How to Express ‘Not Only… But Also…’ in Chinese

The phrase ‘Not Only… But Also…’ is a common structure in English that conveys the idea of adding information or emphasising a point. In Chinese, this concept is expressed through various phrases, each with its own nuances and contexts.

Understanding the structure of these phrases is essential for learners of the language, as it allows for more sophisticated expression and comprehension. The Chinese language is rich in its ability to convey complex ideas succinctly, and mastering these structures can significantly enhance one’s fluency. In Chinese, the phrase ‘Not Only…

But Also…’ can be translated into several forms, including 不仅…而且…, 不只是…而且…, and 不但…而且…. Each of these phrases serves a similar purpose but may differ slightly in usage depending on the context. For instance, 不仅…而且…

is often used in formal writing or speech, while 不只是…而且… might be more common in casual conversation. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective communication, as it allows speakers to choose the most appropriate phrase for their intended message.

The phrase 不仅…而且… is one of the most widely used structures to express ‘Not Only… But Also…’ in Chinese. It is particularly favoured in formal contexts, such as academic writing or professional presentations. The structure consists of 不仅 (bù jǐn), meaning ‘not only’, followed by a subject or action, and then 而且 (ér qiě), which translates to ‘but also’. This construction effectively highlights the addition of information, making it a powerful tool for emphasising points. For example, one might say, “这本书不仅有趣，而且内容丰富” (Zhè běn shū bù jǐn yǒuqù, érqiě nèiróng fēngfù), which translates to “This book is not only interesting, but also rich in content.” Here, the speaker uses 不仅…而且… to underscore the dual qualities of the book, enhancing the overall impact of the statement. This structure is particularly useful when trying to persuade or inform an audience, as it allows for a more compelling argument.

Another common phrase used to express ‘Not Only… But Also…’ in Chinese is 不只是…而且…. This structure is slightly more informal than 不仅…而且…, making it suitable for everyday conversations and casual writing.

The phrase 不只是 (bù zhǐ shì) translates to ‘not just’, which adds a layer of emphasis on the idea that there is more to consider beyond the initial point. For instance, one might say, “他不只是一个好老师，而且还是个好朋友” (Tā bù zhǐ shì yīgè hǎo lǎoshī, érqiě hái shì gè hǎo péngyǒu), meaning “He is not just a good teacher, but also a good friend.” This construction allows the speaker to convey a sense of warmth and familiarity while still emphasising the dual roles of the individual being discussed. The use of 不只是…而且…

can create a more personal connection with the audience, making it an effective choice in many social contexts.

The phrase 不但…而且… is another variation that serves to express ‘Not Only… But Also…’ in Chinese. Similar to 不仅…而且…, this structure is often used in both spoken and written forms. The term 不但 (bù dàn) translates to ‘not only’, while 而且 (ér qiě) retains its meaning of ‘but also’. This phrase can be particularly effective when discussing multiple attributes or actions related to a subject. For example, one might say, “这部电影不但精彩，而且演员表现出色” (Zhè bù diànyǐng bù dàn jīngcǎi, érqiě yǎnyuán biǎoxiàn chūsè), which means “This movie is not only exciting, but also features outstanding performances by the actors.” Here, the speaker uses 不但…而且… to highlight both the quality of the film and the talent of its cast. This structure can be particularly persuasive when trying to convince someone of the merits of something, as it allows for a comprehensive presentation of information.

The phrase 不光…还… is another way to articulate ‘Not Only… But Also…’ in Chinese. This structure is often used in informal contexts and carries a slightly different connotation compared to its counterparts. The term 不光 (bù guāng) translates to ‘not only’, while 还 (hái) means ‘also’ or ‘furthermore’. This construction can add a sense of casualness and relatability to one’s speech. For instance, one might say, “他不光会说中文，还会说英语” (Tā bù guāng huì shuō zhōngwén, hái huì shuō yīngyǔ), meaning “He not only speaks Chinese but also speaks English.” This phrase effectively conveys the idea that the individual possesses multiple language skills without sounding overly formal. The use of 不光…还… can create a friendly tone that resonates well in everyday conversations.

The structure 不只有…还有… serves as another means to express ‘Not Only… But Also…’ in Chinese. This phrase is particularly useful when discussing quantities or availability. The term 不只有 (bù zhǐ yǒu) translates to ‘not only have’, while 还有 (hái yǒu) means ‘there are also’. This construction can be effective when highlighting additional options or features. For example, one might say, “这个商店不只有衣服，还有鞋子和配饰” (Zhège shāngdiàn bù zhǐ yǒu yīfú, hái yǒu xiézi hé pèishì), which translates to “This store not only has clothes but also shoes and accessories.” Here, the speaker uses 不只有…还有… to emphasise the variety available at the store. This structure can be particularly useful in marketing or promotional contexts, as it draws attention to multiple offerings.

