not just the

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not just the" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used to introduce an additional object or element to an existing statement. For example: "I like to eat a variety of foods, not just the same thing every day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not just the locals..."....

Independent

not just the Kremlin.

The New York Times

Not just the word.

The New Yorker

It's not just the city.

The New York Times

Not just the bloody salad.

Independent

"It's not just the poems.

The New Yorker

It's not just the shoulder.

The New York Times - Food

It's not just the recession.

The New York Times

"It's not just the clothes.

The New York Times

"Not just the contested ones.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's not just the composer.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not just the", ensure that the additional elements you introduce are relevant and contribute meaningfully to the overall message. Avoid adding tangential points that dilute the impact of your statement.

Common error

Ensure that when you introduce additional elements after "not just the", you provide enough context or detail about these elements. Leaving them vague can confuse the reader and undermine the purpose of expanding the scope.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not just the" functions as an intensifier and scope-broadener. It serves to emphasize that a given subject includes additional elements or aspects beyond what might be initially assumed. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correctly used across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Academia

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not just the" is a versatile and commonly used expression to broaden the scope of a statement beyond an initial element. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure to provide sufficient detail about the additional elements you're introducing. Consider alternatives such as "but also" or "more than simply the" for variety, and avoid using "only the" when you intend to include other factors. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "not just the" to add depth and accuracy to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but also

This alternative explicitly adds another element or aspect, similar to expanding on an initial idea.

not only the

Similar to "but also", this emphasizes the inclusion of another item.

and more than

Emphasizes that the subject involves something beyond the initial focus.

not merely the

Highlights that the subject goes beyond a limited or basic aspect.

beyond just the

This clearly indicates an extension or expansion beyond a specific element.

more than simply the

Stresses the existence of additional factors or elements.

as well as the

This alternative highlights that, in addition to a given subject, something else must be considered.

in addition to the

This option directly adds additional information to the original statement.

encompasses more than

This version suggests a broader scope that exceeds the initial aspect.

extends beyond the

Directly communicates that the topic covers more than one aspect.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "not just the" in a sentence?

Use "not just the" to emphasize that something involves more than one aspect or element. For example, "The problem is affecting "not just the city", but the entire region."

What's a formal alternative to "not just the"?

In more formal contexts, consider using "not merely the" or "not solely the". These alternatives provide a similar meaning but with a slightly more sophisticated tone. For example, "The issue concerns "not merely the economy", but also social stability."

How does "not just the" differ from "only the"?

"Not just the" indicates that something includes additional elements, while "only the" limits the scope to a single element. Using the correct phrase is crucial for accurate communication. "Not just the winning, but the teamwork matters" implies teamwork is also important. "Only the winning matters" suggests nothing else is significant.

Can I replace "not just the" with "not only the"?

Yes, "not only the" is a very similar alternative and can often be used interchangeably. However, "not only the" typically implies a more direct and explicit addition of elements. Example: "It's "not only the money", but also the prestige."