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

In this lesson, we will explore the grammar structure "不仅...还..." (bùjǐn...hái...), which is used to express that not only is one statement true, but an additional statement is also true. This structure adds emphasis and is commonly used in both spoken and written Mandarin.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The structure "不仅...还..." is used to indicate that more than one condition or statement is applicable. It emphasizes that something is more significant than just its initial quality.
• Structure:
  • 不仅 (bùjǐn) - "not only"
  • 还 (hái) - "but also"

Formation Diagram

不仅 + A + 还 + B

Where:

• A is the first statement
• B is the second statement that is equally true or additional.

Example:

• English: Not only is she beautiful, but she is also intelligent.
• Mandarin: 她不仅漂亮，还聪明。(Tā bùjǐn piàoliang, hái cōngmíng.)

3. Comparative Analysis

This structure is similar to "不仅而且" (bùjǐn érqiě) - "not only but also", but "还" (hái) can give a slightly less formal tone. The use of "而且" (érqiě) often conveys a more serious or formal context.

Example Comparison:

• 不仅...还... (bùjǐn...hái...)

  • 她不仅喜欢旅游，还喜欢摄影。(She not only likes to travel, but also photography.)

• 不仅...而且... (bùjǐn...érqiě...)

  • 她不仅喜欢旅游，而且喜欢摄影。(She not only likes to travel, but also photography, but this appears more formal.)

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:
   • 这个城市不仅有丰富的文化，还吸引了很多游客。
   • (Zhège chéngshì bùjǐn yǒu fēngfù de wénhuà, hái xīyǐnle hěnduō yóukè.)
   • This city not only has a rich culture, but also attracts many tourists.
2. Informal Context:
   • 他不仅会唱歌，还会跳舞。
   • (Tā bùjǐn huì chànggē, hái huì tiàowǔ.)
   • He not only can sing, but also dance.
3. Written Context:
   • 这本书不仅内容丰富，还具有很高的学术价值。
   • (Zhè běn shū bùjǐn nèiróng fēngfù, hái jùyǒu hěn gāo de xuéshù jiàzhí.)
   • This book not only has rich content, but also possesses a high academic value.
4. Spoken Context:
   • 这个菜不仅好吃，还很健康。
   • (Zhège cài bùjǐn hǎochī, hái hěn jiànkāng.)
   • This dish is not only delicious, but also very healthy.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Using "不仅...还..." in conversation reflects a positive and complimentary nature, often used to express admiration. In Chinese culture, expressing both aspects of a person's qualities or achievements is seen as a way to show depth and appreciation.

Levels of Politeness

This structure is generally neutral in terms of formality; however, using it can show a level of respect and acknowledgment towards the subject.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 常有不但如此 (cháng yǒu bù dàn rú cǐ) - "Not only like this" can be seen as a variation emphasizing multiple qualities.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Common Mistake: Using only "不...也..." (bù...yě...) instead of "不仅...还...".
  • Incorrect: 她不漂亮，也聪明。
  • Correct: 她不仅漂亮，还聪明。

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that "不仅" starts with "b" for "but", and "还" can be thought of as "additionally". This helps recall that both functions emphasize multiple qualities.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• The structure "不仅...还..." is used to emphasize two related statements.
• It conveys a richer sense of expression by affirming the value of multiple attributes or actions.
• It is slightly less formal compared to "不仅...而且...".

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Translate the following sentence: "Not only is this car fast, but it is also economical."
2. Which structure is more formal: "不仅...还..." or "不仅...而且..."?
3. Give an example of using "不仅...还..." in a sentence about a hobby. Feel free to review these elements and practice using "不仅...还..." in your conversations!