不但...而且...
不但...而且... in 30 Seconds
- Connects two ideas: 'not only... but also...'.
- Adds extra, often more important, information.
- Used in spoken and written Chinese.
- Essential for detailed descriptions.
- Usage Scenarios
- Used to add information, emphasize multiple aspects, build upon a statement, and create a sense of accumulation.
- Key Function
- Connects two clauses, with the second clause adding to or emphasizing the first.
- Structure
- Clause 1 + 不但 + Clause 2 + 而且 + Clause 3 (or Clause 1 + 不但 + Clause 2, and Clause 2 is the focus).
This book is 不但 interesting, 而且 very informative. (这本书不但有趣,而且很有信息量。)
- Sentence Structure
- Subject + 不但 + Predicate 1 + 而且 + Predicate 2.
- Variations
- Sometimes, '而且' can be followed by '也' (yě) or '还' (hái) for added emphasis, especially when the second predicate refers to the same subject.
- Parallelism
- Ensure that the grammatical structure of the two parts connected by '不但' and '而且' is consistent for clarity.
He not only speaks English, but also understands French. (他不但会说英语,而且也懂法语。)
- Everyday Conversations
- Used to describe people, places, things, and experiences with multiple positive or negative attributes.
- Formal Settings
- Common in speeches, presentations, and academic writing to present multifaceted arguments or descriptions.
- Media and News
- Used to explain complex situations, policy impacts, or event details by highlighting multiple contributing factors or outcomes.
This city is not only beautiful, but also full of history. (这座城市不但很美,而且历史悠久。)
- Missing '而且'
- Forgetting to include '而且' after the first clause, or using '不但' alone without its corresponding partner.
- Incorrect Word Order
- Placing '不但' in the wrong position, especially when the subject is repeated or different in the second clause.
- Lack of Parallelism
- Connecting clauses with significantly different grammatical structures, making the sentence sound awkward.
Incorrect: I not only like apples, also bananas. (我不但喜欢苹果,喜欢香蕉。)
Correct: I not only like apples, but also bananas. (我不但喜欢苹果,而且也喜欢香蕉。)
- '不仅...而且...'
- Very similar to '不但...而且...', often interchangeable. '不仅' is a synonym for '不但'.
- '不但...也...' / '不仅...也...'
- Used when the second part is a direct continuation or elaboration, often with the same subject. '也' means 'also'.
- '不光...还...'
- Similar to '不但...而且...', but '还' can sometimes imply a stronger emphasis on the second part.
Alternative: He not only sings well, but also dances beautifully. (他不仅唱歌好听,而且跳舞也很棒。)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The structure of '不但...而且...' mirrors similar correlative conjunctions in other languages, like 'not only... but also...' in English, or 'nicht nur... sondern auch...' in German. This suggests a universal linguistic need to express additive relationships between clauses. The phrase has become so ingrained in Chinese that it's difficult to imagine expressing this kind of nuanced addition without it.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing '不' (bù) with a neutral tone when it precedes a fourth-tone character (like '但'), but here '但' is fourth tone, so '不' correctly becomes neutral or the third tone 'bú' in some contexts, though 'bù' is standard before 'dàn'.
- Not pausing between '不但' and '而且' when the subject is the same, which can make the sentence sound rushed.
- Mispronouncing the tones of '而' (rising) and '且' (rising).
Difficulty Rating
This phrase is very common in A2-level reading materials and beyond. Understanding its structure and meaning is crucial for comprehending sentences with additive clauses.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Correlative Conjunctions
不但...而且... is a type of correlative conjunction that links two related clauses, emphasizing both parts.
Sentence Structure with Additive Clauses
The basic structure is Subject + 不但 + Predicate 1 + 而且 + Predicate 2, where both predicates modify the subject.
Parallelism in Sentence Construction
It is best to maintain similar grammatical structures for the two parts connected by '不但' and '而且' for clarity and fluency.
Tones of '不'
'不' (bù) changes to the third tone 'bú' when followed by another third tone, but it remains 'bù' before a fourth tone like in '不但'.
Using '也' or '还' as alternatives to '而且'
Sometimes, '不但...也...' or '不但...还...' can be used, especially when the second clause is a direct continuation or emphasizes the additional aspect.
Examples by Level
我喜欢苹果,而且喜欢香蕉。
I like apples, and also like bananas.
Simple addition of two liked fruits.
