A1 Conjunctions & Connectors 13 min read Easy

Stacking Problems: Not only... but also (不但...而且)

Stack problems using 不但...而且... to show how a situation is getting even worse or more complex.

Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Use {不但|bùdàn} (not only) and {而且|érqiě} (but also) to link two positive traits or actions about the same subject.

  • Place {不但|bùdàn} before the first point: {他不但聪明|tā bùdàn cōngmíng}.
  • Place {而且|érqiě} before the second point: {而且很努力|érqiě hěn nǔlì}.
  • Ensure both parts share the same subject or follow a logical progression.
Subject + 不但 + [Adjective/Verb] + 而且 + [Adjective/Verb]

Overview

In Chinese, expressing a sequence of related facts or qualities requires more than a simple connector. The structure 不但...而且... (bùdàn...érqiě...), equivalent to the English "not only... but also...", serves a crucial linguistic function: it connects two clauses to build an argument, add emphasis, or show a progression of thought.

It signals to the listener that the second piece of information adds to, and often intensifies, the first. While it can be used for both positive and negative statements, its power lies in creating a sense of escalation.

At the A1 level, mastering this pattern is a significant step toward more natural and expressive communication. It allows you to move beyond simple, declarative sentences and construct more complex, persuasive statements. For example, instead of just saying a restaurant is bad, you can explain that 这家餐厅不但服务很差... (This restaurant not only has bad service...).

Your listener instinctively knows more is coming. This structure provides a grammatical framework for layering information, making your speech more rhythmic and your reasoning clearer. It is not merely a stylistic choice; it is a fundamental tool for logical connection between ideas, used ubiquitiously in both spoken and written Chinese.

Understanding 不但...而且... is to understand that Chinese grammar often prioritizes logical flow and the relationship between clauses. Unlike (hé), which primarily links nouns or nominal phrases, 不但...而且... links entire predicates or clauses, showing a cumulative relationship. The first clause with 不但 sets the stage, and the second clause with 而且 delivers the reinforcing point.

For instance, 他不但会唱歌,而且跳舞也很好 (Tā bùdàn huì chànggē, érqiě tiàowǔ yě hěn hǎo) doesn't just list two skills; it implies his talents are more extensive than one might first assume.

How This Grammar Works

The 不但...而且... pattern operates on a principle of additive reinforcement. The information in the 而且 clause must be in logical harmony with the 不但 clause. This means both clauses should share the same general sentiment—both positive, both negative, both praiseworthy, both problematic.
The structure creates a crescendo of sorts, where the second point builds upon the first. Think of it as presenting evidence: the first fact is the foundation, and the second is the clincher.
One of the most critical rules governing this structure is subject placement. The position of the subject(s) changes the meaning and focus of the sentence. There are two primary configurations you must master.
1. Single Subject for Both Clauses:
If the same subject is responsible for both actions or possesses both qualities, the subject is placed at the very beginning of the sentence, before 不但. This is the most common and fundamental usage of the pattern. The structure emphasizes the multiple facets of a single entity.
  • Formula: Subject + 不但 + Predicate 1, 而且 + Predicate 2.
  • Example: 熊猫不但很可爱,而且很懒。 (Xióngmāo bùdàn hěn kě'ài, érqiě hěn lǎn.) — The panda is the subject for both being cute and being lazy.
2. Different Subjects for Each Clause:
If there are two different subjects performing parallel actions or sharing a similar quality, the structure changes. 不但 comes before the first subject, and 而且 comes before the second subject. This pattern is used to draw a parallel or comparison between two distinct entities.
  • Formula: 不但 + Subject 1 + Predicate, 而且 + Subject 2 + Predicate.
  • Example: 不但我会说中文,而且我妹妹也会说。 (Bùdàn wǒ huì shuō Zhōngwén, érqiě wǒ mèimei yě huì shuō.) — Here, two different subjects ('I' and 'my younger sister') share the same predicate ('can speak Chinese'). The (yě) is often added in the second clause for emphasis, meaning 'also'.
Understanding this subject placement rule is non-negotiable for correct usage. Placing the subject incorrectly can make the sentence ungrammatical or confusing. The underlying logic is that whatever precedes 不但 is the shared topic of the entire sentence.
If only the predicates are different, the shared topic is the subject. If the subjects are different, the shared topic is the general situation or predicate being discussed.

