Processing keyword: 不仅…还… (bùjǐn… hái…) - Not only... but also...

Mandarin Grammar Point: 不仅…还… (bùjǐn… hái…) - Not only... but also...

不仅… 还… (bùjǐn… hái…) - Not only... but also...

1. Introduction

The phrase 不仅… 还… (bùjǐn… hái…) is a common structure in Mandarin that is used to express the idea of "not only... but also...". This grammar point is essential for emphasizing the addition of information or characteristics, showcasing multiple attributes or actions.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Structure:
  • 不仅 (bùjǐn) + [first element] + 还 (hái) + [second element]
• Meaning: The phrase conveys that something has at least two notable attributes or actions, emphasizing the second part as an addition to the first.

Formation Diagram

 [ Subject ] 不仅 [ Trait/Action 1 ] 还 [ Trait/Action 2 ]

Example Breakdown

• 这本书不仅有趣，还很有用。
  • (zhè běn shū bùjǐn yǒuqù, hái hěn yǒuyòng)
  • Translation: This book is not only interesting but also very useful.

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• 不仅... 而且... (bùjǐn... érqiě...): Both express "not only... but also...". However, 不仅... 而且... (bùjǐn... érqiě...) is often seen as slightly more formal than 不仅... 还... (bùjǐn... hái...).
  • Example: 这部电影不仅好看，而且感人。(zhè bù diànyǐng bùjǐn hǎokàn, érqiě gǎnrén.)
  • Translation: This movie is not only entertaining but also moving.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:

   • 这个会议不仅对业界有影响，还能促进国际合作。
     • (zhège huìyì bùjǐn duì yèjiè yǒu yǐngxiǎng, hái néng cùjìn guójì hézuò.)
     • Translation: This conference not only influences the industry but also promotes international cooperation.

2. Informal:

   • 她不仅会唱歌，还会跳舞。
     • (tā bùjǐn huì chànggē, hái huì tiàowǔ.)
     • Translation: She not only can sing but also can dance.

3. Written:

   • 学生不仅需要掌握知识，还需提升实践能力。
     • (xuéshēng bùjǐn xūyào zhǎngwò zhīshì, hái xū tíshēng shíjiàn nénglì.)
     • Translation: Students not only need to master knowledge but also to enhance practical abilities.

4. Spoken:

   • 这个地方不仅风景好，还是个休闲的好去处。
     • (zhège dìfāng bùjǐn fēngjǐng hǎo, hái shìgè xiūxián de hǎo qùchù.)
     • Translation: This place is not only scenic but also a great place for relaxation.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Chinese culture, emphasizing positive attributes through language is a common practice, reflecting a tendency to appreciate multiple facets. The use of 不仅... 还... is prevalent in polite conversation to express admiration or approval.

Idiomatic Expressions

• "不但如此，还..." (bùdàn rúcǐ, hái...) - Not only this, but also...

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Using 不但 instead of 不仅: While 不但 (bùdàn) can also mean "not only," it is more common in literary contexts; therefore, 不仅 is preferred in conversational Mandarin.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of "不" (bù) as "no," and "仅" (jǐn) as "only." Together, they highlight what is not only limited to one aspect, leading to the inclusion of "还" (hái) for more.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 不仅… 还… (bùjǐn… hái…) is used to indicate that something has more than one notable quality or action.
• It is a versatile structure employed in both formal and informal contexts.
• The structure can be synonymous with 不仅… 而且… (bùjǐn… érqiě…) but is often considered more casual.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Translate the sentence: "The food is not only delicious but also affordable."
2. What is the difference between 不仅… 还… and 不仅… 而且…?

Feel free to ask if you have any additional questions or would like more examples!