grammar · formal
Not only + clause, but also + clause
Used to link two points and emphasize that the second adds to the first; elements joined must be parallel.
Examples
“Not only did the city improve public transport, but it also reduced traffic congestion.”
“Not only are online resources convenient, but they can also be cheaper.”
“The course is not only informative but also engaging.”
Band 8 sentence
“Not only did the government increase funding for research, but it also implemented measures to ensure long-term accountability.”
Collocations
- Not only + clause, but also + clause
- Not only + NP but also + NP
Common mistakes
Not only he is clever, but also he is hardworking.→Not only is he clever, but he is also hardworking.
Not only the students but also teaches English.→Not only the students but also the teachers teach English.
Say it for a higher band
5Both...and...→6Not only... but also...→7+Not only + clause, but also + clause
Synonyms
Both...and...
Easily confused
Both...and...
“Both the students and the teachers supported the policy.”
Not only... but also... (no inversion)
“The new policy is not only expensive but also ineffective.”
Related words
Learn this word with the rest of its set, and get reminded at the right time.
In Opening & closing ideas
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