〜のみならず
〜のみならず في 30 ثانية
- Formal 'not only... but also'.
- Used in writing and formal speeches.
- Connects nouns, verbs, and adjectives.
- Often followed by 'mo' (also).
The Japanese expression 〜のみならず (nominarazu) is a sophisticated and formal grammatical construction used to convey the concept of 'not only... but also.' In linguistic terms, it functions as a conjunctive particle that expands the scope of a statement beyond the initial subject or condition mentioned. While the more common 〜だけでなく serves a similar purpose in daily conversation, 〜のみならず elevates the register, making it indispensable for academic writing, professional presentations, and formal literature. The term is rooted in classical Japanese, combining the particle 'nomi' (only), the auxiliary verb 'nari' (to be), and the negative suffix 'zu' (not). This etymological lineage gives it a weight and authority that 'dake de naku' lacks.
- Semantic Range
- It indicates that the preceding element is just one part of a larger reality. It suggests that what follows is often even more significant or surprising than the first part.
- Syntactic Flexibility
- It can follow nouns directly, or follow verbs and adjectives in their dictionary or attributive forms. With nouns, 'de aru' is sometimes inserted for extra formality.
- Pragmatic Effect
- Using this expression signals to the listener that the speaker is providing a comprehensive overview, often used in persuasive speech to build a cumulative argument.
「この計画は、我が社のみならず、地域社会全体に利益をもたらすものです。」 (This plan brings benefits not only to our company but to the entire local community.)
「彼は俳優としてのみならず、映画監督としても成功を収めている。」 (He is successful not only as an actor but also as a film director.)
「日本国内のみならず、海外でも高い評価を得ている。」 (It is highly evaluated not only within Japan but also overseas.)
「地球温暖化は人間のみならず、全ての生物に影響を及ぼす。」 (Global warming affects not only humans but all living creatures.)
「この薬は効果があるのみならず、副作用も少ない。」 (This medicine is not only effective but also has few side effects.)
- Historical Context
- The 'zu' ending is the classical negative. In modern Japanese, we usually use 'nai', but 'zu' survives in formal set phrases like this one, providing a sense of tradition and permanence.
Mastering 〜のみならず requires understanding its grammatical 'hooks' and the logical flow it demands. It is primarily a connector that links two related but distinct points, where the second point usually reinforces or expands upon the first. The structure is remarkably consistent across different parts of speech, but there are subtle nuances to keep in mind to ensure your Japanese sounds natural and professional.
1. Connecting with Nouns
This is the most frequent usage. You can attach のみならず directly to a noun. In highly formal contexts, you might see Noun + であるのみならず, but the direct attachment is standard for B1-C1 levels.
- Structure: [Noun] + のみならず
- Example: 子供のみならず (Not only children...)
2. Connecting with Verbs
When using verbs, use the plain form (dictionary form, past form, or negative form). This allows you to describe actions that are not the only things happening.
- Structure: [Verb Plain Form] + のみならず
- Example: 食べるのみならず (Not only eating...)
3. Connecting with Adjectives
For い-adjectives, use the dictionary form. For な-adjectives, use the form ending in 〜である or simply the stem plus な (though である is much more common with this specific grammar point).
- Structure: [い-Adj] + のみならず / [な-Adj] + であるのみならず
- Example: 美しいのみならず (Not only beautiful...) / 便利であるのみならず (Not only convenient...)
The Logical 'Second Half'
A sentence using のみならず is incomplete without its counterpart. The second clause often contains the particle も (also) to balance the 'not only' part. It follows the pattern: [A]のみならず、[B]も.... This creates a rhythmic balance in the sentence that is very pleasing to the Japanese ear.
Pro Tip: The 'Surprise' Factor
To make your writing more impactful, make [B] something that the reader might not expect. For example: 'He is not only a genius, but also a hard worker.' The 'hard worker' part adds a layer of depth that 'genius' alone doesn't cover.
In academic writing, のみならず is often used to transition between paragraphs or sections, summarizing the previous point before introducing a new, broader one. This helps in building a 'ladder' of logic that leads the reader to a conclusion.
Understanding the 'habitat' of 〜のみならず is key to using it correctly. You won't find it in a casual chat over coffee, but you will find it everywhere in the 'Adult World' of Japan. It is a hallmark of the Written Style (書き言葉 - Kakikotoba) and Formal Spoken Style (改まった話し言葉 - Aratamatta Hanashikotoba).
