Double Negatives (e.g. I don’t know nothing)

In standard English, using two negative words in the same sentence usually creates a grammar error called a double negative. This happens when two negative forms are used together — making the sentence unclear or even giving the opposite meaning.

What is a double negative?

A double negative occurs when two negative words (like not, don’t, nothing, never, no one) are used in the same clause. In English, only one negative word is needed to express a negative meaning.

• ❌ I don’t know nothing about it. → ✅ I don’t know anything about it.
• ❌ She didn’t see no one. → ✅ She didn’t see anyone.
• ❌ We can’t find nothing to eat. → ✅ We can’t find anything to eat.

Why is it incorrect?

In English grammar, two negatives cancel each other out — so the sentence becomes confusing or even positive. For example, “I don’t know nothing” literally means “I know something” — which is likely not what the speaker intended.

What to use instead?

Use only one negative word in a sentence. If you use a verb with not or don’t, then follow it with a positive form like anything, anyone, or ever.

• I don’t need anything.
• She didn’t talk to anyone.
• We haven’t heard from anybody yet.