not only is

USAGE SUMMARY

"not only is" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to provide a comparison between two or more items or ideas that are similarly relevant. For example, "Not only is she a talented writer, but she is also a gifted painter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not only is this exhausting.

The Economist

Not only is "Duck!

The New York Times - Books

Not only is the water higher.

The New Yorker

Not only is this inconvenient, but impractical.

Harvard University

Not only is it a good compromise., Not only is it safe.

Yale University

Not only is there no power.

The Guardian

Not only is she a lady.

The New York Times

Worse, not only is there no respect.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Not only is it real – it's terrifying".

The Guardian

Not only is he tall, he's wide.

The New York Times - Arts

Anti-partisanship not only is futile, it can be dangerous.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not only is" to introduce a statement that will be followed by another, often surprising or noteworthy, piece of information. Make sure to balance the sentence with a coordinating conjunction such as "but also" to create a complete thought.

Common error

Avoid omitting the "but also" clause after using "not only is". Without it, the sentence can feel unfinished and grammatically incorrect. For example, instead of "Not only is it effective, it's cheap", write "Not only is it effective, but it's also cheap."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not only is" serves as an introductory element that sets up a comparison or addition, highlighting multiple attributes or aspects of a subject. It typically precedes the first characteristic being emphasized, with a coordinating conjunction like 'but also' completing the structure. According to Ludwig, this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not only is" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize multiple aspects of a subject, typically followed by a "but also" clause. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as academic contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse writing styles. To avoid common errors, ensure you always complete the parallel structure with a coordinating conjunction. Consider related phrases like "in addition to being" or "as well as being" for variety. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively incorporate "not only is" into your writing to create nuanced and impactful statements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's not only

Reorders the phrase, changing the emphasis slightly.

in addition to being

Replaces "not only is" with a prepositional phrase emphasizing the additional quality or state.

as well as being

Similar to "in addition to being", but with a slightly more informal tone.

besides being

Offers a more casual alternative, implying an additional, often unexpected, quality.

furthermore, it is

A more formal and emphatic way to introduce an additional point.

moreover, it is

Similar to "furthermore, it is", conveying a sense of progression and emphasis.

it is also

A simpler and more direct way to state an additional fact or quality.

on top of that, it is

An informal way to add another characteristic, often implying surprise or escalation.

not just is it

Inverts the original structure for emphasis, particularly in spoken English.

additionally, it functions as

Highlights an extra function or purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "not only is" in a sentence?

Use "not only is" to emphasize two related points about a subject. For example, "Not only is this restaurant affordable, but it also serves delicious food."

What's a more formal way to say "not only is"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "in addition to being" or "furthermore, it is". For example, "In addition to being skilled, she is also very dedicated."

Which is correct, "Not only is it" or "It is not only"?

"Not only is it" is generally preferred for emphasis at the beginning of a sentence. "It is not only" is also correct but places less emphasis on the initial point.

What can I say instead of "not only is" to sound less repetitive?

To avoid repetition, try alternatives such as "as well as being" or "besides being". These variations offer a similar meaning with slightly different emphasis.