1. News Broadcasts and Journalism
News anchors use のみならず to report on events that have wide-reaching consequences. For example, 'The economic crisis affects not only the stock market but also the daily lives of citizens.' It provides a sense of gravity and objectivity to the reporting.
2. Business Presentations and Reports
In a boardroom, precision is valued. When a manager says, 'This project is important not only for sales but also for our brand image,' using のみならず makes the statement sound considered and professional. It shows that the speaker has looked at the issue from multiple angles.
3. Academic Lectures and Papers
Professors and researchers use this expression to link variables or theories. 'This phenomenon is observed not only in biology but also in chemistry.' It is a standard tool for defining the scope of research.
4. Political Speeches
Politicians love this phrase because it sounds inclusive. 'We must consider not only the present but also the future of our children.' It helps in creating a rhetorical flourish that sounds statesmanlike.
Formal Setting
"This technology is innovative not only in its design but also in its sustainability."
Public Announcement
"The museum is open not only on weekdays but also on national holidays."
If you are watching a Japanese drama, you might hear a doctor or a lawyer use it. It characterizes the speaker as someone educated, serious, or authoritative. Conversely, if a 'rebellious' character uses it, it might be to mock someone or to show they are smarter than they look.
While 〜のみならず is a powerful tool, it is often misused by learners who treat it as a direct synonym for 'and' or 'also' without considering its specific constraints. Avoiding these pitfalls will make your Japanese sound much more natural.
1. Register Mismatch
The most common mistake is using のみならず in a casual setting. Saying 「今日は暑いのみならず、風も強いね」 to a friend sounds bizarrely formal. In this case, 「今日は暑いし、風も強いね」 or 「暑いだけじゃなくて...」 is much better.
2. Forgetting the Second Clause
のみならず is a bridge. If you build a bridge but don't have a destination on the other side, the sentence collapses. You must follow up with a second point, usually marked with も, さえ, or まで.
3. Incorrect Particle Usage with Nouns
Learners sometimes try to add は or が before のみならず. Incorrect: 「彼がのみならず...」. Correct: 「彼のみならず...」. The expression itself contains the logical 'subject' or 'topic' function for that part of the sentence.
4. Overuse
Because it sounds 'cool' and 'advanced,' some learners use it in every sentence. This makes your writing feel heavy and exhausting to read. Use it sparingly to highlight your most important 'not only... but also' points.
The 'Dake' Confusion
Do not confuse 'nominarazu' with 'nomi' (only). While 'nomi' limits the scope, 'nominarazu' (not only) expands it. They are opposites in function!
5. Confusing with 'Bakari ka'
While 〜ばかりか also means 'not only,' it often carries a nuance of 'not only [something expected], but even [something extreme/negative].' のみならず is more neutral and objective. Using 'bakari ka' for a purely positive or neutral list can sometimes feel slightly off-balance.
Japanese has several ways to say 'not only... but also,' each with its own flavor and 'social rank.' Knowing which one to pick is the mark of a truly advanced speaker.
1. 〜だけでなく (Dake de naku)
This is the 'Swiss Army Knife' of this grammar family. It is neutral, used in both speaking and writing, and is the safest choice for most situations. If のみならず is a tuxedo, だけでなく is a nice pair of jeans and a button-down shirt.
2. 〜ばかりか (Bakari ka)
This is more emphatic than のみならず. It often implies that the second thing is even more surprising or extreme than the first. It is frequently used for negative situations: 'Not only did he lose his wallet, but he also lost his passport!'
3. 〜にとどまらず (Ni todomarazu)
This literally means 'not stopping at...' It is used when something starts in one area and spreads to a much larger one. It has a very dynamic, 'expanding' feel. 'The protest did not stop at the capital but spread to the whole country.'
4. 〜はもちろん (Wa mochiron)
This means 'A is a given, and B is also true.' It assumes the first point is obvious. のみならず doesn't necessarily assume the first point is obvious; it just lists it as the first of two points.
| Expression | Formality | Nuance |
|---|---|---|
| だけでなく | Medium | Neutral / General purpose |
| のみならず | High | Formal / Objective |
| ばかりか | High | Emphatic / Surprising |
| にとどまらず | High | Spreading / Scope-focused |
Choosing between these depends on your relationship with the listener and the 'drama' level of your statement. For a B1 learner, moving from だけでなく to のみならず is a major step toward sounding like a mature Japanese speaker.