Formation Pattern

1
To correctly form sentences with 不但...而且..., you must be precise about the placement of the subject and the two clauses. Below are the detailed structures and examples.
2
Pattern 1: Single Subject
3
This is the most common pattern, used when one subject has two attributes or performs two actions. The subject begins the sentence.
4
Structure: Subject + 不但 + Predicate 1, 而且 + Predicate 2
5
The predicate can be an adjective, a verb, or a verb phrase.
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| Predicate Type | Example Sentence | Pinyin | Translation |
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|---|---|---|---|
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| Adjective | 这个西瓜不但大,而且很甜。 | Zhège xīguā bùdàn dà, érqiě hěn tián. | This watermelon is not only big, but also very sweet. |
9
| Verb Phrase | 他不但喜欢看书,而且喜欢运动。 | Tā bùdàn xǐhuān kànshū, érqiě xǐhuān yùndòng. | He not only likes to read books, but also likes to exercise. |
10
| Verb | 我的老板不但会说英语,而且会说日语。 | Wǒ de lǎobǎn bùdàn huì shuō Yīngyǔ, érqiě huì shuō Rìyǔ. | My boss can not only speak English, but can also speak Japanese. |
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Pattern 2: Different Subjects
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This pattern is used to present two subjects that share a common predicate or situation. The conjunction 不但 must precede the first subject.
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Structure: 不但 + Subject 1 + Predicate, 而且 + Subject 2 + (也/还) + Predicate
14
The addition of (yě) or (hái) in the second clause is extremely common and natural, reinforcing the 'also' meaning.
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| Example Sentence | Pinyin | Translation |
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|---|---|---|
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| 不但学生们要去,而且老师们也要去。 | Bùdàn xuéshēngmen yào qù, érqiě lǎoshīmen yě yào qù. | Not only do the students have to go, but the teachers also have to go. |
18
| 不但北方的冬天很冷,而且南方的冬天也很冷。 | Bùdàn běifāng de dōngtiān hěn lěng, érqiě nánfāng de dōngtiān yě hěn lěng. | Not only is winter in the north very cold, but winter in the south is also very cold. |
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| 不但你做错了,而且我也做错了。 | Bùdàn nǐ zuò cuò le, érqiě wǒ yě zuò cuò le. | Not only were you wrong, but I was also wrong. |
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Variations and Emphasis
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For added emphasis, (hái, also/even) or (yě, also) can be inserted after 而且 in single-subject patterns as well. This is very common in spoken Chinese.
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他不但很聪明,而且还很努力。 (Tā bùdàn hěn cōngmíng, érqiě hái hěn nǔlì.) - He is not only very smart, but also works very hard.

When To Use It

You should use 不但...而且... any time your communication goal is to build a case by adding reinforcing information. It’s a versatile tool applicable in a wide range of contexts, from casual complaints to formal arguments.
1. To Add Emphasis and Intensity:
When a single adjective or verb feels insufficient, use this pattern to stack qualities and strengthen your point. It elevates a simple observation into a more compelling statement. For example, simply saying 那家酒店很贵 (That hotel is expensive) is a statement of fact.
But saying 那家酒店不但很贵,而且服务也很糟糕 (That hotel is not only expensive, but its service is also terrible) turns it into a strong warning or complaint.
2. To Build a Persuasive Argument:
In discussions, debates, or even in writing a review, layering your reasons makes your position more convincing. By presenting multiple points in a logical progression, you guide your audience to your conclusion.
  • Example: 我推荐这本书,因为它不但内容有趣,而且还能教你很多新知识。 (Wǒ tuījiàn zhè běn shū, yīnwèi tā bùdàn nèiróng yǒuqù, érqiě hái néng jiāo nǐ hěn duō xīn zhīshì.) — You're not just saying the book is good; you're providing two distinct, reinforcing reasons why.
3. To Describe People or Things with Nuance:
This pattern is perfect for creating a more complete picture of a person, place, or object. You can stack positive attributes to praise someone or stack negative ones to criticize.
  • Positive Example: 我的新同事不但工作能力强,而且性格也很好。 (Wǒ de xīn tóngshì bùdàn gōngzuò nénglì qiáng, érqiě xìnggé yě hěn hǎo.) - My new colleague not only is competent at work, but also has a great personality.
  • Negative Example: 这个手机不但电池不耐用,而且经常死机。 (Zhège shǒujī bùdàn diànchí bù nàiyòng, érqiě jīngcháng sǐjī.) - This phone not only has a poor battery life, but it also frequently freezes.
4. In Formal and Informal Settings:
The structure itself is neutral in formality. Its tone is dictated by the vocabulary used within the clauses. You will hear it in casual chats with friends and see it in formal business proposals. This versatility makes it an essential structure to master early in your learning journey.

