Usage of “not only... but also”.

“Not only... but also” is a correlative conjunction used to emphasize various elements in a statement. This conjunction plays a very important role in highlighting similarities and differences, adding emphasis, and creating a parallel structure, thus giving clarity in communication. Let’s dive in to understand the usage of this conjunction and master it’s application.

How to use “not only... but also” in a single sentence.

Example: She is not only beautiful but also intelligent.

“Not only…but also” in a parallel structure.

Example: She not only sings beautifully but also plays multiple instruments.

“Not only…but also” comparisons.

While comparing two things, we emphasise their similarities or differences.

Example: This restaurant not only serves delicious food but also offers excellent customer service.

“Not only…but also” for emphasis.

“Not only... but also” can be used to emphasise a point by highlighting multiple aspects.

Example: Her speech not only inspired the audience but also moved them to take action.

Example: The film not only entertained viewers but also left a lasting impact on their emotions.

Tips to remember while using “not only... but also”.

1.“Not only... but also” can be used in the middle and end of the sentence.

Example: I have taught English not only in Bangaluru but also in Mumbai.

2. Use it to talk about two adjectives, two verbs, or two nouns in both clauses.

Example: Reha is not only beautiful (adjective) but also a singer (noun). (Wrong sentence)

In the above sentence, we have an adjective in one part and a noun in the other part. We can either talk about two adjectives or two nouns in a sentence, so the above sentence is wrong.

Correct sentence: Reha is not only beautiful (adjective) but also smart (adjective).

Or

Correct sentence: Rhea is not only a good cook (noun) but also a good singer (noun).

Example: Sara ate not only the pasta but also the juice. (Here we have used the verb ate in the first clause, but there is no verb in the second clause, so the sentence is wrong.)

Correct sentence: Sara ate not only the pasta but also drank the juice.

3. “Not only... but also” can be used at the start and end of a sentence.

When we start a sentence with “not only,” we have to use an auxiliary verb after it.

Example: Not only does (auxiliary verb) he play football, but he also loves to play cricket. (Present)

Example: Not only did (auxiliary verb) he miss the train, but he also lost his phone. (Past)

Example Not only will (auxiliary verb) you learn the technique to speak fluent English, but you will also learn how to speak politely. (future)

Conclusion

By mastering this correlative conjunction, one can upgrade their language proficiency and convey the intended message clearly and without hindrance. By practicing more on this conjunction, learners can understand its usage and construct parallel structures while maintaining grammatical accuracy.

Below, we have given an exercise for you to practice and understand the topic clearly.

1. Identify the correct usage of “not only... but also”

Which of the following sentences demonstrates the correct usage of “not only... but also”?

a) She not only dances beautifully but also sings.

b) She not only dances beautifully but also she sings.

c) She not only beautifully dances but also sings.

2. Complete the below sentences:

Complete the sentence using “not only... but also”:

“He not only enjoys playing soccer, _____.”

a) but also, basketball

b) but also he enjoys swimming

c) but also, he enjoys playing guitar

3. Create Parallel Structures:

Create a parallel structure using “not only... but also”:

“The conference provided valuable insights. It also fostered meaningful connections.”

Rewrite the sentence using “not only... but also” to create a parallel structure.

4. Identify the Error:

Identify the error in the following sentence:

“She not only paints beautifully but also plays the violin.”

a) There is no error

b) “beautifully” should be replaced with "beautiful.”

c) “plays” should be replaced with "play.”

5. Match Sentences:

Match the first part of the sentence with the correct second part to form a sentence using “not only... but also”:

A. He not only excels in academics, but

B. They not only enjoy hiking, but

C. She not only cooks delicious meals, but

D. We not only visited museums, but

1. also we explored historical landmarks.

2. also they participate in community service.

3. also she paints stunning landscapes.

4. also he participates in extracurricular activities.

6. Create Your Own Sentence:

Create a sentence using “not only... but also” to emphasize two elements of your choice.

Key Answers:

1. Identify the Correct Usage:

Answer: a) She not only dances beautifully but also sings.

2. Complete the Sentence:

Answer: a) but also basketball

3. Create Parallel Structures:

Answer: “The conference not only provided valuable insights but also fostered meaningful connections.”

4. Identify the Error:

Answer: c) “plays” should be replaced with "play.”

5. Match Sentences:

Answers:

A — 3

B — 2

C — 1

D — 4

Try doing the given exercise on your own first, then refer to the key answers. If you are right, it’s good, but if you have made any kind of mistake, you will come to know where the mistake is by referring to the key answers.