这个孩子不但可爱,而且很聪明。
This child not only is cute, but also is very smart.
Connecting two positive attributes of a child.
今天不但晴朗,而且很暖和。
Today not only is sunny, but also is very warm.
Describing two pleasant weather conditions.
他不但会说汉语,而且会说英语。
He not only can speak Chinese, but also can speak English.
Listing two languages a person can speak.
这件衣服不但漂亮,而且便宜。
This piece of clothing not only is beautiful, but also is cheap.
Connecting aesthetic appeal and price.
我不但喜欢看书,而且喜欢听音乐。
I not only like reading books, but also like listening to music.
Listing two enjoyable hobbies.
这个地方不但安静,而且很干净。
This place not only is quiet, but also is very clean.
Describing two positive qualities of a location.
他不但跑得快,而且跳得高。
He not only runs fast, but also jumps high.
Describing two athletic abilities.
这家餐厅不但菜好吃,而且服务也好。
This restaurant not only has delicious food, but also has good service.
Connecting two positive aspects of a restaurant: food and service.
她不但学习努力,而且很有天赋。
She not only studies hard, but also is very talented.
Highlighting both effort and natural ability.
这个项目不但有创意,而且很实用。
This project not only is creative, but also is very practical.
Describing a project's dual benefits: innovation and utility.
他不但会开车,而且会修车。
He not only can drive, but also can repair cars.
Listing two related skills concerning vehicles.
这个城市不但经济发达,而且文化也很丰富。
This city not only is economically developed, but also its culture is very rich.
Connecting economic prosperity with cultural richness.
我的新工作不但有挑战性,而且薪水也很高。
My new job not only is challenging, but also the salary is very high.
Describing a job with both difficulty and reward.
这幅画不但色彩鲜艳,而且构图也很巧妙。
This painting not only has bright colors, but also its composition is very clever.
Analyzing a painting's visual elements: color and composition.
他不但关心家人,而且也关心朋友。
He not only cares about his family, but also cares about his friends.
Extending care to different social circles.
这次旅行不但让我放松了身心,而且也开阔了我的视野。
This trip not only relaxed my body and mind, but also broadened my horizons.
Highlighting both personal well-being and intellectual growth from an experience.
这项技术不但能提高生产效率,而且还能减少环境污染。
This technology not only can increase production efficiency, but also can reduce environmental pollution.
Describing a technology's dual benefits: economic and ecological.
这位作家不但作品数量多,而且每部作品都质量很高。
This author not only has a large quantity of works, but also every work has very high quality.
Praising an author for both productivity and quality.
他不但适应了新的工作环境,而且很快就取得了显著的成绩。
He not only adapted to the new work environment, but also quickly achieved remarkable results.
Showing successful adaptation and subsequent achievement.
这个计划不但考虑到了短期效益,而且也为长远发展奠定了基础。
This plan not only considered short-term benefits, but also laid the foundation for long-term development.
Analyzing a plan's foresight in both immediate and future impacts.
她不但乐于助人,而且总是能提供有建设性的意见。
She not only is willing to help others, but also can always provide constructive advice.
Highlighting both helpfulness and the quality of advice.
这次会议不但讨论了关键问题,而且也达成了重要的共识。
This meeting not only discussed key issues, but also reached important consensus.
Summarizing the outcomes of a meeting: discussion and agreement.
这个博物馆不但展品丰富,而且教育意义也很深远。
This museum not only has abundant exhibits, but also its educational significance is profound.
Praising a museum for its collection and educational value.
该公司的创新模式不但吸引了大量投资,而且也为行业树立了新的标杆。
The company's innovative model not only attracted a large amount of investment, but also set a new benchmark for the industry.
Describing a company's dual impact: financial and industry-wide.
这位科学家不但提出了革命性的理论,而且还成功地进行了实验验证。
This scientist not only proposed a revolutionary theory, but also successfully conducted experimental verification.
Highlighting both theoretical contribution and practical validation.
政府推出的新政策不但旨在促进经济增长,而且也致力于解决社会不公问题。
The new policy introduced by the government not only aims to promote economic growth, but also is committed to solving social inequality issues.
Detailing a policy's dual objectives: economic and social.
这部电影不但具有深刻的艺术价值,而且也引发了广泛的社会讨论。
This movie not only possesses profound artistic value, but also has sparked widespread social discussion.
Connecting artistic merit with social impact.
