English Grammar

Not only ... but also ...

Not only and but also normally go immediately before the words or expressions modified by them.

• The place was not only good, but also safe.
  
• She is not only a good wife, but also a good mother.
  
• She speaks not only English, but also French.
  

Mid position with verb is also possible.

• She not only speaks English, but also French.
  

For emphasis not only can be moved to the beginning of a clause. Note that we use the inverted word order 'not only + auxiliary verb + subject'. But can be left out in some cases.

• She was not only sad, but also angry.
  
• Not only was she sad, she was also angry.
  
• They not only need food, but also shelter.
  
• Not only do they need food, they also need shelter.
  

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