Common Mistakes

Learners frequently make a few predictable errors with this structure. Avoiding them is key to using the pattern correctly and sounding natural.
Mistake 1: Using (hé) to Connect Clauses
This is perhaps the most common error. In English, 'and' can connect full clauses, but in Chinese, (hé) is almost exclusively used to connect nouns or noun phrases. It cannot connect two adjectival or verbal clauses.
  • Incorrect: 这道菜很辣和很咸。 (Zhè dào cài hěn là hé hěn xián.)
  • Correct: 这道菜不但很辣,而且很咸。 (Zhè dào cài bùdàn hěn là, érqiě hěn xián.)
  • Also Correct: 这道菜又辣又咸。 (Zhè dào cài yòu là yòu xián.) — Note that 又...又... is for parallel states, while 不但...而且... implies an addition or escalation.
Mistake 2: Incorrect Subject Placement
As detailed in 'How This Grammar Works', failing to move the subject after 不但 when the subjects of the two clauses are different is a critical grammatical error.
  • Scenario: You and your friend are both late.
  • Incorrect: 我不但迟到了,而且你'也'迟到了。 (Wǒ bùdàn chídào le, érqiě nǐ yě chídào le.)
  • Correct: 不但我迟到了,而且你也迟到了。 (Bùdàn wǒ chídào le, érqiě nǐ yě chídào le.)
Remember the rule: If the subjects differ, they must follow 不但 and 而且 respectively.
Mistake 3: Logical Contradiction
The two clauses must reinforce each other. While grammatically you can connect a positive and negative statement, it sounds illogical and confusing unless there's a very specific, ironic context.
  • Logically Weird: 他不但很帅,而且很懒。 (Tā bùdàn hěn shuài, érqiě hěn lǎn.) - He is not only handsome, but also lazy. This is odd because 'handsome' is positive and 'lazy' is negative. A listener would be confused about whether you are praising or criticizing him. The sentence implies that being lazy is an additional, noteworthy fact on top of being handsome, but the connection is unclear.
Mistake 4: Leaving the Structure Incomplete
不但 creates a grammatical expectation. You cannot use it without a follow-up conjunction like 而且, , or . It is a paired connector (关联词).
  • Incorrect: 他不但会说中文。 (Tā bùdàn huì shuō Zhōngwén.) - This sentence is a fragment. It's like saying "Not only does he speak Chinese..." and then walking away. The listener is left waiting for the second piece of information.
  • Correct: 他不但会说中文,而且汉字也写得很好。 (Tā bùdàn huì shuō Zhōngwén, érqiě Hànzì yě xiě de hěn hǎo.)

Real Conversations

This pattern is not just for textbooks. Here is how you will encounter 不但...而且... in authentic, everyday situations.

