Not only but also

The English language is a rich tapestry of phrases and idioms that add color and depth to our conversations and writings. One such phrase is "not only but also," a coordinating conjunction that is used to emphasize the importance of two or more ideas in a sentence. This phrase is a powerful tool in the hands of a skilled writer, allowing them to highlight multiple points of interest or importance in a single sentence. In this article, we will delve into the usage, structure, and examples of "not only but also."

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">Understanding the Usage of "Not Only But Also"</h2>

The phrase "not only but also" is used to introduce two or more points or facts that are equally important. It is a way of saying that both points are significant and should be considered together. This phrase is often used in formal writing, such as academic papers, business reports, and legal documents, but it can also be used in informal writing and conversation.

The structure of a sentence using "not only but also" is as follows: "Not only + clause 1, but also + clause 2." Both clauses should be parallel in structure. That is, if clause 1 is a noun phrase, clause 2 should also be a noun phrase. If clause 1 is a verb phrase, clause 2 should also be a verb phrase.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">Examples of "Not Only But Also" in Sentences</h2>

To better understand the use of "not only but also," let's look at some examples.

1. "The new policy is not only unfair, but also discriminatory."

2. "She is not only a talented artist, but also a successful businesswoman."

3. "The project will not only create jobs, but also stimulate economic growth."

In each of these examples, the phrase "not only but also" is used to emphasize the importance of both points in the sentence.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them</h2>

While "not only but also" is a useful phrase, it can also be tricky to use correctly. One common mistake is not maintaining parallel structure in the two clauses. For example, "He is not only intelligent, but also working hard" is incorrect because "intelligent" is an adjective and "working hard" is a verb phrase. The correct sentence would be "He is not only intelligent, but also hard-working."

Another common mistake is using "not only but also" to introduce more than two points. This can make the sentence confusing and difficult to read. If you have more than two points to emphasize, it's better to use a different structure, such as a list or multiple sentences.

In conclusion, "not only but also" is a powerful phrase that can add emphasis and depth to your writing. By understanding its usage and structure, and avoiding common mistakes, you can use this phrase to effectively highlight multiple points in your sentences. Whether you're writing an academic paper, a business report, or a casual email, "not only but also" can help you convey your ideas more effectively and persuasively.