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Rule "Double negative (e.g., 'not... nothing' instead of 'not... anything')"

This is one of many errors that LanguageTool can detect. Visit the LanguageTool homepage to use it online or download it for free.

Description: Double negative (e.g., 'not... nothing' instead of 'not... anything')
By default, this rule is not active in LanguageTool
Message: This phrase contains a double negative, or a comma may be missing.
Category: Grammar (ID: GRAMMAR)
Incorrect sentences
that this rule can detect:
  • I didn't see nothing.
  • ... but there wasn’t nobody in the office.
Correct sentences
for comparison:
  • I didn’t see anything.
  • I couldn’t say no to Tom.
  • I couldn’t accept no for an answer.
  • I haven't said no yet.
  • I'm not taking no for an answer.
  • Tom didn't like not having enough money.
  • I can't believe nobody came to your party.
  • She did not mind not being allowed to cook.
Pattern: Show XML · Show in Rule Editor
Check the following text against just this rule:

ID: DOUBLE_NEGATIVE [13]
Version: 6.5-SNAPSHOT (2024-04-26 22:33:08 +0200)