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不但…而且

A2 conjunction 10 min read

不但…而且

budan3...erqie3

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 不但…而且 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 不但…而且 in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners are just beginning to connect simple ideas. While '不但…而且' is technically an A2 structure, A1 students can understand it as a way to say 'and also' with more feeling. At this level, keep the sentences very simple, using basic adjectives like 'good,' 'big,' 'happy,' or 'beautiful.' The focus is on recognizing that the two parts of the sentence go together. For example, 'He is not only good, but also happy.' Learners should focus on the 'Same Subject' pattern first, as it is easier to grasp: [Subject] + 不但 + [Adjective 1], 而且 + [Adjective 2]. Avoid using different subjects at this stage to prevent confusion with subject placement rules. Think of it as a 'power-up' for the word 'and' (和). Instead of saying 'He is tall and handsome,' you are saying 'He is not only tall, but also handsome.' This adds a bit of flair to your basic descriptions.

At the A2 level, '不但…而且' is a key grammar point. You should now be able to use it to connect two actions or two descriptions of the same person. You must learn the rule about subject placement: if the person is the same, put the name or pronoun at the very beginning. For example: 'I not only like apples, but also like oranges.' You should also start to notice that the second part of the sentence usually feels a bit 'stronger' or 'more' than the first part. This level also introduces the use of '不但…而且' with different subjects. For example: 'Not only I like this movie, but my brother also likes it.' Notice that in this case, we start the sentence with '不但' and we usually need to add '也' (also) in the second part. This is a big step up in your ability to construct logical sentences in Chinese.

By the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '不但…而且' in both spoken and written Chinese. You can use it to describe more abstract concepts, not just simple physical traits. For instance, you might use it to discuss the benefits of a certain policy or the complexity of a social issue: 'This problem not only affects the environment but also affects the economy.' At this level, you should also be aware of synonyms like '不仅…也' (bùjǐn…yě) and start using them to vary your language. You should pay attention to the logic of the progression; the second clause should provide a clear 'step up' in importance or surprise. You can also start using the structure to describe negative progressions, such as 'The situation not only didn't improve, but also got worse.' This level requires more precision in how you link ideas to ensure your arguments are persuasive and clear.

At the B2 level, '不但…而且' should be used with high accuracy in formal contexts like business meetings, academic writing, and public speaking. You should be able to handle complex sentences where the clauses themselves contain other grammar structures. You might pair '不但' with more formal connectors like '并且' (bìngqiě) or '甚至' (shènzhì). For example: 'This technological breakthrough not only changes the industry but even (甚至) changes the way we live our daily lives.' You should also be familiar with the '不但不...反而...' structure, which expresses a result that is the opposite of expectation. Your use of the phrase should contribute to a cohesive and sophisticated narrative flow. You are expected to understand the subtle difference in 'flavor' between '不但', '不仅', and '不只', choosing the one that best fits the register of your communication.

At the C1 level, you are expected to have a nuanced command of '不但…而且' and its literary variants. You can use it rhetorically to build suspense or to emphasize a point in a complex argument. You might encounter or use more archaic or formal versions like '非但...抑且' (fēidàn... yìqiě) in classical-style literature or very formal speeches. You understand how to use the structure to create a specific rhythm in your prose. You can also use it to connect very long, complex clauses that involve multiple sub-points, maintaining perfect grammatical control over subject placement and correlative markers. Your understanding of the 'progressive' logic is deep enough that you can use the structure to subtly lead an audience toward a specific conclusion by framing the second point as an inevitable or overwhelming addition to the first.

At the C2 level, '不但…而且' is a tool you use with total flexibility and stylistic awareness. You can play with the structure for stylistic effect, perhaps intentionally omitting parts of it in a way that remains perfectly clear and idiomatic to a native ear. You have a mastery of the historical development of these conjunctions and can appreciate their use in various literary periods. Whether you are translating complex legal documents, writing philosophical treatises, or engaging in high-level diplomatic negotiations, you use this structure to weave together multifaceted ideas with absolute precision. You can distinguish between the most subtle nuances of various progressive conjunctions and choose the one that provides the exact degree of emphasis, formality, and logical connection required for the context.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

不但…而且 in 30 Seconds

Used to express 'not only... but also' by linking two clauses where the second adds more significant or surprising information to the first.
The subject goes before '不但' if both clauses share the same subject, otherwise it goes after '不但' and '而且'.
It creates a progressive logical flow, moving from a basic fact to a more intense or broader point in the second clause.
Commonly paired with '也' or '还' in the second clause, especially when the subjects of the two clauses are different.

