not only can

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not only can" is correct and usable in written English.
You use this phrase to introduce a second possibility in addition to whatever has already been stated. For example, "Not only can you get a great deal on this item, but you can also find it in a variety of colors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not only can these actions cause tension, they are dangerous.

WikiHow

IT not only can happen here, it has happened here.

The New York Times

It not only can happen here, it is happening here.

The New York Times

Not only can power be blinding; it can be corruptive.

The New York Times

Not only can it, but it may have to.

The New York Times

Not only can you see in, but you can use the plans yourself".

The New York Times - Arts

Not only can all transactions be charged a fee, but bank runs are eliminated.

The Guardian - Opinion

(g) "Not only can I talk change with you, I've lived it".

The New Yorker

Not only can I not sing in tune, I cause others to fall off key.

The New Yorker

I not only can walk in front of them; I can stop.

The New Yorker

Not only can I do it: I find I love it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not only can", ensure you follow it with "but also" to clearly connect the two related capabilities or actions.

Common error

Avoid omitting the "but also" phrase after "not only can". This omission can make your sentence grammatically incomplete and confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not only can" functions as a correlative conjunction. It introduces the first part of a two-part structure, setting up an expectation for a subsequent "but also" clause. As Ludwig AI confirms, this structure is used to present two related capabilities or actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

36%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not only can" serves as a correlative conjunction, emphasizing multiple capabilities or actions. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Remember to always pair it with "but also" for grammatical completeness and clarity. It's prevalent in news, scientific, and general writing, indicating a neutral register. The usage examples on Ludwig showcase its versatility, reinforcing its value in effective communication. Pay attention to common mistakes, such as omitting "but also", to maintain grammatical accuracy in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not just can

Similar in structure but uses 'just' instead of 'only', slightly less formal.

can also

Simplified alternative, focuses on the additional action without the initial emphasis.

furthermore, it can

Uses 'furthermore' as a transitional phrase to introduce the additional capability.

in addition, it can

Similar to 'furthermore' but with a slightly different connective emphasis.

is also able to

Replaces 'can' with 'is able to', adding a degree of formality and explicitness.

it does not only

Restructures the sentence while keeping a similar meaning, slightly less common.

is capable of

Focuses on the inherent capability, shifting the emphasis away from the immediate action.

it is also possible to

Shifts the focus to possibility rather than capability.

it also has the ability to

A longer, more descriptive alternative emphasizing inherent ability.

it's not limited to

Implies additional capabilities beyond the stated one.

FAQs

How to use "not only can" in a sentence?

Use "not only can" to introduce one capability, followed by "but also" to introduce a second related capability. For example, "Not only can it fly, but it can also swim."

What can I say instead of "not only can"?

You can use alternatives like "can also", "is also able to", or "not just can depending on the context."

Which is correct, "not only can" or "only can"?

"Not only can" is the grammatically correct and idiomatic phrase to introduce an additional capability or action. "Only can" is incomplete and not commonly used.

What's the difference between "not only can" and "in addition, it can"?

"Not only can" emphasizes that something has multiple capabilities, while "in addition it can" simply adds another capability without the same emphasis on multiplicity.