Let's See If We Can't?

[Wispy68]

Why do people say, 'Let's see if we can't sort this out', (as opposed to, 'Let's see if we can...?') It really gets on my nerves!

[kempie]

I would suggest that 'Let's see if we can... ' is the more pessimistic form, since it implies that there is not a ready solution to the query (i.e. you have to work hard to find an answer); whereas 'can't' suggests you need to try very hard not to find an answer!

[ah9815]

Could be a nothern thing - like some from Sheffield. Now you mention it, it is pretty annoying.

[CharlieP1973]

It's not as bad as the Americans saying "I could care less" rather than "I couldn't care less" - that REALLY gets on my nerves...

[landie]

Possibly shortened from

Let's see if we (really) can't sort this out.

As if there were a state of conflict and it was worth further perseverance in seeking an effectual outcome.