Not only ... but also ...

When you use the conjunction “not only … but also…” to join independent clause, the word order sometimes causes problems. Here are some guidelines to help you.

• If not only comes at the beginning of the first clause, use auxiliary verbs right after not only.

Not only does she come from a rich family, but she is also very beautiful.

Not only will you see beautiful scenery, but you also get new experiences.

• If not only doesn’t come at the beginning of the first clause, use statement word order, and:

1. Place not only before main verbs

She not only comes from a rich family, but she is also very beautiful. (not only is placed before main verb comes)

1. Place not only after to be or auxiliary verbs.

Examples:

He is not only the most popular boy at school, but he also won last year science competition. (not only is placed after to be)

My mother can not only cook well, but she is also a good listener. (not only is placed after modal)

• When but also appears in a clause with a form of the verb to be, or with auxiliaries or modals, the word also comes after the verb form.

She can not only make a good poem, but she can also write a novel. (also comes after modal)

She has not only learned to speak four languages, but she has also taught literature at Harvard University for five years. (also is placed after auxiliary)

• When but also appears in a clause with a simple present or simple past tense verb, the word also comes before the verb.

He not only works full-time, but he also takes a course at night school. (also comes after the verb takes)

He not only ran his own business, but he also opened a school in Africa. (also comes after the verb opened)