In German, double negatives are not only correct but also emphasize the negation in a sentence. Unlike in English, where double negatives can cancel each other out, in German, multiple negative elements reinforce the negative meaning.
- Double negatives strengthen the negation in a sentence.
- Both negative elements are required for correct grammar and emphasis.
- Common negative words used in double negatives include nicht, kein, nie, and nichts.
The negative effect
Which of the following are common negative words used in German double negatives?
Structure of Double Negatives
When two negative elements are used, one usually negates the verb, and the other negates a noun or adverbial component. For example:
- Ich sehe nichts; ich höre auch nichts. (I see nothing; I also hear nothing.)
- Er hat keinen Hunger und trinkt nie Kaffee. (He has no hunger and never drinks coffee.)
Typical pairs for double negatives
Which of the following are correct examples of German double negatives?
Examples
- Ich habe keine Zeit und will auch nicht gehen.
(I have no time and also don't want to go.)
keine + nicht = double negative
- Er sagt nie etwas und hört auch nichts.
(He never says anything and also hears nothing.)
nie + nichts = double negative
- Wir können hier nichts machen und dürfen auch nicht rausgehen.
(We can't do anything here and also aren't allowed to go out.)
nichts + nicht = double negative
Correct double negative?
Single vs. Double Negatives
| Aspect | Single Negative | Double Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Simple negation | Stronger/more emphatic negation |
| Structure | One negative element | Two negative elements |
| Example | Ich gehe nicht. | Ich gehe nicht und will auch nicht bleiben. |
| Effect | Cancels/denies action | Emphasizes/extends negation |
The effect of double negatives
Conclusion
Double negatives in German are a natural and emphatic way to express negation.
- They reinforce, rather than cancel, the negative meaning.
- Common negation words include nicht, kein, nie, and nichts.
- Understanding double negatives helps avoid confusion and improves fluency in German.