Explanation at your level:
Hello! Let's learn a new phrase: ~dake de naku. It means 'not only this, but also that'. Imagine you have two toys. You can say, 'I have a car dake de naku, I also have a ball!' It helps you talk about two things. It's like saying 'and also'. You can use it when you want to tell someone about more than one thing you like or have. For example, 'I like apples dake de naku, I like bananas too!' It's a simple way to add more information.
The phrase ~dake de naku is used to connect two ideas, meaning 'not only X, but also Y'. It's very useful for adding more information to your sentences. For example, if you want to say someone is good at drawing and also good at singing, you can say: 'She is good at drawing dake de naku, she is also good at singing.' Notice how it links two positive qualities. You can use it with nouns, verbs, or adjectives. It helps make your descriptions more complete by showing that there's more to the story than just the first part.
~dake de naku is a conjunctive phrase that translates to 'not only... but also...'. It allows you to present two related points, often with the second point being an addition or even more significant than the first. The common structure is [Item 1] + dake de naku, [Item 2]. It's frequently followed by mo (also/too) for emphasis: [Item 1] + dake de naku, [Item 2] + mo. For instance, 'This book is informative dake de naku, it's also very interesting.' This phrase is essential for building more complex sentences and expressing nuanced relationships between ideas in both spoken and written Japanese.
The conjunctive phrase ~dake de naku serves to link two elements, signifying 'not only X, but also Y'. It's employed to introduce an additional, often equally or more important, aspect to a preceding statement. The grammatical pattern typically involves a noun, verb (plain form), or adjective (plain form) followed by dake de naku, and then the second element. A frequent collocation is ~dake de naku, ~mo, which reinforces the additive nature. For example, 'The project requires technical skills dake de naku, it also demands strong leadership abilities.' Understanding its usage helps in grasping more sophisticated sentence structures and appreciating the layering of information in Japanese discourse.
~dake de naku is a sophisticated conjunctive phrase meaning 'not only... but also...'. It functions to connect two parallel elements, where the second element serves to expand upon, complement, or even surpass the significance of the first. Its application extends beyond simple enumeration; it often implies a comprehensive view or a layered argument. Consider its use in academic or analytical contexts: 'The research findings are significant dake de naku, they also present novel theoretical implications.' The phrase can be followed by particles like mo or nō ni to modulate the nuance, adding emphasis or a sense of contrast respectively. Mastery of ~dake de naku is key to constructing complex sentences and articulating intricate relationships between ideas with precision.
In advanced Japanese discourse, ~dake de naku serves as a crucial conjunctive element, translating to 'not only... but also...'. It allows for the elegant juxtaposition of two related concepts, often highlighting the breadth or depth of a subject. Beyond its literal meaning, its usage can subtly imply a hierarchy of importance or a comprehensive scope. For instance, in literary analysis, one might state: 'The novel explores themes of love dake de naku, it delves deeply into societal alienation.' Variations like ~dake de naku nō ni introduce a concessive nuance, while ~ni kagirazu offers a more formal alternative for 'not limited to'. Understanding the subtle interplay of these phrases is indicative of a high level of linguistic proficiency, enabling the nuanced expression of complex ideas and the appreciation of intricate argumentation.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Connects two ideas: 'not only X, but also Y'.
- Used after nouns, verbs (plain form), and adjectives (plain form).
- Often followed by 'mo' (also) for emphasis: 'X dake de naku, Y mo'.
- Versatile: used in daily conversation, writing, and formal settings.
Hey there! Let's dive into the super useful Japanese phrase ～だけでなく (~dake de naku). Think of it as your go-to connector when you want to say 'not only X, but also Y'. It's like building a bridge between two ideas, showing that both are important or happening. We often use it to add extra information or to highlight a second point that might be even more significant than the first. It's a fantastic way to add depth and complexity to your sentences, making your communication richer and more engaging.
Imagine you're describing someone's talents. You could say they are good at sports, だけでなく (dake de naku), they are also a brilliant artist. See how it smoothly links two different skills? This phrase helps you present a more complete picture, ensuring your listener or reader understands the full scope of what you're trying to convey. It’s a fundamental building block for expressing compound ideas in Japanese, so mastering it will really boost your fluency!