The conjunction 不但…而且 (bùdàn…érqiě) is a cornerstone of Chinese grammar, functioning as a correlative pair that translates to "not only... but also" in English. It is primarily used to connect two clauses where the second clause provides additional, often more significant or surprising, information that builds upon the first. This structure belongs to the category of progressive relations (递进关系), meaning the flow of information moves forward in intensity or scope. Whether you are describing a person's talents, the features of a product, or the complexity of a situation, this pattern allows you to layer your descriptions effectively.

Core Function: It links two related facts where the second fact is an expansion or an intensification of the first.
Subject Placement Rule: If the subject is the same for both clauses, it appears before '不但'. If the subjects are different, they appear after '不但' and '而且'.

他不但会说中文，而且说得非常流利。

(He not only can speak Chinese, but also speaks it very fluently.)

In everyday life, you will hear this in professional settings when a manager praises an employee: "He is not only hardworking but also creative." In social settings, you might hear it when discussing a new restaurant: "The food is not only delicious but also cheap." It is a versatile tool that adds a layer of sophistication to your speech, moving you away from simple "A and B" sentences toward more logical, structured arguments. It helps the listener understand that the second point you are making is perhaps even more important than the first. This logical progression is vital for persuasive speaking and formal writing in Chinese.

这部电影不但很有趣，而且很有教育意义。

(This movie is not only interesting but also very educational.)

Register: Neutral to Formal. It is standard in textbooks, news broadcasts, and daily polite conversation.

不但小王要去北京，而且小张也要去。

(Not only is Xiao Wang going to Beijing, but Xiao Zhang is also going.)

Furthermore, '不但…而且' is often used to emphasize a progression from a smaller scope to a larger scope, or from a common trait to a rare one. For example, 'He not only knows how to cook, but he is a professional chef.' This emphasizes the level of skill. Understanding this 'step-up' logic is the key to using the phrase naturally. It is rarely used to connect two negative things unless the second negative is significantly worse than the first, such as 'He not only lost his wallet but also his passport.'

Mastering the usage of 不但…而且 requires careful attention to sentence structure, specifically the placement of the subject. This is the most common area where learners make mistakes. The general rule depends on whether the two parts of the sentence share the same subject or have different subjects. This grammatical nuance ensures that the sentence flows logically and follows the standard conventions of Mandarin syntax.

Pattern 1: Same Subject: Structure: [Subject] + 不但 + [Predicate 1], 而且 + [Predicate 2]. Use this when one person or thing has two qualities or does two things.

妹妹不但喜欢唱歌，而且喜欢跳舞。

(Little sister not only likes singing, but also likes dancing.)

In this example, the subject 'Little sister' (妹妹) comes before '不但'. This is because '不但' is modifying the verbs that follow, showing a progression in her interests. It would be incorrect to say '不但妹妹喜欢唱歌...'.

Pattern 2: Different Subjects: Structure: 不但 + [Subject 1] + [Predicate], 而且 + [Subject 2] + 也/还 + [Predicate]. Use this when two different people or things share the same quality or action.

不但我会用筷子，而且我的外国朋友也会用。

(Not only can I use chopsticks, but my foreign friend can also use them.)

Another important aspect is the 'progressive' nature of the adjectives or verbs used. The second part should ideally be more 'intense' or 'broader' than the first. For instance, if you say 'This house is not only big, but also beautiful,' that is a standard use. If you said 'This house is not only beautiful, but also has a door,' it sounds strange because having a door is less impressive than being beautiful. The logic must always move upwards.

学习汉语不但能帮你找工作，而且能让你了解中国文化。

(Learning Chinese not only helps you find a job, but also allows you to understand Chinese culture.)

Variations: In formal writing, '不但' can be replaced by '不仅' (bùjǐn) or '不只' (bùzhǐ). The second part '而且' can be replaced by '并且' (bìngqiě) or '甚至' (shènzhì - even).

When using this structure to describe a negative situation, the second clause should describe a worse or more severe condition. For example: 'He not only forgot my birthday, but also forgot our anniversary.' This emphasizes the progressive disappointment. In all cases, the '不但...而且' structure creates a narrative arc, leading the listener from a basic fact to a more significant one, making your Chinese sound more organized and persuasive.

You will encounter 不但…而且 in a wide variety of contexts, from the most formal speeches to casual dinner conversations. It is a highly productive pattern because it allows speakers to provide detailed descriptions and build arguments. In news broadcasts, reporters use it to describe the multifaceted impact of an event. In advertisements, it is used to list the multiple benefits of a product. In daily life, it is used to express admiration or even to complain about something that is doubly problematic.