这次国际合作不但促进了技术交流,而且也加深了各国之间的相互理解。
This international cooperation not only promoted technological exchange, but also deepened mutual understanding between countries.
Describing the outcomes of cooperation: technological and diplomatic.
该培训课程不但教授了实用的职业技能,而且也培养了学员的团队协作能力。
This training course not only taught practical professional skills, but also cultivated the trainees' teamwork ability.
Detailing a course's impact on both individual skills and group dynamics.
他不但具备深厚的学术功底,而且在实践应用方面也展现出非凡的才华。
He not only possesses a profound academic foundation, but also demonstrates extraordinary talent in practical application.
Highlighting excellence in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
这个生态保护区不但物种多样性丰富,而且对当地气候的调节作用也十分显著。
This nature reserve not only has rich biodiversity, but also its role in regulating the local climate is very significant.
Connecting biodiversity with environmental regulation.
该研究不仅揭示了该疾病的发病机制,而且为开发新的治疗方案提供了理论依据。
This research not only revealed the pathogenesis of the disease, but also provided theoretical basis for developing new treatment plans.
Describing research impact: understanding a disease and guiding future treatments.
这位领导者不但具备卓越的战略眼光,而且在危机处理方面也展现出非凡的冷静与果断。
This leader not only possesses excellent strategic vision, but also demonstrates extraordinary calmness and decisiveness in crisis management.
Highlighting leadership qualities in both long-term planning and immediate crisis response.
该文化遗产的保护工作不但要注重其物质形态的修复,而且要深入挖掘其精神内涵。
The protection of this cultural heritage must not only focus on the restoration of its material form, but also deeply explore its spiritual connotation.
Emphasizing a dual approach to heritage preservation: physical and spiritual.
其艺术作品不但技法精湛,而且充满了对社会现实的深刻反思。
His/Her artwork not only has exquisite technique, but also is full of profound reflection on social reality.
Connecting artistic mastery with social commentary.
本次峰会不但就贸易协定达成了初步共识,而且也为未来的全球治理体系改革奠定了基础。
This summit not only reached a preliminary consensus on the trade agreement, but also laid the foundation for the reform of the future global governance system.
Describing the outcomes of a summit: immediate agreement and long-term structural impact.
这家企业不但实现了可观的经济效益,而且在履行企业社会责任方面也做出了杰出贡献。
This company not only achieved considerable economic benefits, but also made outstanding contributions in fulfilling corporate social responsibility.
Highlighting a company's success in both profit generation and social contribution.
他不但对所研究的领域有着深入的理解,而且其批判性思维能力也得到了同行的高度评价。
He not only has a deep understanding of the field he studies, but also his critical thinking ability has received high praise from his peers.
Praising an individual for both specialized knowledge and analytical skills.
该倡议不但能够有效缓解当前的危机,而且也为构建更具韧性的未来社会提供了长远解决方案。
This initiative not only can effectively alleviate the current crisis, but also provides long-term solutions for building a more resilient future society.
Describing an initiative's dual impact: immediate relief and long-term resilience building.
该理论的提出不但颠覆了传统的认知框架,而且为后续的学科发展开辟了新的疆域。
The proposal of this theory not only subverted the traditional cognitive framework, but also opened up new frontiers for subsequent disciplinary development.
Describing a theory's impact on existing knowledge and future research direction.
这位艺术家的创作不仅是对个体情感的深刻抒发,更是对时代精神的敏锐捕捉与升华。
This artist's creation is not only a profound expression of individual emotions, but also a keen capture and sublimation of the spirit of the times.
Connecting personal expression with broader societal commentary and artistic elevation.
其外交策略的制定,不但充分考量了国家的核心利益,而且也积极回应了全球性的挑战。
The formulation of his/her foreign policy strategy not only fully considered the core interests of the nation, but also actively responded to global challenges.
Detailing foreign policy's dual focus: national interest and global responsibility.
该教育改革方案不但致力于提升学生的学业成绩,而且也强调培养其终身学习的能力和健全的人格。
This educational reform plan not only aims to improve students' academic performance, but also emphasizes cultivating their lifelong learning ability and sound personality.
Describing educational reform's comprehensive goals: academic, personal growth, and lifelong learning.
此次技术突破不但解决了长期困扰行业的技术难题,而且也为相关产业的升级换代提供了强大的驱动力。
This technological breakthrough not only solved the technical difficulties that have long plagued the industry, but also provided a strong driving force for the upgrading and transformation of related industries.