The phrase ~dake de naku is built from a few key components. Dake (だけ) means 'only' or 'just', indicating a limitation or specific focus. De (で) is a particle that, in this context, acts as a connector, often showing a state or means. And naku (なく) is the negative conjunctive form of the adjective nai (ない), meaning 'not'. So, literally, it's something like 'not just being X'. Over time, this construction evolved into the common conjunctive phrase we use today to mean 'not only... but also...'
The grammatical structure reflects a common pattern in Japanese where a limited statement is then expanded upon. The 'not only' part sets up an expectation, and the 'but also' part (often implied or stated with a following phrase like ~mo or ~ga) fulfills it. This way of expressing additive information has roots in classical Japanese grammar, where similar structures were used to connect clauses and ideas. It’s a testament to how language evolves to create more nuanced ways of expressing complex thoughts, allowing speakers to layer information effectively.
You'll find ~dake de naku used in a wide variety of situations, from casual conversations to more formal writing. It's incredibly versatile! The typical structure is: [Noun/Verb/Adjective Phrase] + dake de naku, [Second Noun/Verb/Adjective Phrase]. Often, the second part is followed by mo (も) or ga (が) for emphasis, like ~dake de naku, ~mo (not only X, but also Y too). For example, Kare wa yasashii dake de naku, atama mo ii (He is not only kind, but also smart).
When using it, remember that it connects two elements. The first element is usually a noun, verb (plain form), or adjective (plain form). The second element can be anything, but it's often something that adds to or expands upon the first. In formal writing or speeches, you might see the slightly more formal variation ~dake de naku followed by nō ni (〜だけでなく、〜のに) or ~ni kagirazu (〜に限らず). In everyday chat, ~dake de naku is perfectly natural. Think of it as a way to add more layers to your descriptions or arguments, making your points more robust and comprehensive.
While ~dake de naku itself is a standard phrase, it's often part of common expressions that convey a sense of 'more than just' or 'in addition to'.
- ~dake de naku, ~mo: This is the most common pairing, meaning 'not only X, but also Y (too)'. Example: Tanaka-san wa eigo ga hanaseru dake de naku, supekku mo jouzu desu. (Mr. Tanaka can not only speak English, but is also fluent in Spanish.)
- ~dake de naku nō ni: This adds a nuance of 'not only X, but also Y, and yet...' implying a contrast or unexpected outcome. Example: Kono resutoran wa oishii dake de naku nō ni, yasui desu. (This restaurant is not only delicious, but also cheap.)
- ~dake ni: While not directly meaning 'not only', this phrase implies 'because' or 'as expected', often used when the reason justifies the outcome. It's related in that it builds upon a premise. Example: Kore dake ni, ichi-jikan mo kakarimashita. (Because it was this much, it took even an hour.)
- ~ni kagirazu: This means 'not limited to X', often used in formal contexts. It's a close synonym for the additive sense. Example: Shiken wa gakusei ni kagirazu, dare demo uke raremasu. (The exam is not limited to students; anyone can take it.)
- ~ni todomaranai: Meaning 'not limited to' or 'not stopping at', this phrase extends the scope beyond the initial item. Example: Kanojo no shigoto wa kantan na shigoto ni todomaranai. (Her work is not limited to simple tasks.)
Grammar: ~dake de naku functions as a conjunction, linking two clauses or phrases. It typically follows a noun, verb (plain form), or adjective (plain form). The structure is often [Clause 1] + dake de naku, [Clause 2]. A very common pattern is [Clause 1] + dake de naku, [Clause 2] + mo, emphasizing that both parts are true. For example: Sakana ga suki na dake de naku, niku mo tabemasu. (I don't only like fish, I eat meat too.)
Pronunciation: The phrase is pronounced roughly as /da.ke.de.na.ku/. Let's break it down: 'da' (like 'dah'), 'ke' (like 'keh'), 'de' (like 'deh'), 'na' (like 'nah'), 'ku' (like 'koo', but the 'oo' is short and unstressed). The stress is relatively even across the syllables, without a strong emphasis on any single one. Native speakers often link the sounds smoothly. Try saying it slowly at first: da-ke-de-na-ku, then speed up until it flows naturally. It rhymes with words ending in '-naku', though finding perfect rhymes in Japanese can be tricky as it's syllable-based.
Fun Fact
The structure evolved from a more literal grammatical construction to a fixed conjunctive phrase.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'dak-eh-deh-nak'. The 'u' sound is short and unstressed.