| Context | Example Dialogue | Pinyin & Translation | Analysis |

|---|---|---|---|

| Complaining via text message | A: 昨天新开的那家奶茶店怎么样? (Zuótiān xīn kāi de nà jiā nǎichá diàn zěnmeyàng?) B: 别提了,不但等了半个小时,而且味道还很奇怪。 | B: Bié tí le, bùdàn děng le bàn ge xiǎoshí, érqiě wèidào hái hěn qíguài. (Don't even mention it. Not only did I wait for half an hour, but the flavor was also weird.) | A classic negative review. is added after 而且 for extra emphasis on the second, more crucial point (the bad taste). |

| Recommending a TV show | A: 最近有什么好看的剧吗? (Zuìjìn yǒu shénme hǎokàn de jù ma?) B: 你去看《三体》啊!不但特效做得好,而且故事也很有深度。 | B: Nǐ qù kàn "Sān Tǐ" a! Bùdàn tèxiào zuò de hǎo, érqiě gùshì yě hěn yǒu shēndù. (You should watch 'The Three-Body Problem'! Not only are the special effects well done, but the story also has a lot of depth.) | This stacks two positive attributes to make a strong recommendation. The in the second clause is very natural. |

| Comparing cities during travel planning | 我更喜欢上海,因为不但有很多现代化的建筑,而且也有很多历史悠久的地方。 | Wǒ gèng xǐhuān Shànghǎi, yīnwèi bùdàn yǒu hěn duō xiàndàihuà de jiànzhù, érqiě yěyǒu hěn duō lìshǐ yōujiǔ de dìfāng. (I prefer Shanghai because not only does it have many modern buildings, but it also has many places with long history.) | This example shows how the pattern can connect two seemingly different but complementary qualities (modern and historical) to form a cohesive opinion. |

| Formal work context | 这个项目不但能帮我们进入新市场,而且还能提升我们的品牌形象。 | Zhège xiàngmù bùdàn néng bāng wǒmen jìnrù xīn shìchǎng, érqiě hái néng tíshēng wǒmen de pǐnpái xíngxiàng. (This project can not only help us enter a new market, but it can also enhance our brand image.) | A standard, persuasive sentence in a business context. It presents two distinct benefits to justify a decision. |

Quick FAQ

Q: Can I really only use this for things with the same 'vibe'?

Mostly, yes. The core function is reinforcement. However, in advanced or ironic usage, you might see a clash. For example: 他不但很有钱,而且很小气 (Tā bùdàn hěn yǒuqián, érqiě hěn xiǎoqì - He's not only rich, but also stingy). Here, being stingy is presented as a surprising and negative addition to being rich. For A1 learners, it's best to stick to the rule of matching sentiments.

Q: What is the difference between 不但...而且... and 不仅...而且...?

They have the same meaning and grammatical function. 不仅 (bùjǐn) is considered slightly more formal and is more common in written Chinese than in casual conversation. As a beginner, you can treat them as interchangeable, but using 不但 (bùdàn) is always a safe choice for spoken Chinese.

Q: How is this pattern different from 又...又... (yòu...yòu...)?

This is a crucial distinction. 又...又... connects two parallel adjectives or verbs that describe a single subject's state at the same time. It's a static description. Example: 咖啡又香又热 (The coffee is both fragrant and hot). 不但...而且... connects two clauses, showing a progression or addition of information. Example: 这杯咖啡不但很香,而且是免费的 (This coffee not only smells great, but it's also free). The second fact adds a new layer of information.

Q: Can I just use 而且 by itself?

Yes. 而且 is a standalone conjunction meaning "furthermore" or "in addition." You can use it to connect a second sentence or clause without the 不但 setup. Example: 我很累,而且我还没吃饭 (Wǒ hěn lèi, érqiě wǒ hái méi chīfàn - I'm very tired, and furthermore, I haven't eaten yet). The full 不但...而且... structure is more emphatic and formally introduces the two-part idea.

Q: What if I need to list three or more things?

You can extend the pattern. A common way is to use 不但...而且...还... or even 不但...而且...甚至....

  • Example: 他不但会说中文,而且会说英文,甚至还会说一点西班牙语。 (Tā bùdàn huì shuō Zhōngwén, érqiě huì shuō Yīngwén, shènzhì hái huì shuō yīdiǎn Xībānyáyǔ.) - He can not only speak Chinese and English, but he can even speak a little Spanish. 甚至 (shènzhì) means 'even' and introduces a more surprising or extreme point.
Q: Do I always have to use a comma?

In formal writing, a comma is required between the two clauses to separate them clearly. In informal communication like texting, the comma is often omitted. When speaking, the comma is represented by a natural pause, which adds rhetorical weight to the 而且 clause that follows.