Highlighting a breakthrough's impact on solving existing issues and fostering future industry development.
这位社会活动家不但为弱势群体争取了合法的权益,而且也成功地唤醒了公众的社会责任意识。
This social activist not only fought for the legal rights of vulnerable groups, but also successfully awakened the public's awareness of social responsibility.
Describing the dual achievements of an activist: securing rights and raising awareness.
该文学作品不但以其精妙的叙事结构著称,而且其对人性复杂性的深刻洞察也赢得了广泛赞誉。
This literary work is not only renowned for its exquisite narrative structure, but also its profound insight into the complexity of human nature has won widespread acclaim.
Connecting narrative skill with profound thematic exploration and critical reception.
该城市的转型发展不但实现了经济的多元化,而且也显著提升了居民的生活品质和幸福感。
The city's transformation and development not only achieved economic diversification, but also significantly improved the quality of life and sense of happiness for its residents.
Describing urban development's impact on both economic structure and citizen welfare.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— This is the core phrase, meaning 'not only... but also...'. It's used to connect two points, where the second point adds to or emphasizes the first.
他不但努力学习,而且成绩优异。
— This phrase means 'not only that' or 'not only so'. It's often used to introduce an additional, often more significant, point after a previous statement. It can sometimes stand alone or be followed by '而且'.
他考试没及格,不但如此,他还惹了老师生气。
— Sometimes '不但' can be used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce the first part of the 'not only' idea, with the expectation of '而且' or a similar conjunction following.
不但这个方法可行,其他方法也值得尝试。
— This is the second part of the correlative conjunction, meaning 'but also' or 'and also'. It introduces the additional point.
他不但聪明,而且也很有毅力。
— This is a variation often used when '也' (also) is used instead of '而且'. It still conveys the 'not only... but also...' meaning.
这不但是一个挑战,也是一个机会。
— Similar to using '也', '还' means 'also' or 'even more', and can be used with '不但' to connect two points.
这个软件不但功能强大,还操作简便。
— This is a more formal way to connect two points, using '并且' (furthermore, and) instead of '而且'.
该项目不但具有创新性,并且能够带来长远效益。
— In some contexts, '不但' might be used to introduce a clause that is then followed by a contrasting or additional idea introduced by a different conjunction, but the primary meaning of 'not only' is still present.
不但天气不好,而且我们也没有带伞。
— When '而且' appears without '不但' preceding it, it usually functions as a simple conjunction meaning 'and' or 'furthermore', connecting two clauses or phrases.
他很努力,而且非常聪明。
— This structure is not a direct synonym, but '甚至' (even) can sometimes follow '不但' to introduce an even more extreme or surprising point, emphasizing the 'even more so' aspect.
他不但会说汉语,甚至还会写毛笔字。
Often Confused With
'但是' means 'but' and is used to introduce a contrast or something unexpected. '不但' introduces an addition and is paired with '而且'.
'况且' means 'moreover' or 'besides' and is used to add a supporting reason or justification, often in a more formal context. It's not a direct substitute for the 'not only... but also...' structure.
'而且' is only the second part of the '不但...而且...' structure. While it can stand alone as 'and also' or 'furthermore', it doesn't carry the 'not only' meaning by itself.
Easily Confused
'不仅' is a very close synonym for '不但' and is often used interchangeably. The confusion arises from choosing between them.
'不但' and '不仅' both mean 'not only'. '不但' is perhaps slightly more common in everyday spoken Chinese, while '不仅' is also very widely used and can sometimes feel slightly more formal or literary, though the difference is minimal. In most contexts, they are interchangeable. For example, '他不但聪明,而且努力' and '他不仅聪明,而且努力' mean the same thing.
他不但聪明,而且努力。 (He is not only smart, but also hardworking.) 他不仅聪明,而且努力。 (He is not only smart, but also hardworking.)
'并且' can also connect two clauses and means 'and' or 'furthermore', similar to '而且'.
'并且' is a more general conjunction for adding information or connecting parallel clauses. '不但...而且...' specifically conveys the 'not only... but also...' meaning, emphasizing that both parts are true and often implying the second part is an additional or stronger point. You can use '并且' to connect two independent ideas, but '不但...而且...' specifically highlights the additive relationship where the first point is a prerequisite or foundation for the second.
