formal writing and standard English, they are generally considered incorrect and should be avoided to ensure clarity. Understanding double negatives is important for effective communication and for recognizing variations in language use.

例句

In standard grammar, a double negative can create confusion, as it often results in a positive meaning.
在标准语法中，双重否定可能会造成混淆，因为它通常会导致肯定的意思。
The phrase "I don't know nothing about it" uses a double negative, which actually means "I know something about it."
“我对此一无所知”这句话使用了双重否定，实际上意思是“我对此有所了解”。
The sentence "We haven't seen no one" uses a double negative, implying that they have seen someone.
句子“我们没看到没人”使用了双重否定，暗示他们看到了某人。