Basic Sentence Construction

Part 1 Subject Part 2 Part 3 Part 4
不但
很聪明
而且
很努力
不但
这儿
很冷
而且
风很大
不但
想去
而且
必须去
不但
好吃
而且
便宜
不但
有用
而且
有趣
不但
会说
而且
会写

Common Variations

Structure Usage
不但...而且
Standard
不仅...而且
More formal
不但...还
Common in speech
不但...也
Common in speech

Meanings

This structure is used to indicate that a subject possesses two or more qualities or performs multiple actions, emphasizing the second point as an addition.

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Additive qualities

Adding a second positive attribute to a subject.

“{这件衣服不但好看,而且很便宜。|Zhè jiàn yīfu bùdàn hǎokàn, érqiě hěn piányi.}”

“{他不但会说中文,而且会说英文。|Tā bùdàn huì shuō Zhōngwén, érqiě huì shuō Yīngwén.}”

Reference Table

Reference table for Stacking Problems: Not only... but also (不但...而且)
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
Subj + 不但 + A + 而且 + B
他不但聪明,而且努力。
Verb focus
Subj + 不但 + Verb1 + 而且 + Verb2
我不但想吃,而且想买。
Adjective focus
Subj + 不但 + Adj1 + 而且 + Adj2
这儿不但冷,而且干。
Different subjects
不但 + Subj1 + V1, 而且 + Subj2 + V2
不但他去,我也去。
Negative
Subj + 不但 + 不 + V1, 而且 + 不 + V2
他不但不吃,而且不喝。
Question
Subj + 不但 + A + 而且 + B, 是吗?
他不但聪明,而且努力,是吗?

Formality Spectrum

Formal
他不仅聪明,而且勤奋。

他不仅聪明,而且勤奋。 (Describing a colleague)

Neutral
他不但聪明,而且努力。

他不但聪明,而且努力。 (Describing a colleague)

Informal
他聪明,而且还很努力。

他聪明,而且还很努力。 (Describing a colleague)

Slang
他挺聪明的,而且超努力。

他挺聪明的,而且超努力。 (Describing a colleague)

The 'Not Only... But Also' Bridge

不但...而且

Usage

  • Adding traits Adding traits
  • Adding actions Adding actions

Examples by Level

1

{他不但高,而且帅。|Tā bùdàn gāo, érqiě shuài.}

He is not only tall, but also handsome.

2

{这儿不但冷,而且风很大。|Zhèr bùdàn lěng, érqiě fēng hěn dà.}

It's not only cold here, but also very windy.

3

{我不但会说中文,而且会写。|Wǒ bùdàn huì shuō Zhōngwén, érqiě huì xiě.}

I can not only speak Chinese, but also write it.

4

{水果不但新鲜,而且便宜。|Shuǐguǒ bùdàn xīnxiān, érqiě piányi.}

The fruit is not only fresh, but also cheap.

1

{老师不但教我们语法,而且教我们文化。|Lǎoshī bùdàn jiāo wǒmen yǔfǎ, érqiě jiāo wǒmen wénhuà.}

The teacher not only teaches us grammar, but also culture.

2

{这家餐厅不但菜好吃,而且服务很好。|Zhè jiā cāntīng bùdàn cài hǎochī, érqiě fúwù hěn hǎo.}

This restaurant's food is not only delicious, but the service is great.

3

{他不但完成了工作,而且做得很好。|Tā bùdàn wánchéngle gōngzuò, érqiě zuò de hěn hǎo.}

He not only finished the work, but did it well.

4

{学习中文不但有趣,而且很有用。|Xuéxí Zhōngwén bùdàn yǒuqù, érqiě hěn yǒuyòng.}

Learning Chinese is not only fun, but also useful.

1

{这个计划不但节省时间,而且降低了成本。|Zhège jìhuà bùdàn jiěshěng shíjiān, érqiě jiàngdīle chéngběn.}

This plan not only saves time, but also reduces costs.

2

{她不但有丰富的经验,而且有很强的领导力。|Tā bùdàn yǒu fēngfù de jīngyàn, érqiě yǒu hěn qiáng de lǐngdǎolì.}

She not only has rich experience, but also strong leadership.

