How to say "Not" in Japanese

When translating "not" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 必ずしも and まんざらでもない. In Japanese, 必ずしも (かならずしも (kanarazushimo)) is typically associated with "not necessarily; not always (used with a negative predicate)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Always followed by a negative expression. 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!