How Formal Is It?
""
مستوى الصعوبة
قواعد يجب معرفتها
أمثلة حسب المستوى
りんごのみならず、みかんも好きです。
Not only apples, but I also like oranges.
A1 version of 'and also'.
日本人のみならず、外国人もいます。
Not only Japanese people, but there are also foreigners.
Simple noun connection.
東京のみならず、大阪もにぎやかです。
Not only Tokyo, but Osaka is also lively.
Comparing two cities.
犬のみならず、猫も飼っています。
Not only a dog, but I also keep a cat.
Listing pets.
歌のみならず、ダンスも上手です。
Not only singing, but they are also good at dancing.
Listing skills.
雨のみならず、風も強いです。
Not only rain, but the wind is also strong.
Describing weather.
本のみならず、雑誌も読みます。
Not only books, but I also read magazines.
Listing reading materials.
肉のみならず、野菜も食べてください。
Please eat not only meat but also vegetables.
Giving a simple suggestion.
この料理は、おいしいのみならず、見た目もきれいです。
This dish is not only delicious but also looks beautiful.
Using with an i-adjective.
彼は勉強のみならず、スポーツも得意です。
He is good at not only studying but also sports.
Describing a multi-talented person.
この本は、子供のみならず、大人も楽しめます。
This book can be enjoyed not only by children but also by adults.
Targeting different age groups.
週末のみならず、平日も忙しいです。
I am busy not only on weekends but also on weekdays.
Time-based usage.
漢字のみならず、文法も難しいです。
Not only Kanji, but grammar is also difficult.
Listing difficulties.
ピアノのみならず、バイオリンも弾けます。
I can play not only the piano but also the violin.
Listing abilities.
国内のみならず、海外旅行も好きです。
I like not only domestic travel but also overseas travel.
Comparing travel types.
野菜のみならず、果物もたくさん食べています。
I am eating not only vegetables but also a lot of fruit.
Health-related context.
この映画は、日本のみならず、世界中でヒットした。
This movie was a hit not only in Japan but all over the world.
Standard B1 formal usage.
彼は歌手としてのみならず、俳優としても活躍している。
He is active not only as a singer but also as an actor.
Using 'toshite' with 'nominarazu'.
環境問題は、一国のみならず、地球全体の課題である。
Environmental issues are a challenge not only for one country but for the entire planet.
Academic/Formal tone.
この薬は、痛みを抑えるのみならず、炎症も鎮める効果がある。
This medicine is effective not only in suppressing pain but also in calming inflammation.
Using with a verb.
彼女は英語のみならず、フランス語と中国語も話せる。
She can speak not only English but also French and Chinese.
Listing multiple items in the second clause.
その事件は、政治のみならず、経済にも大きな影響を与えた。
That incident had a great impact not only on politics but also on the economy.
Describing broad impacts.
このスマートフォンは、デザインが良いのみならず、機能も充実している。
This smartphone not only has a good design but is also full of features.
Using with an adjective.
彼は自分のミスのみならず、チーム全体の責任だと感じている。
He feels it is the responsibility of not only his own mistake but the whole team.
Expressing responsibility.
少子高齢化は、日本のみならず、多くの先進国が直面している問題だ。
The declining birthrate and aging population is a problem faced not only by Japan but by many developed countries.
Societal context.
この新技術は、コストを削減するのみならず、作業効率を大幅に向上させる。
This new technology not only reduces costs but also significantly improves work efficiency.
Business/Technical context.
言葉は単なる伝達手段であるのみならず、その国の文化を反映するものである。
Language is not only a mere means of communication but something that reflects the culture of that country.
Philosophical/Linguistic context.
彼は経営者としてのみならず、慈善家としても広く知られている。
He is widely known not only as a business manager but also as a philanthropist.
Describing public figures.
その決断は、短期的のみならず、長期的にも大きな意味を持つだろう。
That decision will have great significance not only in the short term but also in the long term.
Time-horizon comparison.
現代社会において、インターネットは情報の収集のみならず、自己表現の場ともなっている。
In modern society, the internet is not only for gathering information but also a place for self-expression.
Social analysis.
