だけでなく(て)～も | Grammar

Structure

[noun] + だけでなく(て) + ～も

[verb (plain)] + だけでなく(て) + ～も

[i-adj] + だけでなく(て) + ～も

[na-adj (な)] + だけでなく(て) + ～も

Note: て is optional; both だけでなく and だけでなくて are used.

Description

The structure だけでなく(て)～も is used to express "not only… but also…". It indicates that something applies beyond just the first item mentioned, extending to an additional item or scope. This pattern can follow nouns, verbs, and adjectives.

Basic usage

The pattern highlights that something is true not just for one thing, but also for another.

、。

He can speak not only English, but also French.

、。

This shop is not only cheap, but also delicious.

With verbs

When used with verbs, the plain form precedes だけでなく.

、。

You should practice not only reading, but also writing.

、。

He is good not only at singing, but also at dancing.

だけでなく vs. だけでなくて

Both forms are interchangeable. The version with て (だけでなくて) sounds slightly more conversational, while だけでなく without て is common in both spoken and written Japanese.

だけではなく～も – A slightly more formal variant using は. Common in written Japanese and polite speech.
ばかりでなく～も – A synonym with a similar meaning, often used in more formal or literary contexts.
のみならず～も – A highly formal equivalent, typically found in written language and speeches.

Examples

、。

I am studying not only Japanese, but also Chinese.

、。

She is not only smart, but also good at sports.

、。

Not only children, but also adults can enjoy this movie.

、。

Don't just watch – please try doing it yourself too.

たなか田中、やまだ山田。

I heard that not only Tanaka but also Yamada is coming.

、。

Not only was the price high, but the service was also bad.

、。

There are branches not only in Tokyo, but also in Osaka.

、。

He properly does not only his job, but also the housework.

、。

This problem is not only difficult, but also time-consuming.

、。

Not only did it rain, but the wind was also strong.

、、。

For your health, you should pay attention not only to exercise, but also to your diet.

、。

This app is not only convenient, but also free to use.

References

だけでなくBunpro