Similar to UK, with a slightly more open 'ah' sound for 'da'.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing the final 'u' too strongly.
- Adding an unnecessary vowel sound between 'k' and 'd' in 'dake de'.
- Making the 'e' sound too long.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to understand in context, but requires recognizing the conjunctive function.
Requires correct placement and understanding of grammatical forms.
Natural flow requires practice, especially with common collocations.
Easily recognizable once the pattern is learned.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Plain Form Conjugation (Verbs & Adjectives)
食べる (taberu) + dake de naku; 綺麗だ (kirei da) → 綺麗(da) + dake de naku
Particles (も mo, が ga, に ni)
Often follows the second element: 〜だけでなく、〜も / 〜だけでなく、〜が
Conjunctions and Conjunctive Phrases
Connecting clauses and ideas smoothly.
Examples by Level
リンゴが好き、だけでなく、バナナも好きです。
Apple like, not only, banana also like.
Connects two things you like.
これはペン、だけでなく、鉛筆です。
This is pen, not only, pencil is.
Use with nouns to list items.
彼は学生、だけでなく、スポーツ選手です。
He is student, not only, sports player is.
Describes two roles someone has.
公園は楽しい、だけでなく、安全です。
Park is fun, not only, safe is.
Describes two qualities of a place.
私は猫が好き、だけでなく、犬も好きです。
I cat like, not only, dog also like.
Expressing liking for multiple animals.
この部屋は広い、だけでなく、明るいです。
This room is spacious, not only, bright is.
Describing two features of a room.
彼女は歌が上手、だけでなく、踊りも上手です。
She song is good, not only, dance also good is.
Listing two talents.
これは本、だけでなく、ノートです。
This is book, not only, notebook is.
Identifying two different objects.
彼は親切なだけでなく、とても賢いです。
He kind-hearted not only, very smart is.
Connects two adjectives describing a person.
このレストランは美味しいだけでなく、値段も手頃です。
This restaurant delicious not only, price also reasonable is.
Combining taste and price.
彼女は日本語を話せるだけでなく、英語も流暢です。
She Japanese can speak not only, English also fluent is.
Mentioning two languages someone knows.
この仕事は簡単ではないだけでなく、やりがいもあります。
This job easy not is not only, rewarding also is.
Connecting difficulty with reward.
彼はサッカーが上手なだけでなく、野球も得意です。
He soccer good not only, baseball also skilled is.
Listing two sports abilities.
この映画は感動的であるだけでなく、ユーモラスでもあります。
This movie moving is not only, humorous also is.
Describing two genres or tones.
公園は美しいだけでなく、静かでリラックスできます。
Park beautiful not only, quiet and relax can.
Combining visual beauty with atmosphere.
彼は医者であるだけでなく、作家でもあります。
He doctor is not only, writer also is.
Describing two professions.
この技術は革新的であるだけでなく、将来性も豊かです。
This technology innovative is not only, future potential also abundant is.
Connecting innovation with future prospects.
彼は単なる俳優であるだけでなく、優れた監督でもあります。
He mere actor is not only, excellent director also is.
Highlighting a second, more significant role.
その会議は議題が多岐にわたるだけでなく、活発な議論が交わされました。
That meeting topics diverse are not only, active discussion exchanged was.
Describing the scope and atmosphere of a meeting.
この製品はデザインが優れているだけでなく、機能性も高い。
This product design excellent is not only, functionality also high is.
Combining aesthetics with practicality.
彼女は語学に堪能なだけでなく、異文化理解にも深い造詣を持っています。
She languages proficient is not only, cross-cultural understanding also deep knowledge has.
Linking language skills with cultural competence.
この地域は観光資源が豊富なだけでなく、歴史的にも価値が高い。
This region tourism resources abundant is not only, historically also value high is.
Combining tourism appeal with historical significance.
彼はリーダーシップがあるだけでなく、チームをまとめる力にも長けています。
He leadership has not only, team unite ability also excels at.
Describing leadership qualities and team management skills.
この小説はストーリーが面白いだけでなく、登場人物の心理描写も秀逸です。
This novel story interesting is not only, characters' psychological depiction also excellent is.
Praising both plot and character development.
この政策は経済成長を促進するだけでなく、社会全体の福祉向上にも寄与するだろう。
This policy economic growth promote not only, society whole's welfare improvement also contribute will.