In the Workplace: During performance reviews or project presentations. 'This plan not only saves money but also increases efficiency.'

这个方案不但省钱，而且能提高效率。

In educational settings, teachers use this structure to explain the benefits of a certain study method or the importance of a historical event. Students use it in essays to connect their points logically. Because it is a 'logical' conjunction, it appears frequently in HSK exams and other proficiency tests as a way to measure a student's ability to construct complex sentences.

In Advertisements: Marketing slogans often use this to highlight the 'double value' of a product. 'This phone is not only thin but also powerful.'

这款手机不但很薄，而且功能很强大。

In social media posts, you'll see users praising their favorite celebrities or travel destinations using this structure. 'Beijing is not only the capital, but it also has so many historical sites.' It is also common in political discourse and diplomatic language, where speakers want to emphasize multiple layers of cooperation or shared interests. Essentially, whenever there is a need to move beyond a simple list and show a relationship of 'added value' or 'increased intensity,' this is the go-to phrase. It is one of the first 'complex' structures a learner acquires that truly changes the 'flavor' of their Chinese from sounding like a beginner to sounding like an intermediate speaker.

北京不但是首都，而且有很多名胜古迹。

In Literature: Authors use '不但…而且' to develop characters or settings, providing a more vivid and multi-dimensional description than simple adjectives would allow.

Finally, you will hear this in parenting or advice-giving. 'You not only need to study hard, but you also need to exercise.' This highlights the holistic nature of the advice. By using '不但…而且', the speaker ensures that the listener doesn't just focus on the first point but understands that the second point is equally, if not more, vital. It creates a sense of completeness in communication.

Even though 不但…而且 seems straightforward, it is a frequent source of errors for learners. These mistakes usually fall into three categories: subject placement, illogical progression, and missing correlative words. Understanding these pitfalls will help you use the phrase with the precision of a native speaker.

Mistake 1: Incorrect Subject Placement: This is the most common error. Remember: Same subject? Subject goes BEFORE '不但'. Different subjects? Subjects go AFTER '不但' and '而且'.

❌ 不但他喜欢苹果，而且喜欢西瓜。
✅ 他不但喜欢苹果，而且喜欢西瓜。

In the incorrect example above, the subject '他' (he) is the same for both liking apples and liking watermelons. Therefore, it must come before '不但'. If you put it after, it sounds like you are about to introduce a second person, but then you don't, which confuses the listener.

Mistake 2: Lack of Progressive Logic: The second part must be 'more' than the first. If the second part is less significant, the sentence feels 'deflated'.

❌ 他不但会写书，而且会写字。

Saying 'He not only can write books, but also can write characters' is illogical because writing books is a much higher level of skill than writing characters. The correct order would be 'He not only can write characters, but also can write books.'

Mistake 3: Forgetting '也' or '还' with Different Subjects: When the subjects are different, the second clause almost always requires '也' (yě) or '还' (hái) to complete the logic of 'also'.

❌ 不但老师来了，而且学生来了。
✅ 不但老师来了，而且学生也来了。

Another subtle mistake is using '不但…而且' to connect two unrelated things. For example, 'He is not only tall, but also likes to eat pizza.' While grammatically possible, it's stylistically weak. Native speakers use the structure to connect things within the same theme (e.g., physical traits, hobbies, or consequences). Lastly, avoid overusing it. While it's a great structure, using it in every other sentence will make your speech sound repetitive and overly dramatic. Use it when you truly want to emphasize a progression or a 'bonus' fact.

While 不但…而且 is the most common way to express "not only... but also," Chinese offers several alternatives depending on the level of formality and the specific nuance you want to convey. Understanding these synonyms will help you vary your vocabulary and adapt to different social or professional situations.

不仅…也/还 (bùjǐn…yě/hái): This is a very common synonym, often used interchangeably with '不但...而且'. '不仅' sounds slightly more formal than '不但'.
不只…并且 (bùzhǐ…bìngqiě): '不只' literally means 'not just'. '并且' is a formal way of saying 'and/also'. This pair is often found in written reports and news.
不但不…反而… (bùdàn bù…fǎn'ér…): This is a variation used when the result is the opposite of what was expected. 'Not only did [A] not happen, but on the contrary [B] happened.'

风不但不停，反而越刮越大了。

(Not only did the wind not stop, but on the contrary, it blew harder and harder.)

When comparing these options, consider the 'weight' of the words. '不但' is the workhorse of the language—it's reliable and fits almost everywhere. '不仅' is its more elegant cousin, perfect for a speech or a well-written email. '不只' is slightly more colloquial but still very common. The second half of the pair also matters: '而且' is standard, '也' is casual, and '甚至' (shènzhì) adds a massive amount of emphasis, meaning 'even'.