他学习认真,并且乐于助人。(He studies diligently, and is also willing to help others.) - General connection. 他不但学习认真,而且乐于助人。(He not only studies diligently, but also is willing to help others.) - Emphasizes both diligence and helpfulness as key traits.
'也' means 'also' and can sometimes be used in place of '而且' after '不但' or '不仅'.
'而且' generally implies a stronger addition or a more significant aspect being added. '也' is a more neutral 'also' and might suggest a simpler addition or continuation of the same type of information. For example, '他不但会说汉语,而且会写汉字' (He not only speaks Chinese, but also writes Chinese characters - implying both are important skills). '他不但会说汉语,也懂日语' (He not only speaks Chinese, but also understands Japanese - a simpler addition of another language skill).
他不但会说汉语,而且会写汉字。(He not only speaks Chinese, but also writes Chinese characters.) 他不但会说汉语,也懂日语。(He not only speaks Chinese, but also understands Japanese.)
'还' means 'also' or 'still' and can be used similarly to '也' or '而且' in some additive contexts.
'还' can sometimes imply an 'even more' or 'in addition' nuance, potentially suggesting a slightly stronger emphasis on the second point than '也'. It's often used in informal contexts. While '而且' is the most standard partner for '不但', '还' can sometimes substitute for it. For example, '这个产品不但功能多,还价格实惠' (This product not only has many functions, but is also affordable) sounds natural and informal.
这个产品不但功能多,而且价格实惠。(Standard, neutral) 这个产品不但功能多,还价格实惠。(More informal, emphasizes the affordability as an added bonus.)
Both '不但' and '但是' start with '但'.
'不但' is part of the correlative conjunction '不但...而且...' meaning 'not only... but also...', used for addition. '但是' is a simple conjunction meaning 'but', used to introduce a contrast or opposing idea. They serve fundamentally different grammatical functions and convey opposite logical relationships.
他不但努力,而且聪明。(He is not only diligent, but also smart.) - Addition. 他很努力,但是没成功。(He worked hard, but did not succeed.) - Contrast.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 不但 + Adjective 1 + 而且 + Adjective 2
他不但高,而且很壮。
Subject + 不但 + Verb 1 + 而且 + Verb 2
我不但吃饭,而且喝水。
Subject + 不但 + Verb Phrase 1 + 而且 + Verb Phrase 2
她不但喜欢画画,而且喜欢唱歌。
Subject + 不但 + Noun Phrase 1 + 而且 + Noun Phrase 2
他不但是个好学生,而且是个好朋友。
Subject + 不但 + Clause 1 + 而且 + Clause 2
这个计划不但可行,而且会成功。
Subject + 不但 + Adverbial Phrase 1 + 而且 + Adverbial Phrase 2
他不但跑得快,而且跳得高。
Subject + 不但 + Verb + Object 1 + 而且 + Verb + Object 2
我们不但完成了任务,而且还超额完成了。
Subject + 不但 + Verb + Complement 1 + 而且 + Verb + Complement 2
他不但把事情做好了,而且做得非常出色。
Word Family
Related
How to Use It
Very High
-
Using '不但' without '而且' or a similar conjunction.
→
他不但努力学习,而且成绩优异。
'不但' is typically the first part of a correlative conjunction. Omitting '而且' leaves the sentence incomplete and grammatically awkward. The phrase functions as a unit.
-
Incorrect word order, e.g., placing '不但' after the subject in the second clause.
→
他不但学习努力,而且为人诚恳。
The structure is generally Subject + 不但 + Predicate 1 + 而且 + Predicate 2. Placing '不但' incorrectly disrupts the intended meaning and grammatical flow.
-
Lack of parallelism between the two connected parts.
→
她不但会唱歌,而且跳舞也很棒。
While not always strictly required, maintaining similar grammatical structures (e.g., verb phrase + verb phrase) for the parts connected by '不但' and '而且' makes the sentence clearer and more elegant. Connecting a simple verb phrase to a more complex clause can sound disjointed.
-
Using '不但' to simply add two unrelated items.
→
我喜欢苹果,而且喜欢香蕉。
'不但...而且...' implies a connection or an additive emphasis, where the second point often builds upon or is equally important to the first. For simple addition of unrelated items, '和' or just listing might be more appropriate.
-
Confusing '不但' with '但是'.
→
他不但努力学习,而且成绩优异。
'不但' is for addition ('not only... but also...'), while '但是' is for contrast ('but'). They have opposite logical functions.