3

{运动不但能增强体质,而且能缓解压力。|Yùndòng bùdàn néng zēngqiáng tǐzhì, érqiě néng huǎnjiě yālì.}

Exercise not only strengthens the body, but also relieves stress.

4

{这本小说不但情节吸引人,而且语言优美。|Zhè běn xiǎoshuō bùdàn qíngjié xīyǐn rén, érqiě yǔyán yōuměi.}

This novel not only has an engaging plot, but also beautiful language.

1

{该政策不但促进了经济增长,而且改善了民生。|Gāi zhèngcè bùdàn cùjìnle jīngjì zēngzhǎng, érqiě gǎishànle mínshēng.}

The policy not only promoted economic growth, but also improved people's livelihoods.

2

{这种技术不但提高了效率,而且减少了错误。|Zhè zhǒng jìshù bùdàn tígāole xiàolǜ, érqiě jiǎnshǎole cuòwù.}

This technology not only increased efficiency, but also reduced errors.

3

{他不但精通多国语言,而且对历史有深刻见解。|Tā bùdàn jīngtōng duō guó yǔyán, érqiě duì lìshǐ yǒu shēnkè jiàn jiànjiě.}

He is not only fluent in many languages, but also has deep insights into history.

4

{这个方案不但具有创新性,而且非常实用。|Zhège fāng'àn bùdàn jùyǒu chuàngxīnxìng, érqiě fēicháng shíyòng.}

This proposal is not only innovative, but also very practical.

1

{不仅...而且... (formal variant) 不仅在学术界,在工业界也产生了深远影响。|Bùjǐn zài xuéshùjiè, zài gōngyèjiè yě chǎnshēngle shēnyuǎn yǐngxiǎng.}

It has had a profound impact not only in academia but also in the industry.

2

{此举不但彰显了其决心,而且巩固了其地位。|Cǐ jǔ bùdàn zhāngxiǎnle qí juéxīn, érqiě gǒnggùle qí dìwèi.}

This move not only demonstrated his determination but also consolidated his position.

3

{该研究不但填补了空白,而且提出了新理论。|Gāi yánjiū bùdàn tiánbǔle kòngbái, érqiě tíchūle xīn lǐlùn.}

The study not only filled the gap but also proposed a new theory.

4

{他不但才华横溢,而且虚心好学。|Tā bùdàn cáihuá héngyì, érqiě xūxīn hàoxué.}

He is not only exceptionally talented but also humble and eager to learn.

1

{此言不但道出了真谛,而且发人深省。|Cǐ yán bùdàn dàochūle zhēndì, érqiě fārénshēnxǐng.}

These words not only revealed the truth but also gave much food for thought.

2

{不仅...而且... 既...又... (interchangeable nuance) 不仅见证了历史,而且书写了历史。|Bùjǐn jiànzhèngle lìshǐ, érqiě shūxiěle lìshǐ.}

It not only witnessed history but also wrote it.

3

{此方案不但兼顾了长远利益,而且解决了燃眉之急。|Cǐ fāng'àn bùdàn jiāngùle chángyuǎn lìyì, érqiě jiějuéle ránméizhījí.}

This plan not only considered long-term interests but also solved the urgent problem.

4

{其作品不但具有艺术价值,而且蕴含深厚哲理。|Qí zuòpǐn bùdàn jùyǒu yìshù jiàzhí, érqiě yùnhán shēnhòu zhélǐ.}

His works not only have artistic value but also contain profound philosophy.

Easily Confused

Stacking Problems: Not only... but also (不但...而且) vs 不但...而且 vs 虽然...但是

Both link two clauses, but one adds info while the other contrasts.

Stacking Problems: Not only... but also (不但...而且) vs 不但...而且 vs 不仅...也

They are very similar, but 不仅 is slightly more formal.

Stacking Problems: Not only... but also (不但...而且) vs 而且 vs 并且

Both mean 'and/furthermore'.

Common Mistakes

他不但聪明,努力。

他不但聪明,而且努力。

Missing the connector '而且'.

