Double negative

A double negative occurs when two forms of negation are used in the same sentence. In some languages a double negative resolves to a negative, while in others it resolves to a positive. These are strictly grammatical rules and have nothing to do with mathematics. They are used in some languages and considered erroneous in others. In literature, denying a negation is known as the trope of litotes.

Related Topics:
Negation - Sentence - Mathematics - Language - Litotes

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A famous linguist once made the further observation that it was unknown for a double positive ever to resolve to a negative. A skeptical voice came from the back of the lecture hall: "Yeah, right". This joke is due to Prof. Sidney Morgenbesser of Columbia University. In Bulgarian the expression "??-??" ("Yes-yes") is used to show disagreement with what has been said.

Related Topics:
Sidney Morgenbesser - Columbia University - Bulgarian

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