Tips
Mastering the Pair
Remember that '不但' and '而且' work as a pair. Think of '不但' as introducing the first item and '而且' as adding the second, often more significant, item. They are like two pieces of a puzzle that fit together to create a complete picture.
Tone and Pause
Pay attention to the tones: 'bù dàn' (falling, falling) and 'ér qiě' (rising, rising). A slight pause between '不但' and '而且' can help clarify the structure, especially in spoken Chinese.
Parallelism is Key
For smooth and clear sentences, try to keep the grammatical structure of the part after '不但' similar to the part after '而且'. For example, if you use an adjective after '不但', use an adjective after '而且'.
Synonym Swap
Familiarize yourself with '不仅...而且...' as it's a very common alternative. Practicing with both will enhance your fluency and understanding.
Versatile Connector
This phrase is incredibly versatile. Use it to describe people, places, situations, skills, or opinions. It's a fundamental tool for adding depth and detail to your descriptions.
Visual Anchors
Create a visual image: '不但' is like a starting point, and '而且' is a bridge that leads to an even better destination. This visual can help you recall the additive and emphatic nature of the phrase.
Avoid Redundancy
Do not use '不但' to simply add two items without the 'not only' implication, and ensure you always have '而且' (or a suitable alternative) to complete the structure.
Sentence Building
Actively try to construct your own sentences using '不但...而且...' to describe things around you or your personal experiences. The more you practice, the more natural it will become.
Completeness in Expression
In Chinese communication, presenting a full picture is often valued. '不但...而且...' helps achieve this by allowing you to cover multiple important aspects of a subject, reflecting a tendency towards thoroughness.
Beyond Simple Addition
While it means 'not only... but also...', sometimes the '而且' part implies something more significant, surprising, or impactful than the first part, adding a layer of emphasis.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'Bù Dàn' as 'But Dann' (a name) who did something. Then 'Ér Qiě' as 'and also Chester' (another name) did something too. So, 'But Dann did this, and also Chester did that.' This helps remember the two parts and their additive meaning.
Visual Association
Imagine two separate boxes, each representing a point. The first box has a 'Not Only' sign, and the second box has a 'But Also' sign. Both boxes are connected by a strong, vibrant arrow showing information flowing from the first to the second, indicating addition and emphasis.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to create sentences using '不但...而且...' to describe your favorite hobbies, your family members, or your daily routine. Focus on adding at least two distinct but related pieces of information in each sentence.
Word Origin
The phrase '不但...而且...' is a correlative conjunction that developed over time in the Chinese language. Both '但' and '而' have ancient origins in Classical Chinese. '但' originally meant 'only' or 'but', and '而' served as a conjunction meaning 'and' or 'but'. The combination evolved into the specific structure we use today.
Original meaning: '但' (dàn) can be traced back to ancient characters related to 'stop' or 'but'. In Classical Chinese, it often functioned as a conjunction indicating a turn or a limitation. '而' (ér) is a very ancient character with multiple uses, including conjunctions like 'and', 'but', and 'therefore'. The specific pairing of '不但' and '而且' as a fixed phrase for 'not only... but also...' became established through common usage.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
This phrase is generally neutral and does not carry any specific cultural sensitivities. It is widely used across all demographics and contexts.
In English-speaking cultures, while 'not only... but also...' is common, there might be a greater tendency to use simpler conjunctions like 'and' or to separate points into distinct sentences if the emphasis isn't as strong. The Chinese structure often implies a slightly stronger connection and emphasis on the second part.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Describing a person's qualities
- 不但聪明,而且努力
- 不但善良,而且大方
- 不但有才华,而且勤奋
Describing a place or thing
- 不但漂亮,而且实用
- 不但好吃,而且便宜
- 不但方便,而且快捷
Discussing an event or situation
- 不但重要,而且紧急
- 不但有趣,而且有益
- 不但成功,而且有影响力
Talking about abilities or skills
- 不但能唱歌,而且能跳舞
- 不但会开车,而且会修车
- 不但懂数学,而且懂物理
Expressing opinions or evaluations
- 不但令人满意,而且超出预期
- 不但有创意,而且很成熟
- 不但有价值,而且有意义
Conversation Starters
"Can you think of something that is not only beautiful but also useful?"
"What's something that is not only difficult but also rewarding?"
"Describe a person who is not only kind but also very intelligent."
"What is something that is not only delicious but also healthy?"
"Can you give an example of something that is not only convenient but also fast?"