不但他聪明,他而且努力。

他不但聪明,而且努力。

Subject placement error.

他聪明,而且努力。

他不但聪明,而且努力。

Missing the '不但' part.

不但他聪明,而且他努力。

不但他聪明,而且努力。

Redundant subject.

他不但聪明,而且很坏。

他虽然聪明,但是很坏。

Using additive for contrast.

不但他会说,而且我会说。

不但他会说,我也(会)说。

Need to use '也' when subjects differ.

不但他聪明,而且他也是好人。

他不但聪明,而且是个好人。

Structure flow.

不但他不仅聪明,而且努力。

他不仅聪明,而且努力。

Using both '不但' and '不仅' together.

他不但聪明,而且他努力的。

他不但聪明,而且努力。

Unnecessary '的'.

不但聪明,而且他努力。

不但聪明,而且努力。

Subject consistency.

不但他聪明,而且他努力,甚至他很棒。

他不但聪明,而且努力,甚至很棒。

Overusing connectors.

不但聪明,而且努力,但是他很懒。

虽然他聪明且努力,但是很懒。

Mixing additive and contrastive.

不但他聪明,而且他努力的。

他不但聪明,而且努力。

Grammar precision.

Sentence Patterns

他不但___,而且___。

这儿不但___,而且___。

学习中文不但___,而且___。

该项目不但___,而且___。

Real World Usage

Social Media constant

这儿的风景不但美,而且人很好!

Texting very common

我不仅到了,而且还买了咖啡。

Job Interview common

我不仅有经验,而且有团队精神。

Ordering Food occasional

这个菜不但辣,而且很新鲜。

Travel Blog common

这家酒店不但便宜,而且位置很好。

Academic Presentation common

该研究不仅填补了空白,而且具有实用价值。

💡

Keep it balanced

Try to make the two parts of the sentence similar in length and structure.
⚠️

Don't skip 而且

The second part is just as important as the first. Always include it.
🎯

Use 也 for variety

In speech, you can replace 而且 with 也 for a more natural flow.
💬

Formal vs Informal

Use 不仅 in writing and 不但 in speech for the best effect.

Smart Tips

Use this to sound more professional by stacking positive traits.

他很聪明。他很努力。 他不但聪明,而且努力。

Use this to give a balanced opinion.

菜很好吃。服务很好。 这家餐厅的菜不但好吃,而且服务很好。

Use this to build a logical argument.

这个方案节省时间。它降低成本。 这个方案不但节省时间,而且降低了成本。

Use this for parallel structure.

研究填补了空白。它提出了新理论。 该研究不但填补了空白,而且提出了新理论。

Pronunciation

bù-dàn

Tone change

Ensure the fourth tone of {不但|bùdàn} is crisp.

Rising-Falling

不但 (rise) ... 而且 (fall)

Emphasis on the second point.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of '不但' as 'Not-only' and '而且' as 'And-also'.

Visual Association

Imagine a person holding two balloons. One says 'Smart' (不但) and the other says 'Hardworking' (而且).

Rhyme

不但而且连一起,两个优点在一起。

Story

Xiao Ming is a super student. He is not only smart (不但聪明), but also hardworking (而且努力). Because of this, he is not only popular (不但受欢迎), but also gets good grades (而且成绩好).

Word Web

不仅而且不但同时

Challenge

Write 3 sentences about yourself using this structure in the next 5 minutes.

Cultural Notes

Used frequently in formal speeches and academic writing.

Often used in casual conversation with '還' (hái) instead of '而且'.

Influenced by Cantonese, often uses '唔單止' (m4 daan1 zi2).

Derived from classical Chinese additive structures.

Conversation Starters

你觉得学习中文难吗?

你的好朋友是什么样的人?

你对这份工作有什么期待?

你如何看待人工智能的发展?

Journal Prompts

Describe your hometown.
Write about your favorite hobby.
Reflect on a recent challenge you overcame.
Discuss the impact of technology on your daily life.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct

Test Yourself

Fill in the blanks with the correct conjunctions.