Connecting economic policy with social benefits.
彼のスピーチは示唆に富むだけでなく、聴衆の心を強く打つ感動的なものであった。
His speech insightful is not only, audience's hearts strongly strike moving one was.
Describing a speech's intellectual and emotional impact.
この研究は既存の理論を覆すだけでなく、新たな研究分野を開拓する可能性を秘めている。
This research existing theories overturn not only, new research fields pioneer potential holds.
Highlighting the disruptive and pioneering nature of research.
その芸術作品は視覚的な美しさを追求するだけでなく、深い哲学的問いを投げかけている。
That artwork visual beauty pursue not only, deep philosophical questions poses.
Combining aesthetic appeal with intellectual depth.
彼は単に才能があるだけでなく、驚異的な努力家であり、その成功は必然であった。
He simply talented is not only, astonishing hard worker is, and that success inevitable was.
Emphasizing both innate talent and immense effort.
このソフトウェアは操作が容易であるだけでなく、高度なカスタマイズ機能も備わっている。
This software operation easy is not only, advanced customization functions also equipped is.
Contrasting ease of use with powerful features.
彼女の小説は緻密なプロット構成だけでなく、登場人物の内面描写の巧みさにおいても高く評価されている。
Her novels intricate plot construction not only, characters' inner depiction skill also highly praised is.
Praising both structural complexity and psychological depth in literature.
この地域は豊かな自然環境を保全しているだけでなく、持続可能な観光開発にも積極的に取り組んでいる。
This region rich natural environment preserve not only, sustainable tourism development also actively tackling is.
Linking environmental conservation with responsible development.
その発見は科学界に衝撃を与えただけでなく、我々の世界観そのものを変容させる可能性を秘めている。
That discovery scientific community shock gave not only, our worldview itself transform potential holds.
Discussing the profound and world-altering implications of a discovery.
彼の芸術は、単に美的快楽を提供するだけでなく、社会に対する痛烈な風刺としても機能している。
His art, simply aesthetic pleasure provide not only, society towards scathing satire also functions.
Analyzing art as both aesthetically pleasing and socially critical.
この文学作品は、緻密な歴史考証に裏打ちされているだけでなく、普遍的な人間ドラマとしても読者の心を捉えて離さない。
This literary work, meticulous historical research backed is not only, universal human drama also reader's heart capture not let go.
Highlighting the synthesis of historical accuracy and universal human experience.
その企業の経営戦略は、短期的な利益追求に留まらず、長期的な社会的責任の遂行をも視野に入れている。
That company's management strategy, short-term profit pursuit not limited to, long-term social responsibility execution also view includes.
Examining a business strategy that balances profit with corporate social responsibility.
彼女の演技は、キャラクターの複雑な心理描写において卓越しているだけでなく、観客に深い共感を呼び起こす力を持っている。
Her acting, character's complex psychological depiction excels not only, audience deep empathy evoke power has.
Praising acting for both psychological depth and emotional impact.
この哲学体系は、認識論的な探求に留まらず、倫理的な考察をも包含する包括的なものである。
This philosophical system, epistemological inquiry not limited to, ethical considerations also includes comprehensive one is.
Describing a philosophical system that spans multiple domains.
その建築物は、革新的なデザインで注目を集めるだけでなく、環境負荷の低減にも最大限配慮されている。
That architecture, innovative design attention gather not only, environmental impact reduction also maximum consideration given.
Focusing on architectural innovation and ecological sustainability.
この改革案は、経済的な効率性を向上させるだけでなく、社会的な公平性の実現にも貢献すると期待されている。
This reform proposal, economic efficiency improve not only, social equity realization also contribute expected is.
Analyzing a reform's dual impact on economic efficiency and social equity.
その文学的遺産は、単に過去の記録に留まらず、現代社会における人間性の普遍的探求の触媒としても機能し続けている。
That literary heritage, simply past records not limited to, contemporary society's humanity universal exploration catalyst also functions continues.
Discussing a legacy's enduring relevance and catalytic role.
彼の芸術的アプローチは、視覚的言語の再定義に留まらず、鑑賞者の認識論的枠組みにまで挑戦を投げかける。
His artistic approach, visual language's redefinition not limited to, viewer's epistemological framework even challenge throws.
Analyzing an artistic approach that questions fundamental frameworks of perception.