Comparison Table

不但...而且: Standard, versatile, most common.
不仅...甚至: High emphasis, 'not only... but even'.
不光...还: Very colloquial, spoken northern Chinese.
非但...抑且: Extremely formal, literary, or archaic.

In some contexts, you might not need a pair at all. You could use '又...又...' (yòu...yòu...) for two simultaneous qualities (e.g., 'both tall and strong'), but this lacks the progressive 'step-up' feel of '不但...而且'. Another alternative is '除了...还...' (chúle...hái...), which means 'besides... also...'. This is useful when the items are more like a list rather than a progression of intensity. Choosing the right one depends on whether you want to emphasize the 'extra-ness' (不但) or simply the 'addition' (除了).

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '且' (qiě) originally depicted a sacrificial vessel or an altar, which later evolved to mean 'addition' or 'moreover' because rituals involved multiple offerings.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˌbuːˈdæn ... ˈɜːrˌtʃiɛ/

US /ˌbuˈdæn ... ˈɜrˌtʃiɛ/

In '不但', the stress is on 'dan'. In '而且', the stress is on 'qie'.

Rhymes With

不但 (bùdàn) rhymes with 鸡蛋 (jīdàn), 简单 (jiǎndān), 圣诞 (shèngdàn). 而且 (érqiě) rhymes with 细节 (xìjié), 季节 (jìjié), 解决 (jiějué - partial).

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'qie' as 'kee' or 'kway'. It should be a 'ch' sound followed by 'yeh'.
Ignoring the tones: 'bù' (4th), 'dàn' (4th), 'ér' (2nd), 'qiě' (3rd).
Mumbling the 'er' sound; it needs to be a distinct retroflex sound.
Treating 'dan' as a long 'a' like 'dayn'. It is closer to 'ahn'.
Failing to pause slightly between the two clauses.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The words themselves are easy to recognize, but the logic of the sentence requires attention.

Writing 3/5

Subject placement is the primary difficulty for writers.

Speaking 3/5

Requires planning the second half of the sentence while saying the first half.

Listening 2/5

Once '不但' is heard, the listener can easily predict an '而且' or '也' is coming.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

和 (hé) 也 (yě) 还 (hái) 但是 (dànshì) 因为 (yīnwèi)

Learn Next

虽然...但是 (suīrán...dànshì) 因为...所以 (yīnwèi...suǒyǐ) 如果...就 (rúguǒ...jiù) 不但不...反而 (bùdànbù...fǎn'ér) 既然...就 (jìrán...jiù)

Advanced

不仅...甚至 (bùjǐn...shènzhì) 非但...抑且 (fēidàn...yìqiě) 尚且...何况 (shàngqiě...hékuàng) 与其...不如 (yǔqí...bùrú)

Grammar to Know

Subject Placement with Correlative Conjunctions

Same subject: 他不但...；Different subjects: 不但他... 而且我也...

Use of '也' and '还' in Progressive Sentences

In '不但...而且' sentences, '也' or '还' often appears in the second clause for emphasis.

Progressive Relationship (递进关系)

The second clause must represent a 'step up' from the first clause.

Negation in Progressive Structures

Using '不但不...' to show that something is the opposite of expected.

Omission of '而且'

In informal speech, '而且' can be omitted if '也' or '还' is present.

Examples by Level

他不但高，而且帅。

He is not only tall, but also handsome.

Simple adjectives connected with the same subject.

这个苹果不但大，而且红。

This apple is not only big, but also red.

Describing physical traits of an object.

老师不但好，而且漂亮。

The teacher is not only good, but also beautiful.

Positive traits of a person.

我不但有猫，而且有狗。

I not only have a cat, but also have a dog.

Simple possession using 'have'.

今天不但热，而且有风。

Today is not only hot, but also windy.

Weather description.

他不但会说，而且会写。

He not only can speak, but also can write.

Basic skills/actions.

书不但多，而且贵。

The books are not only many, but also expensive.

Quantity and cost.

面条不但好吃，而且便宜。

The noodles are not only delicious, but also cheap.

Describing food.

我不但喜欢游泳，而且喜欢跑步。

I not only like swimming, but also like running.

Same subject, two different hobbies.

不但我去，而且他也要去。

Not only am I going, but he is also going.

Different subjects, '不但' starts the sentence.

他不但会说英语，而且会说法语。

He not only can speak English, but also can speak French.

Same subject, two language skills.

这件衣服不但漂亮，而且很舒服。

This piece of clothing is not only beautiful, but also very comfortable.

