Processing keyword: 非但 (fēidàn) - Not only

Mandarin Grammar Point: 非但 (fēidàn) - Not only

Grammar Point: 非但 (fēidàn) - Not only

1. Introduction

The phrase 非但 (fēidàn) translates to "not only" in English and is used to emphasize that something is true beyond just a single aspect or example. It is often employed in a comparative context, similar to "not only... but also..."

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: 非但 indicates that the statement following it is not limited to one situation; rather, it opens a path to further elaboration or examples.
• Structure: The structure of 非但 is typically:

  非但 + [Statement A] + ，+ [Statement B]
  

  • Statement A introduces the first part of the thought.
  • Statement B expands on it, often introducing additional examples or confirming the initial statement.

Formation Diagram

       +--------------------+
       |                    |
       |  非但 （fēidàn）     |
       |                    |
       +--------------------+
                  |
          +----------------+
          |                |
   +---------------+  +-----------------+
   | Statement A   |  | Statement B     |
   +---------------+  +-----------------+

3. Comparative Analysis

非但 is similar to the phrase 不仅 (bùjǐn), which also means "not only." However, 非但 is often considered slightly more formal. While both can be used to introduce a contrast or comparison, 非但 typically implies a broader or more emphatic extension of the thought.

• Example:
  • 不仅...而且... (bùjǐn... érqiě...) - Not only... but also...
  • 非但...而且... (fēidàn... érqiě...) - Not only... but also... (more emphatic)

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:
   • 非但他在工作上表现出色，，而且在教育上也贡献良多。
   • (fēidàn tā zài gōngzuò shàng biǎoxiàn chūsè, érqiě zài jiàoyù shàng yě gòngxiàn liángduō.)
   • Not only does he excel in his work, but he has also made significant contributions to education.
2. Informal Context:
   • 这家餐厅非但菜好吃，而且环境也很舒服。
   • (zhè jiā cāntīng fēidàn cài hǎochī, érqiě huánjìng yě hěn shūfú.)
   • This restaurant not only has delicious food but also a very comfortable environment.
3. Spoken Context:
   • 昨天的比赛非但我赢了，朋友们也都支持我。
   • (zuótiān de bǐsài fēidàn wǒ yíngle, péngyǒumen yě dōu zhīchí wǒ.)
   • Not only did I win the game yesterday, but my friends also supported me.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Chinese culture, showing respect and acknowledging multiple aspects of a situation is important. Using 非但 can convey a sense of humility and acknowledgment of others' contributions, which aligns with the values of collectivism often observed in Chinese society.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 非但这样 (fēidàn zhèyàng): Not only this way...
• 这非但不是个问题 (zhè fēidàn bù shì gè wèntí): This is not only not a problem...

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Incorrectly using 非但 in casual settings where 不仅 would be more appropriate.
• Tip: Use 非但 in more formal communications; otherwise, stick to 不仅 for everyday conversations.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember "非但" as "Fay Dan" — think of "Fay" being fancy for formal situations, implying its use in formal contexts.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 非但 means "not only" and introduces a statement that expands upon another.
• It is more formal than 不仅 but serves a similar purpose in language.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does 非但 mean in English?
2. How is the structure of a sentence using 非但 typically composed?
3. Provide an example of a sentence using 非但 in a formal context. Answers:
4. Not only
5. 非但 + [Statement A] + ，+ [Statement B]
6. [Example of your choice from the previous section]