Translation guide
The English phrase "not only ..." is used to add emphasis or introduce additional information, often paired with "but also". In Japanese, this concept is expressed through several grammar patterns that vary by formality and structure.
To emphasize that both A and B are true, with B often being more surprising or important.
This is the most common and neutral pattern. It can be used in both spoken and written Japanese. A and B are nouns or noun phrases.
彼は英語だけでなく、中国語も話せる。
He can speak not only English but also Chinese.
This store not only has low prices but also good quality.
Similar to だけでなく, but slightly more formal or literary. Often used in writing.
彼は勉強ばかりでなく、スポーツも得意だ。
He is good at not only studying but also sports.
A formal, written pattern. Often used in academic or official contexts.
この問題は日本国内のみならず、国際的にも重要だ。
This issue is important not only domestically in Japan but also internationally.
To connect two clauses or predicates, emphasizing that both actions or states apply.
Use the plain form of the verb or adjective before だけでなく. The second clause often ends with も.
彼女は歌が上手なだけでなく、ダンスもできる。
She is not only good at singing but can also dance.
このアプリは便利なだけでなく、無料だ。
This app is not only convenient but also free.
Using the te-form of a verb/adjective with も can imply 'even if' or 'not only... but also' in a more casual, spoken way. Often used with し.
このカフェは雰囲気が良くて、コーヒーも美味しい。
This café has a nice atmosphere, and the coffee is good too. (implying not only atmosphere but also coffee)
To add another point or reason, often in conversation.
A common phrase meaning 'not only that'. Used to connect sentences.
このホテルは駅に近い。それだけでなく、値段も手頃だ。
This hotel is close to the station. Not only that, but the price is reasonable.
A conjunction meaning 'moreover' or 'on top of that'. Often used in casual speech.
彼は頭がいい。しかも、性格もいい。
He is smart. Not only that, but he also has a good personality.
All three patterns mean 'not only... but also'. だけでなく is the most common and neutral. ばかりでなく is slightly more formal and often used in writing. のみならず is very formal and literary, suitable for academic or official documents.
Do not directly translate 'not only' as だけではない without the following も. The pattern requires だけでなく...も to convey the full meaning.