この理論的枠組みは、既存のパラダイムを精緻化するに留まらず、学際的な統合を促す触媒としての役割をも担っている。
This theoretical framework, existing paradigms refine not limited to, interdisciplinary integration promote catalyst role also bears.
Describing a framework that refines paradigms and fosters interdisciplinary integration.
その歴史的出来事は、単なる政治的変遷の記録に留まらず、文化的なアイデンティティ形成における決定的な転換点であった。
That historical event, merely political transition's record not limited to, cultural identity formation decisive turning point was.
Interpreting a historical event's significance beyond politics to cultural identity.
彼女の作曲スタイルは、音楽的革新に留まらず、聴く者の感情的・精神的な深淵にまで響く普遍性を獲得している。
Her compositional style, musical innovation not limited to, listener's emotional and spiritual abyss even resonates universality acquired.
Examining a style that achieves universality by resonating with deep emotional and spiritual states.
この技術革新は、産業構造の変革に留まらず、社会全体のライフスタイルにまで影響を及ぼす潜在的可能性を秘めている。
This technological innovation, industrial structure's transformation not limited to, society whole's lifestyle even influence exert potential holds.
Assessing the transformative potential of innovation beyond industry to lifestyle.
その哲学的思索は、形而上学的な探求に留まらず、実践的な倫理観の構築にも不可欠な洞察を提供している。
That philosophical contemplation, metaphysical inquiry not limited to, practical ethics construction also essential insights provides.
Highlighting the link between metaphysical inquiry and practical ethical frameworks.
この批評的分析は、作品の表層的な解釈に留まらず、その背後にある文化的・社会的な文脈の解明にまで踏み込んでいる。
This critical analysis, work's superficial interpretation not limited to, its behind cultural and social contexts elucidation even delves.
Emphasizing an analysis that goes beyond surface interpretation to contextual understanding.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"～だけでなく、～も"
Not only X, but also Y (too). The most standard and common usage.
彼は親切なだけでなく、とても賢いです。
neutral"～だけでなく、～ばかりか"
Not only X, but even Y. Often implies Y is more surprising or significant.
彼は遅刻しただけでなく、ばかりか、会議の内容も理解していなかった。
neutral"～だけでなく、～うえに"
Not only X, but also Y (in addition). Used to add a further, often more important, point.
彼女は美しいだけでなく、うえに才能もあります。
formal"～だけでなく、～のに"
Not only X, but also Y, and yet... Often implies a contrast or unexpected outcome.
このレストランは美味しいだけでなく、値段も安いのに驚きました。
neutral"～のみならず"
A more formal version of 'not only... but also...'.
この問題は日本のみならず、世界全体に関わる。
formal"～に限らず"
Not limited to X; also includes Y. Broadens the scope.
このイベントは子供に限らず、大人も楽しめます。
neutral/formalEasily Confused
Both contain 'dake' and relate to quantity or scope.
'Dake' means 'only' or 'just', implying exclusivity. 'Dake de naku' means 'not only X, but also Y', implying inclusivity and addition.
りんごだけあります。(Ringo dake arimasu.) - I *only* have apples. / りんごだけでなく、バナナもあります。(Ringo dake de naku, banana mo arimasu.) - I have apples, *and also* bananas.
Both deal with limitations or specific items.
'Shika ~ nai' means 'only X (and nothing else)', often with a sense of scarcity or finality. 'Dake de naku' means 'not only X, but also Y', adding to what is present.
これしかありません。(Kore shika arimasen.) - I *only* have this (implying not much else). / これだけでなく、あれもあります。(Kore dake de naku, are mo arimasu.) - Not only this, but also that.
Both are conjunctive phrases used for addition.
'Bakari ka' often implies that the second item (Y) is more surprising or significant than the first (X), carrying a nuance of 'not only X, but even Y'. 'Dake de naku' is more neutral in comparing the two items.
彼は遅刻したばかりか、何も持ってこなかった。(Kare wa chikoku shita bakari ka, nani mo motte konakatta.) - He not only was late, but he even brought nothing. / 彼は遅刻しただけでなく、会議の内容も理解していなかった。(Kare wa chikoku shita dake de naku, kaigi no naiyou mo rikai shite inakatta.) - He not only was late, but he also didn't understand the meeting content.
Both are used to add information or connect clauses.