Journal Prompts
Write about a recent experience that was not only challenging but also taught you valuable lessons.
Describe a place you've visited that was not only visually stunning but also had a special atmosphere.
Think about a skill you possess. How is it not only useful in one area but also applicable in others?
Write about a book or movie that was not only entertaining but also made you think deeply.
Reflect on a personal goal. What are the multiple benefits you expect to gain, not only in achieving it but also in the process?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'不但...而且...' is a Chinese correlative conjunction that means 'not only... but also...'. It is used to connect two clauses or phrases, indicating that the second part adds further information or emphasis to the first. For example, '他不但聪明,而且努力' (Tā bù dàn cōngmíng, érqiě nǔlì) means 'He is not only smart, but also hardworking'.
Generally, '不但' functions as the first part of a pair. While '不但' can sometimes appear alone to introduce the first point, it's usually followed by '而且', '也', '还', or '并且' to complete the thought. Using '不但' alone without a subsequent additive conjunction can make the sentence incomplete or grammatically awkward.
Yes, the most common alternative is '不仅...而且...' (bù jǐn... ér qiě...), which is virtually interchangeable. Other variations include '不但...也...' (bù dàn... yě...), '不光...还...' (bù guāng... hái...), and '不但...并且...' (bù dàn... bìng qiě...), each with slight nuances in formality or emphasis.
The most common structure is: Subject + 不但 + Predicate 1 + 而且 + Predicate 2. Both predicates typically refer to the same subject, although it's possible to have different subjects in more complex sentences. The key is that both parts are logically connected and usually parallel in grammatical structure.
'不但' and '不仅' are largely interchangeable. '不但' might be slightly more common in everyday spoken Chinese, while '不仅' can sometimes feel a bit more formal or literary, but the distinction is subtle and often a matter of personal preference or regional usage. Both are widely understood and accepted.
Yes, '而且' can be used alone as a conjunction meaning 'and also' or 'furthermore' to connect two clauses or phrases. However, when used with '不但', it specifically forms the 'not only... but also...' structure.
The character '不' (bù) is a fourth-tone character. When it precedes another fourth-tone character like '但' (dàn), it typically remains 'bù' in standard Mandarin. However, in natural speech, it can sometimes sound like a neutral tone. It does not change to the third tone 'bú' in this specific combination.
'不但...而且...' expresses addition and emphasizes that both parts are true ('not only... but also...'). '虽然...但是...' expresses contrast or concession, indicating that the second part is true despite or contrary to the first part ('although... but...'). They represent opposite logical relationships.
Yes, '不但...而且...' is used in both spoken and written Chinese, including formal writing. Its alternative, '不仅...而且...', is also very common in formal contexts. The choice often depends on stylistic preference.
Yes, it can connect both clauses and phrases. For example, it can connect two adjectives ('不但漂亮,而且实用'), two verb phrases ('不但喜欢唱歌,而且喜欢跳舞'), or even two nouns if they are presented in a parallel structure that implies a predicate.
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Summary
Use '不但...而且...' to link two related points, where the second point adds to or emphasizes the first, essentially meaning 'not only... but also...'.
- Connects two ideas: 'not only... but also...'.
- Adds extra, often more important, information.
- Used in spoken and written Chinese.
- Essential for detailed descriptions.
Mastering the Pair
Remember that '不但' and '而且' work as a pair. Think of '不但' as introducing the first item and '而且' as adding the second, often more significant, item. They are like two pieces of a puzzle that fit together to create a complete picture.
Tone and Pause
Pay attention to the tones: 'bù dàn' (falling, falling) and 'ér qiě' (rising, rising). A slight pause between '不但' and '而且' can help clarify the structure, especially in spoken Chinese.
Parallelism is Key
For smooth and clear sentences, try to keep the grammatical structure of the part after '不但' similar to the part after '而且'. For example, if you use an adjective after '不但', use an adjective after '而且'.
Synonym Swap
Familiarize yourself with '不仅...而且...' as it's a very common alternative. Practicing with both will enhance your fluency and understanding.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
More general words
一下儿
A1a bit, a moment
点儿
A1a little bit
有点儿
A1a little, somewhat (negative connotation)
一下
A2A bit; a moment (used after a verb).
一点儿
A1a little, a bit
一会儿
A1a moment, a while
一部分
B1part; portion; minority
异样
B1different; unusual; strange
关于
A1about, concerning
快要
A2to be about to (happen)