not merely because

USAGE SUMMARY

"not merely because" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to introduce a more detailed explanation for a certain action or opinion. For example: "I decided to attend the conference, not merely because I enjoyed the topic, but also because I thought it would be a great networking opportunity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

[5] Notable not merely because it comes in two parts.

The New York Times

Not merely because he tapes without saying so.

Independent

This is not merely because economic forecasting is difficult.

The New York Times

Not merely because it plays on a friendship.

Independent

The gown was well received not merely because it was pretty — or flawless, actually.

The New York Times

Now it is splintering, and not merely because of the SNP.

The Economist

This time, no feminist umbrage rang out — and not merely because Weiner is a liberal Democrat.

The New York Times

Not merely because it plays on the fear of a front page.

Independent

That is not merely because of her poverty, or that of Sierra Leone.

The New York Times - Health

Traditional marketing is collapsing – not merely because of costs, but because commercial activity is distrusted.

The Guardian - Film

Crying not merely because she lost a match, not just because she had been beaten soundly.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not merely because" to add nuance when addressing potentially simplistic explanations. It signals that a deeper analysis or understanding is required.

Common error

Avoid stating "not merely because" without providing the subsequent, more important reason. Doing so creates a sense of incompleteness and can confuse the reader. Always follow up with the full explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not merely because" functions as a causal connector, introducing a reason that is considered secondary or less important than the one that will follow. It sets up a contrast, indicating that there's a more significant explanation to consider, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not merely because" functions as a causal connector, introducing a secondary reason and signaling a more significant explanation to follow. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various sources, particularly in news and media. While phrases like "not only because" and "not just because" offer similar meanings, it’s important to always provide a complete explanation after using "not merely because" to avoid confusing the reader. This ensures clarity and strengthens the overall impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not only because

Adds emphasis by indicating other reasons exist.

not just because

Indicates simplicity or reduction of focus.

not simply because

Highlights the complexity of the situation beyond an obvious reason.

not solely because

Emphasizes the multifaceted nature of a cause.

not exclusively because

Indicates that other contributing factors are present.

not entirely because

Suggests a partial contribution from another factor.

not primarily because

Focuses on secondary rather than primary reasons.

not mainly because

Similar to 'not primarily', downplaying a main factor.

not principally because

Highlights the less important reasons among several others.

partially due to

Indicates that something is caused in part by a specified factor.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "not merely because" in my writing?

You can use alternatives such as "not only because", "not just because", or "not simply because" to introduce an additional or more important reason.

What does "not merely because" imply in a sentence?

The phrase "not merely because" implies that there is a more significant or compelling reason beyond the one that might be immediately apparent or previously stated. It prompts the reader to consider a deeper level of explanation.

Is it grammatically correct to use "not merely because"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to use "not merely because". It's a common and accepted way to introduce a secondary or less significant reason before presenting the primary one.

How do I avoid misusing "not merely because" in my writing?

Ensure that you always provide the follow-up explanation. After stating "not merely because", clarify the primary or more significant reason to complete the thought and avoid leaving the reader with an incomplete understanding.