correlative conjunction · formal

Not only ... but also

speakingtask2

used to link two related ideas and emphasize that the second one is additionally true

Examples

Not only did the programme reduce crime, but it also improved neighbourhood relations.

She is not only smart but also hardworking.

Not only will this policy cut emissions, but it will also create green jobs.

Band 8 sentence

Not only does renewable energy reduce carbon emissions, but it also stimulates technological innovation and job creation.

Collocations

  • not only + auxiliary + subject + main verb, but also + clause
  • not only + noun + but also + noun

Word family

not only conjunction

Common mistakes

Not only she likes football but also basketball.Not only does she like football, but she also likes basketball.

She not only likes football also basketball.She not only likes football but also likes basketball.

Say it for a higher band

5and6both ... and ...7+Not only ... but also

Synonyms

both ... and ...

Easily confused

both ... and ...

Both the teacher and the students agreed on the new timetable.

Related words

Learn this word with the rest of its set, and get reminded at the right time.

In Emphasis & conclusion

Learn it with its set