でもある

The structure でもある is used to express that something is also something else, in addition to what has already been stated or implied. It emphasizes that the subject holds an additional identity, role, or characteristic.

Basic usage

でもある is formed from the copula である with the particle も (also) inserted. It attaches to nouns and na-adjectives to indicate an additional quality or identity.

Expressing dual identities: ～であり～でもある

A common pattern is ～であり～でもある, meaning "is X and is also Y." This highlights that the subject possesses two (or more) identities or qualities simultaneously.

With na-adjectives

Since na-adjectives use the same copula structure, でもある can attach to them as well to add an additional description.

Polite form

The polite form is でもあります.

Nuance

Compared to simply using も with です (e.g. ～もです), でもある sounds more formal and literary. It is commonly found in written Japanese, essays, speeches, and explanations. In casual conversation, speakers are more likely to say something like 〜～もだ or rephrase the sentence entirely.