Key Difference

• “Not only…but also…” emphasizes both elements, adding drama or surprise to the statement.
• “As well as” is more straightforward, simply adding information without as much emphasis.

1. “Not only…but also…”

This phrase is used to add emphasis and surprise to a sentence by introducing two related ideas. It’s great for situations where you want to highlight both parts strongly.

Structure:

• “Not only [first part of the sentence] but also [second part of the sentence].”

Examples:

• “She is not only a talented musician but also an incredible painter.”
• “The trip was not only exciting but also educational.”

Grammar Tips:

• Parallel structure: Keep both parts of the sentence in the same grammatical form (e.g., noun with noun, verb with verb).
  • Correct: “He not only sings but also dances.” (Both “sings” and “dances” are verbs)
  • Incorrect: “He not only sings but also a dancer.” (Mixes a verb and a noun)
• Positioning: You can place “not only” at the beginning of the sentence for extra emphasis:
  • “Not only did she win the race, but she also set a new record!”

2. “As well as”

“As well as” is used to add information without the strong emphasis that comes with “not only…but also.” It’s useful when you want to mention additional details in a calmer, more neutral way.

Structure:

• “[First part of the sentence] as well as [second part of the sentence].”

Examples:

• “He enjoys reading as well as writing.”
• “The resort offers a spa as well as a pool.”

Grammar Tips:

• No need for parallel structure: While it’s good to maintain grammatical consistency, “as well as” isn’t as strict. You can mix different parts of speech if needed.
  • “The coach praised her hard work as well as her team spirit.”
• Doesn’t change the subject’s form: The main verb form is often determined by the first subject.
  • “The chef, as well as the assistants, prepares the dishes daily.” (The verb “prepares” agrees with “chef”)

When to Choose One Over the Other

• Use “not only…but also…” when you want to add a touch of drama or highlight something surprising or impressive about the subject.
  • “The project not only won an award but also received funding for further research.”
• Use “as well as” when you’re simply adding related information or listing qualities without much emphasis.
  • “She’s a skilled pianist as well as a vocalist.”

Practice Time!

Fill in the blanks with the correct phrase: “not only…but also…” or “as well as.”

1. The movie was _________ thrilling _________ thought-provoking.
2. He speaks Spanish _________ French and German.
3. The city offers beautiful beaches _________ a rich cultural history.
4. I _________ love hiking _________ camping in the mountains.

Answers:

1. The movie was not only thrilling but also thought-provoking.
2. He speaks Spanish as well as French and German.
3. The city offers beautiful beaches as well as a rich cultural history.
4. I not only love hiking but also camping in the mountains.