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Not only … but also

We use not only X but also Y in formal contexts:

  • The war caused not only destruction and death but also generations of hatred between the two communities.
  • The car not only is economical but also feels good to drive.
  • This investigation is not only one that is continuing and worldwide but also one that we expect to continue for quite some time.

We can sometimes leave out also:

  • I identified with Denzel Washington not only as an actor but as a person.

To add emphasis, we can use not only at the beginning of a clause. When we do this, we invert the subject and the verb:

  • Not only was it raining all day at the wedding but also the band was late.
  • Not only will they paint the outside of the house but also the inside.

When there is no auxiliary verb or main verb be, we use do, does, did:

  • Not only did she forget my birthday, but she also didn’t even apologise for forgetting it.
See also
  • Inversion