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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')
Message: To avoid using a double negative, consider moving 'not' inside of the infinitive construction.
Category: Grammar (ID: GRAMMAR)
Link: https://languagetool.org/insights/post/double-negatives/
Incorrect sentences
that this rule can detect:
  • You can't afford not to believe me.
    Correction suggestion: to not believe
  • I'm not saying not to be concerned.
    Correction suggestion: to not be
Pattern: Show XML · Show in Rule Editor
Check the following text against just this rule:

ID: DOUBLE_NEGATIVE [14]
Version: 6.5-SNAPSHOT (2024-09-26 16:45:37 +0000)