この建築物は、機能的であるのみならず、芸術的価値も非常に高い。
This building is not only functional but also has very high artistic value.
Using 'de aru' with a na-adjective.
教育は個人の成長のみならず、国家の繁栄に欠かせない要素である。
Education is an essential element not only for individual growth but also for national prosperity.
Abstract formal statement.
古典文学の研究は、過去を知るのみならず、現代を問い直す契機ともなり得る。
The study of classical literature can be an opportunity not only to know the past but also to re-examine the present.
High-level academic rhetoric.
その法改正は、企業の利益のみならず、労働者の権利保護をも目的としている。
The legal amendment aims not only for corporate profit but also for the protection of workers' rights.
Legal/Policy context.
彼の理論は、物理学の範疇のみならず、哲学的な議論にも一石を投じた。
His theory created a stir not only in the field of physics but also in philosophical debates.
Using idioms like 'isseki o toujiru'.
芸術は、美を追求するのみならず、社会の矛盾を告発する力を持っている。
Art has the power not only to pursue beauty but also to denounce social contradictions.
Critical theory context.
気候変動への対策は、政府のみならず、民間企業や個人の協力が不可欠である。
Measures against climate change require the cooperation of not only the government but also private companies and individuals.
Complex listing.
この歴史的発見は、従来の定説を覆すのみならず、新たな学問領域を切り拓くものだ。
This historical discovery not only overturns conventional theories but also opens up new fields of study.
Scientific breakthrough context.
震災の記憶を語り継ぐことは、犠牲者を悼むのみならず、未来の命を守ることにつながる。
Passing on the memories of the earthquake disaster leads not only to mourning the victims but also to protecting future lives.
Emotional/Formal weight.
グローバル化は、経済の統合を促すのみならず、文化の画一化という懸念も孕んでいる。
Globalization not only promotes economic integration but also carries the concern of cultural homogenization.
Nuanced critical analysis.
知の探求は、真理を究明するのみならず、自己の無知を自覚する崇高な営みである。
The pursuit of knowledge is a sublime endeavor not only to investigate truth but also to become aware of one's own ignorance.
Philosophical depth.
権力は、他者を支配するのみならず、行使する者自身の精神をも蝕む危険性を秘めている。
Power holds the danger of not only dominating others but also eroding the spirit of the one who wields it.
Psychological/Political insight.
言語の壁は、意思疎通を拒むのみならず、異文化への想像力を奪うことさえある。
Language barriers not only refuse communication but can even rob one of the imagination toward different cultures.
Using 'sae' for emphasis.
伝統の継承は、形式を保存するのみならず、その精神を現代に即して再定義する作業に他ならない。
The succession of tradition is nothing other than the task of not only preserving forms but also redefining their spirit in line with the present.
Using 'ni hokanaranai'.
科学の進歩は、人類に恩恵をもたらすのみならず、倫理的なジレンマという重い課題を突きつけている。
Scientific progress not only brings benefits to humanity but also presents heavy challenges in the form of ethical dilemmas.
Complex abstract nouns.
自由とは、束縛がない状態を指すのみならず、自己の行動に責任を負う覚悟を伴うものである。
Freedom refers not only to a state of no constraints but also involves the readiness to take responsibility for one's own actions.
Defining abstract concepts.
平和とは、単に戦争がない状態を意味するのみならず、正義と人権が保障された社会の実現を指す。
Peace means not only the absence of war but refers to the realization of a society where justice and human rights are guaranteed.
Political philosophy.
文学の真髄は、物語を語るのみならず、言葉の限界を超えて人間の深淵に触れることにある。
The essence of literature lies not only in telling a story but in touching the abyss of humanity beyond the limits of language.
Literary criticism.
تلازمات شائعة
العبارات الشائعة
〜のみならず、〜も
〜であるのみならず
〜のみならず、〜さえ
〜のみならず、〜まで
単に〜のみならず
يُخلط عادةً مع
'Nomi' means 'only' (limiting), while 'nominarazu' means 'not only' (expanding).
'Bakari ka' is more emphatic and often used for negative/surprising things.
'Ni todomarazu' specifically emphasizes the expansion of scope.
تعبيرات اصطلاحية
""
""
""
""
""
سهل الخلط
أنماط الجُمل
عائلة الكلمة
مرتبط
كيفية الاستخدام
More formal than 'dake de naku'.