Describing appearance and feel.

不但北京很大，而且上海也很大。

Not only is Beijing very big, but Shanghai is also very big.

Different subjects, comparing two cities.

他不但迟到了，而且忘了带书。

He not only arrived late, but also forgot to bring his book.

Negative progression of events.

不但老师在笑，而且学生们也在笑。

Not only is the teacher laughing, but the students are also laughing.

Different subjects, shared action.

这个手机不但能照相，而且能上网。

This phone can not only take photos, but also surf the internet.

Features of a product.

这个项目不但能赚很多钱，而且能提高公司的名声。

This project can not only make a lot of money, but also improve the company's reputation.

Abstract benefits in a business context.

他不但没生气，而且还主动帮我解决了问题。

Not only did he not get angry, but he also took the initiative to help me solve the problem.

Contradicting expected negative behavior.

不但我们要努力学习，而且还要学会如何与人沟通。

Not only do we need to study hard, but we also need to learn how to communicate with others.

Adding a qualitative skill to a quantitative effort.

这种药不但能治感冒，而且对咳嗽也很有效。

This medicine can not only treat colds, but is also very effective for coughs.

Medical efficacy description.

不但他一个人完成了任务，而且完成得非常出色。

Not only did he complete the task alone, but he also did it exceptionally well.

Emphasizing the quality of an individual effort.

那里的风景不但美得像画，而且气候也非常宜人。

The scenery there is not only as beautiful as a painting, but the climate is also very pleasant.

Describing environmental conditions.

不但我们需要新鲜的空气，而且植物也需要它来生长。

Not only do we need fresh air, but plants also need it to grow.

General scientific or biological fact.

他不但自己成功了，而且还带动了家乡的发展。

He not only succeeded himself, but also drove the development of his hometown.

Social impact and individual success.

这项政策不但有利于环境保护，而且对经济转型也有深远影响。

This policy is not only beneficial for environmental protection but also has a profound impact on economic transformation.

Formal policy analysis.

他不但没有被困难吓倒，反而激发了更强的斗志。

Not only was he not intimidated by the difficulties, but instead, they stimulated a stronger fighting spirit.

Using '反而' for a reversal of expectation.

不但技术创新至关重要，而且管理模式的改进也同样不可或缺。

Not only is technological innovation crucial, but the improvement of management models is equally indispensable.

Discussing two essential elements of success.

这种文化现象不但反映了社会的变迁，而且揭示了人们心理的变化。

This cultural phenomenon not only reflects social changes but also reveals changes in people's psychology.

Sociological observation.

不但他拒绝了这份高薪工作，而且还决定去偏远地区支教。

Not only did he turn down this high-paying job, but he also decided to go to a remote area to teach.

Contrasting material gain with altruism.

不但我们要关注眼前的利益，而且更要考虑长远的发展。

Not only should we focus on immediate interests, but we must also consider long-term development.

Strategic thinking and comparison.

不但这篇文章逻辑严密，而且文笔也十分优美。

Not only is this article logically rigorous, but the writing style is also very beautiful.

Literary and logical critique.

不但这种植物能净化空气，而且它的根部还能固土保水。

Not only can this plant purify the air, but its roots can also fix soil and conserve water.

Technical biological description.

不但其论点站不住脚，而且其引用的数据也存在明显的偏差。

Not only is its argument untenable, but the data it cites also contains obvious biases.

Academic critique of a research paper.

这种艺术风格不但继承了传统，而且在表现形式上进行了大胆的突破。

This artistic style not only inherits tradition but has also made bold breakthroughs in its form of expression.

Artistic analysis of tradition vs. innovation.

不但他本人在学术界享有盛誉，而且他的学生们也大都卓有成就。

Not only does he himself enjoy a high reputation in academia, but most of his students are also highly accomplished.

Describing influence and legacy.

不但全球变暖导致了海平面的上升，而且还引发了一系列极端天气。

Not only has global warming led to rising sea levels, but it has also triggered a series of extreme weather events.

Discussing complex environmental chain reactions.

不但该法律条款需要进一步细化，而且其执行力度也亟待加强。

Not only does the legal clause need further refinement, but its enforcement also urgently needs strengthening.

Legal and administrative commentary.

不但他精通古典文学，而且对现代西方哲学也有深刻的见解。

Not only is he proficient in classical literature, but he also has profound insights into modern Western philosophy.

Describing intellectual breadth.

不但这种材料具有极高的强度，而且其重量轻得令人难以置信。

Not only does this material have extremely high strength, but its weight is also unbelievably light.

Technical material science description.

