How to say "Not" in Japanese

When translating "not" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between いっさい and まんざらでもない. In Japanese, いっさい (いっさい (issai)) is typically associated with "(not) at all, absolutely (not), entirely (without)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used with negative verbs to emphasize a complete lack or absence of something. Stronger than 全然. On the other hand, まんざらでもない (まんざらでもない (manzara demo nai)) maps to "not bad, not entirely displeased, rather good (often with a hint of feigned indifference)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A phrase used to express that something is actually quite good or pleasing, despite perhaps outwardly acting as if one is indifferent or critical. It conveys a subtle sense of satisfaction or quiet approval.. A literal translation of "not" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!