'Ue ni' means 'in addition to', 'on top of', often used to add a further point that enhances or complements the previous one. 'Dake de naku' specifically means 'not only... but also...'. While similar, 'ue ni' can sometimes feel more like listing distinct points.
彼女は美しい。うえに、才能もある。(Kanojo wa utsukushii. Ue ni, sainou mo aru.) - She is beautiful. In addition, she has talent. / 彼女は美しいだけでなく、才能もある。(Kanojo wa utsukushii dake de naku, sainou mo aru.) - She is not only beautiful, but also talented.
Sentence Patterns
Noun + dake de naku
これは本だけでなく、地図です。
Verb (plain) + dake de naku
彼は走るだけでなく、泳ぐこともできます。
Adjective (plain) + dake de naku
この料理は辛いだけでなく、甘い味もします。
Clause 1 + dake de naku, Clause 2 + mo
彼は親切なだけでなく、賢いもです。
Clause 1 + dake de naku, Clause 2 + nō ni
この映画は面白いだけでなく、感動的なのに、あまり話題になりませんでした。
Word Family
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
The phrase inherently means 'not *only* X', implying there is a Y to follow.
Putting 'mo' after X or in the middle can sound unnatural or change the meaning.
For contrast, use words like 'shikashi', 'ga', or 'demo'.
For example, 'taberu dake de naku' (eat), not 'tabemasu dake de naku'.
The addition of 'de naku' changes the meaning from exclusive to inclusive.
Tips
Memory Palace Trick
Visualize a scale. On one side, put 'ONLY' (dake). Then, add a plus sign (+) and 'NOT' (de naku) to show it's not just one side, but more is added.
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for it when people are describing someone's multiple skills, listing features of a product, or explaining complex situations with multiple contributing factors.
Cultural Insight
Japanese communication often values completeness and layering of information. Phrases like 'dake de naku' help achieve this by presenting a fuller picture.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember the pattern: [Thing 1] + dake de naku, [Thing 2] + mo. This structure is extremely common and covers many situations.
Say It Right
Practice saying 'dake de naku' smoothly, linking the syllables without strong pauses. Focus on the short 'u' at the end.
Don't Make This Mistake
Avoid using 'dake de naku' to introduce just one idea. It requires at least two elements to connect.
Did You Know?
The phrase evolved from a more literal grammatical construction, showing how language adapts to express complex ideas more efficiently.
Study Smart
Create flashcards with 'dake de naku' on one side and 'not only... but also...' on the other. Add example sentences on the back.
Adding Emphasis
Follow 'dake de naku' with 'mo' (e.g., 'X dake de naku, Y mo') to strongly emphasize that both X and Y are true.
Verb/Adjective Forms
Ensure you use the plain form (dictionary form for verbs, plain form for adjectives) before 'dake de naku'. For example, 'taberu' not 'tabemasu'.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'DAKE' (just) 'DE' (and) 'NAKU' (not). So, 'Just this, and not only this...'. It's a bit of a stretch, but the 'dake' part helps!
Visual Association
Imagine two boxes. One box has a 'ONLY' sign ('dake'). Then you add another box with a '+' sign and say 'not only that one'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try describing your favorite foods using 'dake de naku'. For example, 'I like ramen dake de naku, sushi mo suki desu.'
Word Origin
Japanese
Original meaning: Literally 'not being only'.
Cultural Context
None.
In English, we often use 'not only... but also...' or 'as well as'. The Japanese phrase serves a similar function of additive connection.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Describing a person's abilities or qualities
- 彼は親切なだけでなく、賢い。
- 彼女は歌が上手なだけでなく、ダンスも得意です。
- この選手は速いだけでなく、スタミナもあります。
Listing features or benefits of a product/service
- このスマートフォンは高性能なだけでなく、デザインも優れています。
- このレストランは美味しいだけでなく、値段も手頃です。
- このサービスは便利であるだけでなく、安全です。
Explaining complex situations or issues
- この問題は複雑なだけでなく、解決が難しい。
- この政策は経済成長だけでなく、環境保護にも配慮しています。
- 彼のスピーチは示唆に富むだけでなく、感動的でした。
Comparing or contrasting (while emphasizing addition)
- この本は子供だけでなく、大人にも人気があります。
- このイベントは学生だけでなく、一般の人々も参加できます。
- 彼の意見は正しいだけでなく、実現可能でもあります。
Conversation Starters
"What's something you're good at, not only X but also Y?"
