1
Core condition
Link and emphasise two jointly true ideas, with the second often adding force.
Example
The treatment not only reduced pain but also improved mobility.
not only ... but also
/nɒt ˈəʊnli bət ˈɔːlsəʊ/ · not OHN-lee but AWL-sohcorrelative construction
Link and emphasise two jointly true ideas, with the second often adding force.
Use not only ... but also to express this relationship precisely: link and emphasise two jointly true ideas, with the second often adding force.
What not only ... but also Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Clause-level frame
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
Not only did the survey cover more villages, but it also included younger residents.
3
Limit on the claim
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The reform affected not only prices but also access to credit.
Use not only ... but also Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The treatment not only reduced pain but also improved mobility.
Not only did the survey cover more villages, but it also included younger residents.
The reform affected not only prices but also access to credit.
Precision Matters
Not only ... but also overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
not only ... but also
vs.Means link and emphasise two jointly true ideas, with the second often adding force.
furthermore
Means add another point that supports or extends what has just been stated.
not only ... but also
vs.Means link and emphasise two jointly true ideas, with the second often adding force.
in addition to
Means add a person, thing, or consideration to one already mentioned.
not only ... but also
vs.Means link and emphasise two jointly true ideas, with the second often adding force.
moreover
Means add a further point that strengthens the preceding argument.
not only ... but also
vs.Means link and emphasise two jointly true ideas, with the second often adding force.
likewise
Means show that a similar statement, action, or relationship applies to another case.
Test not only ... but also in Context
The construction presents two parallel claims as jointly true.
1
To emphasise that both benefits apply, the writer links “reduces cost” and “improves accuracy” with the construction ___.