Used mostly in writing or formal speeches.
The second clause often uses 'mo', 'sae', or 'made'.
- Using it in casual speech with friends.
- Adding 'wa' or 'ga' before 'nominarazu'.
- Forgetting to provide a second point after the phrase.
- Using it with 'shika' (which is for limiting, not expanding).
- Using it in a sentence that is otherwise very informal.
نصائح
Noun Connection
You can attach it directly to nouns. No need for particles like 'wa' or 'ga' in between.
Formal Situations
Use this during job interviews to sound more professional and educated.
Essay Structure
Use it to link two supporting points in a body paragraph.
Objective Tone
Use 'nominarazu' for facts and 'bakari ka' for things that surprise you.
Public Speaking
It helps in making your speech sound more structured and persuasive.
News Keywords
Listen for this word in NHK news to identify the scope of a report.
Academic Papers
It's a very common marker for multi-variable analysis.
The 'Zu' Ending
Remember that 'zu' is an old way to say 'not', which makes the phrase formal.
Don't Overuse
Using it too much makes your Japanese sound 'heavy'. Mix it with other connectors.
Balance
If you use 'nominarazu', make sure the rest of your sentence is also in formal Japanese (Desu/Masu or Da/De aru).
احفظها
أصل الكلمة
Classical Japanese
السياق الثقافي
Common in NHK news broadcasts.
Standard in 'Ronbun' (Theses).
Essential for 'Hou-Ren-Sou' (Reporting) to superiors.
تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية
سياقات واقعية
بدايات محادثة
"この問題は、私たちのみならず、次世代にも関わることだと思いませんか?"
"彼は仕事のみならず、趣味にも全力投球ですね。"
"この技術は、日本のみならず世界を変える可能性があります。"
مواضيع للكتابة اليومية
Write about a person who is not only talented but also kind.
Discuss a social issue that affects not only your country but the whole world.
Describe a book or movie that was not only entertaining but also educational.
الأسئلة الشائعة
10 أسئلةYes, the basic meaning is the same, but 'nominarazu' is much more formal and used in written Japanese or formal speeches.
It's better not to. It sounds too stiff and formal for casual conversation. Use 'dake de naku' or 'shite' instead.
It is very common and recommended to use 'mo' to balance the sentence, but it's not strictly mandatory if the context is clear.
Yes, you can say 'A shinai nominarazu, B mo shinai' (Not only does it not do A, it doesn't do B either).
It is typically introduced at the N3 level but is used extensively in N2 and N1 level materials.
'Bakari ka' often implies that the second part is even more extreme or unexpected than the first.
No, it is a connector. To start a sentence with 'Not only that...', you would use 'Sore nominarazu...'.
It's not strictly necessary for nouns, but it adds a layer of formality. For na-adjectives, it is the standard way to connect.
No, it is almost always written in hiragana, though 'nomi' can be written as '已' or '耳' in very rare, archaic contexts.
Yes, it is very appropriate for formal business correspondence.
اختبر نفسك 180 أسئلة
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Use '〜のみならず' when you want to sound professional, academic, or authoritative while listing multiple related points. It is the formal equivalent of '〜だけでなく' and is essential for high-level Japanese proficiency.
- Formal 'not only... but also'.
- Used in writing and formal speeches.
- Connects nouns, verbs, and adjectives.
- Often followed by 'mo' (also).
Noun Connection
You can attach it directly to nouns. No need for particles like 'wa' or 'ga' in between.
Formal Situations
Use this during job interviews to sound more professional and educated.
Essay Structure
Use it to link two supporting points in a body paragraph.
Objective Tone
Use 'nominarazu' for facts and 'bakari ka' for things that surprise you.
محتوى ذو صلة
هذه الكلمة بلغات أخرى
مزيد من كلمات academic
絶対的
B2Absolute; not qualified or diminished in any way; total.
絶対的に
B1In a complete, unconditional, or conclusive manner; absolutely.
抽象的だ
B1Abstract; existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.
抽象
B2Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence. It refers to generalizing or extracting the essence of something away from specific details.
抽象的に
B1In an abstract or theoretical manner.
学術的な
B1Academic, scholarly; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的だ
B1Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的
B2Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術
B1Academia; scholarship; relating to scholarly pursuits.
学力
B1Academic ability; a person's level of knowledge and skill in academic subjects.