不但我们要反思过去，而且更要以史为鉴，开创未来。

Not only must we reflect on the past, but we must also use history as a mirror to create the future.

Philosophical and historical discourse.

不但其辞藻华丽，抑且其意蕴深远，实为旷世之作。

Not only is its rhetoric magnificent, but its meaning is also profound; it is truly a masterpiece of the age.

Using '抑且' (yìqiě) for an extremely formal, literary tone.

不但该理论在逻辑上自洽，而且在实证研究中也得到了广泛的印证。

Not only is the theory logically self-consistent, but it has also been widely verified in empirical research.

High-level scientific and philosophical validation.

不但要察其言，而且要观其行，方能真正了解一个人的品格。

One must not only listen to their words but also observe their actions to truly understand their character.

Classical wisdom applied with modern grammar.

不但地缘政治局势错综复杂，而且全球经济的脆弱性也在不断增加。

Not only is the geopolitical situation intricate and complex, but the fragility of the global economy is also increasing.

Discussing international relations and macroeconomics.

不但这种叙事手法打破了时空的界限，而且还重构了读者的审美体验。

Not only does this narrative technique break the boundaries of time and space, but it also reconstructs the reader's aesthetic experience.

Advanced literary and aesthetic theory.

不但他对于权力的本质有着透彻的理解，而且在运用权术时也显得游刃有余。

Not only does he have a thorough understanding of the nature of power, but he also appears to handle political tactics with ease.

Sophisticated political and psychological analysis.

不但要关注科技伦理的构建，而且还需防范人工智能可能带来的系统性风险。

Not only must we focus on the construction of technological ethics, but we also need to guard against systemic risks that AI might bring.

Technological and ethical discourse.

不但这种文化融合促进了物种的交流，而且还催生了全新的文明形态。

Not only did this cultural fusion promote the exchange of species, but it also gave birth to entirely new forms of civilization.

Historical and anthropological synthesis.

Common Collocations

不但不…反而

不但…甚至

不但…而且还

不但…而且也

不但…并且

不但如此

不但没有…反而

不但…更

不但…连…都

不但…同时

Common Phrases

不但如此

— Not only that; furthermore. Used to start a new sentence that adds to the previous point.

他很聪明。不但如此，他还非常勤奋。

不但没…反而…

— Not only did [A] not happen, but on the contrary [B] happened. Used for unexpected results.

他不但没帮我，反而笑话我。

不但要…还要…

— Not only must one... but one must also... Common in giving advice or setting requirements.

不但要学好理论，还要多实践。

不但…而且更…

— Not only... but even more... Used to emphasize that the second point is of higher priority.

不但要完成任务，而且更要保证质量。

不但…也同样…

— Not only... but also equally... Shows that two things share the same importance.

不但老师辛苦，家长也同样辛苦。

不但不听，反而…

— Not only did they not listen, but instead... A common way to describe stubbornness.

他不但不听劝告，反而变本加厉。

不但…甚至连…也

— Not only... but even [extreme case] also... Used for strong emphasis.

他不但在家不干活，甚至连碗都不洗。

不但能…还能…

— Not only can it... but it can also... Used to describe multi-functional items.

这把雨伞不但能遮雨，还能防晒。

不但学习好，而且…

— Not only good at studying, but also... A classic praise for students.

他不但学习好，而且体育也很棒。

不但…而且也是…

— Not only... but is also... Used for dual identities.

他不但我的老板，而且也是我的朋友。

Often Confused With

不但…而且 vs 既…又…

Used for two simultaneous qualities that are equal in weight. '不但...而且' implies a progression or 'extra' factor.

不但…而且 vs 虽然…但是…

Used for contrast. '不但...而且' is for addition and reinforcement.

不但…而且 vs 除了…还…

Used for listing. '不但...而且' focuses on the intensity or logic of the addition.

Idioms & Expressions

"得陇望蜀"

— To have obtained Gansu (Long) and then want Sichuan (Shu). Often used in contexts where someone is 'not only' satisfied with one thing 'but also' greedy for more.

他不但拿到了奖金，还想要休假，真是得陇望蜀。

Literary

"锦上添花"

— To add flowers to brocade. To make something that is already good even better. Fits the '不但...而且' logic of positive progression.

他的加入不但提高了效率，更是锦上添花。

Neutral

"雪上加霜"

— To add frost to snow. To make a bad situation worse. Fits the '不但...而且' logic of negative progression.

不但丢了工作，还生了病，真是雪上加霜。

Neutral

"名副其实"

— To be worthy of the name. Often used after a '不但...而且' description to confirm the quality.