The phrase 不仅仅…而且… adds another layer of nuance when expressing ‘Not Only… But Also…’ in Chinese. The term 不仅仅 (bù jǐn jǐn) translates to ‘not only just’, which implies that there is more depth or significance to what is being discussed. This structure can be particularly effective when trying to convey a sense of importance or gravity regarding a subject. For instance, one might say, “这项研究不仅仅是理论，而且有实际应用” (Zhè xiàng yánjiū bù jǐn jǐn shì lǐlùn, érqiě yǒu shíjì yìngyòng), meaning “This research is not only theoretical but also has practical applications.” The use of 不仅仅…而且… here underscores the significance of the research beyond mere theory. This structure can be particularly impactful in academic or professional discussions where depth and relevance are crucial.

The phrase 不只是…也… offers yet another way to articulate ‘Not Only… But Also…’ in Chinese. This structure is similar to 不只是…而且…, but it employs 也 (yě) instead of 而且 (ér qiě). The term 也 translates to ‘also’, and its use can create a slightly different rhythm and emphasis within a sentence. For example, one might say, “她不只是一个优秀的学生，也是一位出色的运动员” (Tā bù zhǐ shì yīgè yōuxiù de xuéshēng, yě shì yī wèi chūsè de yùndòngyuán), meaning “She is not only an excellent student but also an outstanding athlete.” In this case, using 不只是…也… allows for a smooth transition between two commendable qualities without losing emphasis on either aspect. This structure can be particularly effective in personal testimonials or recommendations.

The phrase 不但是…也… serves as another variation for expressing ‘Not Only… But Also…’ in Chinese. Similar to other structures discussed previously, this phrase combines 不但是 (bù dàn shì), meaning ‘not only is it’, with 也 (yě). This construction can be particularly effective when discussing characteristics or attributes that are equally important. For instance, one might say, “这款手机不但是功能强大，也很美观” (Zhè kuǎn shǒujī bù dàn shì gōngnéng qiángdà, yě hěn měiguān), which translates to “This phone is not only powerful in function but also aesthetically pleasing.” Here, the speaker uses 不但是…也… to highlight both functional and aesthetic qualities of the phone. This structure can be particularly persuasive when trying to market products or services by showcasing multiple appealing features.

While both 不仅…也… and 不但…也… serve similar purposes in expressing ‘Not Only…

But Also…’, there are subtle differences between them that learners should be aware of. Generally speaking, 不仅 tends to be used more frequently in formal contexts, while 不但 may appear more often in casual conversations. However, both structures are interchangeable in many situations.

For example, one could say either “这道菜不仅好吃，也很健康” (Zhè dào cài bù jǐn hǎochī, yě hěn jiànkāng) or “这道菜不但好吃，也很健康” (Zhè dào cài bù dàn hǎochī, yě hěn jiànkāng), both meaning “This dish is not only delicious but also healthy.” Understanding these nuances can help learners choose the most appropriate expression based on their audience and context.

When learning how to express ‘Not Only… But Also…’ in Chinese, there are several common mistakes that learners should be mindful of. One frequent error involves mixing up the various structures discussed above.

For instance, using 不仅 with 而且 instead of 也 can lead to awkward phrasing that may confuse listeners or readers. Another common mistake is failing to maintain parallelism within sentences. When using these structures, it is essential that both parts of the phrase are grammatically consistent.

For example, saying “他不仅喜欢游泳，而且喜欢跑步” (Tā bù jǐn xǐhuān yóuyǒng, érqiě xǐhuān pǎobù) maintains parallelism because both verbs are structured similarly. However, if one were to say “他不仅游泳，而且喜欢跑步”, it disrupts this balance and may sound less fluent. In conclusion, mastering the various ways to express ‘Not Only…

But Also…’ in Chinese can significantly enhance one’s language skills and communication abilities. Each structure offers unique nuances that cater to different contexts and audiences. For those interested in deepening their understanding of these phrases and other aspects of the Chinese language, enrolling in courses at institutions like NLS Norwegian Language School in Oslo can provide invaluable guidance and support.

With dedicated instruction and practice, learners can gain confidence and proficiency in using these expressions effectively within their conversations and writings.

Ready to speak Chinese? Enroll for Chinese classes at the NLS Norwegian Language School in Oslo!