Using Not only but also in a Sentence

Effective communication involves choosing the right words and understanding how to structure them for maximum impact. “Not only but also” is a potent construction that allows you to emphasize and connect ideas in a parallel structure.

In this article, we’ll explore the meaning, usage, rules, and examples of using “not only but also” in a sentence.

Not only but also Meaning

“Not only but also” is a complex conjunction that parallels two clauses or phrases. It emphasizes that the second element is equally significant as the first one. Let’s explore its meaning through various examples:

Examples:

1. She not only finished the project on time but also exceeded expectations.

This example emphasizes both completing the project on time and surpassing expectations.

2. Not only did they visit the museum, but they also attended the workshop.

The parallel structure highlights both visiting the museum and participating in the workshop.

3. He can speak not only English but also French fluently.

This construction emphasizes proficiency in both English and French languages.

4. The team not only won the championship but also set a new record.

Winning the championship and setting a new record are both highlighted as significant achievements.

When to Use Not only but also

Use “not only but also” when you want to emphasize two equally important or noteworthy elements. It is employed to convey that both components contribute significantly to the overall context.

What is the Rule of Not only but also

When using “not only but also,” maintain parallelism in the structure. Ensure that both elements being compared are grammatically and logically parallel. Importantly, you do not need a comma between “not only” and “but also” because they form a correlative pair.

Not only but also Example Sentences

1. She not only enjoys playing the piano but also excels in composing music.
2. Not only did the restaurant serve delicious food, but it also provided excellent service.
3. He not only managed the project efficiently but also motivated the team effectively.
4. The conference covered not only current trends in technology but also future innovations.
5. They not only solved the problem swiftly but also implemented preventive measures.
6. The book not only captivates readers with its plot but also explores profound themes.
7. Not only did the company meet its quarterly targets, but it also exceeded them.
8. She not only juggles a demanding job but also volunteers at the local community center.
9. The movie not only entertains audiences but also leaves them with a thought-provoking message.
10. Not only is he a skilled engineer, but he also possesses excellent leadership qualities.

What Can I Use Instead of Not only but also?

You can use alternatives like “as well as,” “similarly,” “likewise,” and “in addition to” “and” to convey a similar meaning. Here are examples:

Examples:

1. She enjoys playing the piano, as well as excelling in composing music. (She not only enjoys playing the piano but also excels in composing music).
2. The restaurant served delicious food, similarly providing excellent service. (Not only did the restaurant serve delicious food, but it also provided excellent service).
3. He managed the project efficiently, likewise motivating the team effectively. (He not only managed the project efficiently but also motivated the team effectively).
4. The conference covered current trends in technology, in addition to future innovations. (The conference covered not only current trends in technology but also future innovations).
5. They solved the problem swiftly and implemented preventive measures. (They not only solved the problem swiftly but also implemented preventive measures).

Can We Use Not only but also in a Compound Sentence?

Yes, “not only but also” can be used in a compound sentence. Here are examples:

Examples:

1. She not only finished the report but also presented it to the team.
2. Not only did they complete the project, but they also submitted it ahead of schedule.

What is the Difference Between Both and Not only but also?

“Both” is a simpler conjunction to introduce two items or ideas without emphasizing their equality. On the other hand, “not only but also” emphasizes the equality or significance of two elements. Let’s compare:

Examples:

1. Both the cat and the dog are pets.

This sentence simply states that both the cat and the dog are pets.

2. Not only is she a talented singer, but she also plays multiple instruments.

This construction emphasizes that being a talented singer and playing multiple instruments are noteworthy qualities.

How Do You Use Not only but also in Negative Sentences?

Maintain the parallel structure when using “not only but also” in negative sentences. Here are examples:

Examples:

1. She not only dislikes horror movies but also avoids them altogether.
2. Not only did they not attend the meeting, but they also failed to inform anyone.

In both examples, the negative aspect is emphasized by “not only but also.”

“Not only but also” is a powerful tool in constructing sentences highlighting the equality or significance of two elements. By maintaining parallelism and utilizing this conjunction strategically, you can enhance the impact of your expressions and convey the importance of dual components in your communication.