他不但聪明而且勤奋，真是名副其实的天才。

Formal

"两全其美"

— To satisfy both sides; to have the best of both worlds. Related to the '不但...而且' idea of achieving two positive goals.

这个办法不但省钱，而且省力，真是两全其美。

Neutral

"一举两得"

— To kill two birds with one stone. Doing one thing that has 'not only' one benefit 'but also' another.

骑车上班不但锻炼身体，还省钱，真是一举两得。

Neutral

"事半功倍"

— Half the work, double the results. Often used with '不但...而且' to describe efficient methods.

用这个方法不但轻松，而且事半功倍。

Neutral

"德才兼备"

— To possess both political integrity and professional competence. A formal way to describe someone who is '不但' virtuous '而且' talented.

他是一位不但有能力，而且有品德，德才兼备的领导。

Formal

"文武双全"

— Adept with both the pen and the sword. Describes someone '不但' good at academics '而且' good at martial arts/sports.

他不但学习第一，篮球也打得好，真是文武双全。

Neutral

"变本加厉"

— To become more severe; to intensify. Often used with '不但不...反而...' to describe worsening behavior.

他不但不改，反而变本加厉地欺负同学。

Formal

Easily Confused

不但…而且 vs 不仅

Both mean 'not only'.

不仅 is slightly more formal and often used in writing. 不但 is more common in speech.

这个问题不仅复杂，而且棘手。

不但…而且 vs 不只

Both mean 'not only'.

不只 often focuses on quantity or 'not just this one'. 不但 is more about qualities or actions.

不只他一个人知道这件事。

不但…而且 vs 并且

Both mean 'and/also'.

并且 is usually used between two verbs or clauses to show simultaneous or consecutive actions, while 而且 is specifically for 'progressive' addition.

我们要讨论并且通过这个计划。

不但…而且 vs 甚至

Both add information.

甚至 means 'even' and is much more emphatic than 而且. It is often used *after* 而且 for maximum effect.

他不但没来，甚至连电话也没打。

不但…而且 vs 反而

Both appear in the second clause.

反而 indicates a result contrary to expectation, while 而且 indicates a result in line with but stronger than the first part.

风不但没停，反而更大了。

Sentence Patterns

S + 不但 + Adj1, 而且 + Adj2

他不但高，而且帅。

不但 + S1 + V, 而且 + S2 + 也 + V

不但我喜欢，而且他也喜欢。

S + 不但 + V1, 而且还 + V2

我不但买了菜，而且还做了饭。

S + 不但 + V1, 而且甚至 + V2

他不但没迟到，而且甚至早到了半小时。

S + 不但不... 反而...

雨不但没停，反而越下越大了。

不但... 并且...

这个方案不但科学，并且具有可操作性。

不但... 更重要的是...

学习汉语不但能沟通，更重要的是能理解中国文化。

不但... 抑且...

其文不但辞采华茂，抑且意蕴深沉。

Word Family

不仅 (bùjǐn)

不只 (bùzhǐ)

并且 (bìngqiě)

也 (yě)

还 (hái)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in both written and spoken Chinese.

Common Mistakes

不但他喜欢苹果，而且喜欢西瓜。 → 他不但喜欢苹果，而且喜欢西瓜。
When the subject is the same (他), it must come before '不但'.
不但我去了，而且他也去了。 → 不但我去了，而且他也去了。
This is actually correct, but students often forget the '也' which is necessary here.
他不但会写书，而且会写字。 → 他不但会写字，而且会写书。
The logic is backwards. Writing books is a higher level skill than writing characters.
这种药不但治病，而且很贵。 → 这种药不但能治病，而且副作用很小。
The two points should ideally belong to the same theme (e.g., benefits). 'Expensive' is a negative trait mixed with a positive one.
不但他学习好，而且他体育好。 → 他不但学习好，而且体育好。
Repeating the subject '他' in the second clause is redundant when it's the same person.

Tips

Subject First!

If the person doing both things is the same, put their name at the very beginning of the sentence.

Step Up Logic

Ensure the second clause is 'more' than the first. 'Not only can he walk, but he can run' makes sense. 'Not only can he run, but he can walk' does not.

Use Synonyms

Mix in '不仅' or '不只' to sound more sophisticated in your writing.

The 'Also' Helper

Always try to include '也' or '还' in the second part; it makes the sentence sound more complete to native ears.

Business Context

In meetings, use this to list the benefits of your ideas to sound more persuasive.

Signal Word

Treat '不但' as a signal that a second, more important point is coming.

Punctuation

Always put a comma after the first clause, before '而且'.

Pairing with Adjectives

Use it to pair adjectives from the same category, like two positive traits or two physical features.

