not only but also — A correlative conjunction used to connect two elements, emphasizing that both are true or applicable
Part of speech: CONJUNCTION
Definition: A correlative conjunction used to connect two elements, emphasizing that both are true or applicable
Pronunciation (IPA): /nɑːt ˈoʊnli bʌt ˈɔːlsoʊ/
Example Sentences
- The new smartphone is not only expensive but also fragile.
- My cat is not only lazy but also a food thief who steals my sandwich.
- The exam was not only difficult but also surprisingly long.
not only but also
CONJUNCTION[/nɑːt ˈoʊnli bʌt ˈɔːlsoʊ/]
A correlative conjunction used to connect two elements, emphasizing that both are true or applicable
She is not only a doctor but also a talented violinist who performs every weekend.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This correlative conjunction structure emerged in Middle English by combining the negation particle 'not', the adverb 'only', the conjunction 'but', and the adverb 'also'. The phrase developed as a rhetorical device to emphasize the inclusive nature of statements, gradually becoming a standardized construction for coordination in Early Modern English.
Breakdown
not (negation particle) + only (adverb: solely) + but (conjunction: yet/however) + also (adverb: furthermore/in addition). The structure functions as a paired correlative conjunction linking parallel grammatical elements for emphasis and coordination.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The new smartphone is not only expensive but also fragile.”
“My cat is not only lazy but also a food thief who steals my sandwich.”
“The exam was not only difficult but also surprisingly long.”
“He not only forgot his homework but also wore his pajamas to school.”
📚Related Words
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