他___聪明,___努力。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
This is an additive structure.
Which sentence is correct? Multiple Choice

Select the correct sentence:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
The full structure is required.
Fix the error in the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

他不但聪明,努力。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Missing '而且'.
Reorder the words to make a sentence. Sentence Reorder

Arrange the words in the correct order:

All words placed

Click words above to build the sentence

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct SVO order.
Translate the sentence to Chinese. Translation

She is not only beautiful, but also smart.

Answer starts with: a...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Standard structure.
Match the first part with the second. Match Pairs

Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Additive pairs.
Build a sentence using the given words. Sentence Building

水果 / 新鲜 / 便宜

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct usage of additive.
Change the sentence to negative. Conjugation Drill

他不但聪明,而且努力。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Negating both parts.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the blanks with the correct conjunctions.

他___聪明,___努力。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
This is an additive structure.
Which sentence is correct? Multiple Choice

Select the correct sentence:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
The full structure is required.
Fix the error in the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

他不但聪明,努力。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Missing '而且'.
Reorder the words to make a sentence. Sentence Reorder

而且 / 努力 / 他 / 不但 / 聪明

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct SVO order.
Translate the sentence to Chinese. Translation

She is not only beautiful, but also smart.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Standard structure.
Match the first part with the second. Match Pairs

Match: 他不但... / 而且...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Additive pairs.
Build a sentence using the given words. Sentence Building

水果 / 新鲜 / 便宜

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct usage of additive.
Change the sentence to negative. Conjugation Drill

他不但聪明,而且努力。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Negating both parts.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

10 exercises
Fill in the blank with the first part of the pattern. Fill in the Blank

外边 ____ 下雨,而且刮风。 (It's not only raining outside, but also windy.)

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 不但
Reorder the words to say 'The coffee is not only expensive, but also bad.' Sentence Reorder

咖啡 / 不但 / 很贵 / 而且 / 很难喝

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 咖啡不但很贵,而且很难喝。
Translate to Chinese: 'She is not only smart, but also kind.' Translation

She is not only smart, but also kind.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 她不但很聪明,而且很善良。
Match the Chinese parts to form logical sentences. Match Pairs

Match the sentence halves:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 不但没电了 - 而且没充电器
Identify the correct way to add a second adjective. Multiple Choice

Which one is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 这个电影不但长,而且没意思。
Fix the word order. Error Correction

不但今天很冷,而且下雨。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 今天不但很冷,而且下雨。
Complete the 'Bad Day' complaint. Fill in the Blank

我 ____ 丢了钱包,而且手机坏了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 不但
Translate to English: 这件衣服不但很大,而且很难看。 Translation

这件衣服不但很大,而且很难看。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: This dress is not only big, but also ugly.
Reorder: 'He not only knows Chinese, but also Japanese.' Sentence Reorder

他 / 不但 / 会中文 / 而且 / 会日文

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他不但会中文,而且会日文。
Pick the sentence that shows 'adding insult to injury'. Multiple Choice

Which sentence fits a bad situation?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我不但没有伞,而且下雨了。

Score: /10

FAQ (8)

Yes, but it just means 'and'. Using '不但' adds emphasis.

They are synonyms, but '不仅' is more common in formal writing.

Yes, you can say 'He is not only lazy, but also rude.'

Usually before '不但'. If subjects are different, '不但' goes first.

Very often! It's a staple of daily conversation.

No, that would be grammatically incorrect and confusing.

You can say '不但 A,而且 B,甚至 C.'

Not at all! It's one of the first connectors you'll learn.

Scaffolded Practice

1

1

2

2

3

3

4

4

Mastery Progress

Needs Practice

Improving

Strong

Mastered

In Other Languages

Spanish high

no solo... sino también

Spanish requires 'sino' instead of 'pero' when the first clause is negative.

French high

non seulement... mais aussi

French requires agreement in gender and number for adjectives.

German high

nicht nur... sondern auch

German word order (V2 rule) can change the position of the verb.

Japanese moderate

だけでなく...も

Japanese structure is suffix-based, whereas Chinese is prefix-based.

Arabic high

ليس فقط... بل أيضاً

Arabic often includes a conjunction like 'wa' (and) before the second part.

Chinese self

不但...而且

None, this is the reference point.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

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