Modesty

When someone praises you with '不但...而且', it's polite to respond with '哪里哪里' (Nǎlǐ nǎlǐ).

Avoid Redundancy

Don't use '不但...而且' for simple lists of three or more things. Use it for a pair of points.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Bu-Dan' as 'No-Just' (Not just this) and 'Er-Qie' as 'And-Plus' (And plus that). It’s like a 'Buy One, Get One Free' deal for your sentences!

Visual Association

Imagine a staircase. '不但' is the first step, and '而且' is the second step, which is higher and more important.

Word Web

不但 (Not only) 而且 (But also) 不仅 (Not only - formal) 并且 (Moreover) 甚至 (Even) 也 (Also) 还 (Still/Also) 反而 (On the contrary)

Challenge

Try to describe your best friend using '不但...而且' three times today, focusing on their skills, personality, and appearance.

Word Origin

The term '不但' (bùdàn) is composed of '不' (not) and '但' (only/merely). Historically, '但' meant 'only' or 'just' in Middle Chinese. '而且' (érqiě) is composed of '而' (and/but - a classical conjunction) and '且' (moreover/also). Together, they form a logical bridge that has been used in various forms since the development of modern vernacular Chinese (Baihua) in the early 20th century.

Original meaning: Not only (this), but also (that).

Sino-Tibetan

Cultural Context

When using this to describe negative traits of people, be careful as it can sound like a very strong or 'double' criticism.

English speakers often use 'not only... but also' for emphasis, but in Chinese, the '不但...而且' structure is even more common in daily speech than its English counterpart.

Used frequently in the 'Selected Works of Mao Zedong' to outline political strategies. Commonly found in the lyrics of C-pop songs to describe intense emotions or multiple qualities of a lover. A staple in HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) level 2 and 3 grammar textbooks.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Describing People

不但聪明而且勤奋
不但漂亮而且善良
不但个子高而且很壮
不但有钱而且大方

Product Features

不但便宜而且好用
不但美观而且耐用
不但轻便而且坚固
不但省电而且环保

Learning/Education

不但要听而且要说
不但要背而且要懂
不但有书而且有课
不但要努力而且要方法

Travel/Places

不但景美而且人好
不但繁华而且古老
不但很大而且很干净
不但有名而且有趣

Work/Business

不但能省钱而且能提速
不但要创新而且要稳健
不但要合作而且要竞争
不但有风险而且有机遇

Conversation Starters

"你觉得学习汉语不但很有趣，而且还有什么好处？"

"那家餐厅不但菜做得好，而且服务怎么样？"

"你觉得你的家乡不但风景漂亮，而且还有什么特色？"

"一个好的领导不但要有能力，而且还需要具备什么素质？"

"这部电影不但特效很棒，而且剧情你觉得怎么样？"

Journal Prompts

写一写你最好的朋友。他/她不但性格好，而且还有哪些优点？

描述你最喜欢的城市。它不但有很多名胜古迹，而且现代化的程度如何？

谈谈你对这份工作的看法。它不但能给你提供收入，而且对你的个人成长有什么帮助？

如果你要向别人推荐一个软件，它不但操作简单，而且还有哪些强大的功能？

回顾一下你最近的学习。你不但掌握了新的单词，而且在语法运用方面有哪些进步？

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, in informal speech, you can replace '而且' with '也' or '还'. For example, '他不但高，还很帅.' However, in formal writing, it is best to use the full pair.

If the subject is the same for both parts of the sentence, it must go before '不但'. For example: '他不但喜欢猫，而且喜欢狗.' Placing it after '不但' is a common error.

If the subjects are different, they must go after '不但' and '而且' respectively. For example: '不但我去，而且他也去.' In this case, '不但' starts the sentence.

No, it can be used for negative things too, as long as the second part is 'more' negative. For example: '他不但丢了钱，而且丢了护照.' This emphasizes the worsening situation.

Yes, '而且' can be used as a simple conjunction meaning 'furthermore' or 'and' to add information to a previous sentence, even without '不但'.

'不仅' is more formal and literary. '不但' is the standard, everyday choice. They are grammatically interchangeable in almost all contexts.

When the subjects are different, you almost always need '也' or '还'. When the subject is the same, it's optional but very common to add '还' for extra emphasis.

Yes! '不但不...反而...' is a specific pattern used when something results in the opposite of what was expected. '不但没停，反而更大了.'

No, it will make your speech sound repetitive and overly dramatic. Use it when you actually want to emphasize a progression of ideas.

Yes, '并且' is a more formal synonym for '而且', often used in written reports or structured arguments.