"Tell me about a place that's beautiful, not only X but also Y."
"What's a food you like that's not only X but also Y?"
"Can you think of a movie that's not only exciting but also thought-provoking?"
"Describe a skill you have that's not only useful but also enjoyable to practice."
Journal Prompts
Write about a person you admire. What qualities do they possess, not only X but also Y?
Describe your dream job. What aspects make it appealing, not only X but also Y?
Think about a recent challenge you faced. How did you overcome it, not only through X but also through Y?
Reflect on a place you've visited. What made it special, not only its scenery but also its atmosphere?
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions'Dake' means 'only' or 'just', implying exclusivity (e.g., 'I only have apples'). 'Dake de naku' means 'not only X, but also Y', implying inclusivity and addition (e.g., 'I have apples, and also bananas').
Use 'dake de naku, ~mo' when you want to emphasize that both the first item (X) and the second item (Y) are true or applicable. The 'mo' adds a sense of 'also' or 'too' to the second item.
Yes, you can use it after verbs in their plain form (dictionary form) and after adjectives (plain form for i-adjectives, and with 'na' for na-adjectives).
It's generally considered neutral, suitable for most situations. For more formal contexts, 'nomi narazu' or 'ni kagirazu' might be preferred.
Typically, another noun, verb phrase, or adjective phrase follows, often connected with particles like 'mo' (also) or 'nō ni' (and yet).
Yes, common alternatives include 'nomi narazu' (formal), 'ni kagirazu' (not limited to), and 'bakari ka' (not only X, but even Y).
It's pronounced roughly 'dah-keh-deh-nah-koo', with relatively even stress on each syllable.
No, 'dake de naku' is used for additive or parallel ideas. For contrasting ideas, you would use conjunctions like 'shikashi' (however) or 'ga' (but).
Test Yourself
私は犬が好き、___、猫も好きです。
We need to connect two things the speaker likes, so 'dake de naku' (not only) is the correct connector.
「彼は医者であるだけでなく、作家でもある。」この文の意味は？
The phrase 'dake de naku' means 'not only X, but also Y', indicating both roles.
「この本は面白いだけでなく、勉強になります。」という文は、本が面白いことと、役に立つことの両方を伝えています。
The phrase 'dake de naku' connects two positive attributes: being interesting and being educational.
Word
Meaning
These examples show how 'dake de naku' connects two descriptive qualities.
The correct order is 'Kare wa shinsetsu da dake de naku, kashikoi mo.' (He is not only kind, but also smart.)
この技術は革新的である___、将来性も豊かです。
While 'nomi narazu' and 'ue ni' are possible synonyms in formal contexts, 'dake de naku' is the most common and natural fit here for connecting innovation and future potential.
「この文学作品は、緻密な歴史考証に裏打ちされているだけでなく、普遍的な人間ドラマとしても読者の心を捉えて離さない。」この文で「だけでなく」が示唆することは？
The phrase connects historical accuracy (first point) with its ability to resonate as a universal human drama (second, often more emphasized point).
その発見は科学界に衝撃を与えただけでなく、我々の世界観そのものを___。
The phrase 'dake de naku' implies an expansion or greater impact, making 'potential to transform our worldview' the most fitting continuation.
Score: /8
Summary
Mastering '～だけでなく' unlocks the ability to express complex ideas by linking multiple points, enriching your Japanese communication.
- Connects two ideas: 'not only X, but also Y'.
- Used after nouns, verbs (plain form), and adjectives (plain form).
- Often followed by 'mo' (also) for emphasis: 'X dake de naku, Y mo'.
- Versatile: used in daily conversation, writing, and formal settings.
Memory Palace Trick
Visualize a scale. On one side, put 'ONLY' (dake). Then, add a plus sign (+) and 'NOT' (de naku) to show it's not just one side, but more is added.
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for it when people are describing someone's multiple skills, listing features of a product, or explaining complex situations with multiple contributing factors.
Cultural Insight
Japanese communication often values completeness and layering of information. Phrases like 'dake de naku' help achieve this by presenting a fuller picture.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember the pattern: [Thing 1] + dake de naku, [Thing 2] + mo. This structure is extremely common and covers many situations.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More general words
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
