Something many writers trip up on is properly using correlative conjunctions.
A correlative conjunction links elements like words, phrases, and clauses in a sentence. Some well-known examples are either…or, neither…nor, but…and, and, of course, not only…but also.
Of the bunch, “not only…but also” is probably the hardest to master.
Here are 4 tips to help you keep this pair straight.
1. No comma
You don’t need a comma after “not only”. Some people have it in their head that anytime you use popular conjunctions (such as but, and, or so), you must precede them with a comma. Only do so if the elements they are linking together are independent clauses.
2. Always include “also”
Because you include “only” with “not”, you must include “also” with “but”. It helps keeps the sentence structure parallel.
3. Double up the verb or place it at the beginning
Any verb you use in the “not only…but also” construction must be repeated after each part or before the entire construction.
Compare the following:
- I not only ate the jalapeños and the habaneros, but the scotch bonnets, too. (Incorrect)
- I ate not only the jalapeños and the habaneros but also the scotch bonnets. (Correct)
- I not only ate the jalapeños and the habaneros, but I also ate the scotch bonnets. (Correct, but wordier)
4. Keep helper verbs with their main verbs
Sometimes, auxiliary (or helper) verbs get separated from the main verbs when using the “not only…but also” construction. This makes for awkward wording, so try to keep the two verbs together. For example:
- Eating a dozen hot peppers at once may not only burn your mouth going in, but your other end going out, too.
- Eating a dozen hot peppers at once may burn not only your mouth going in but also your other end going out.
With these four tips, you’re easily on your way to becoming a correlative conjunction master.
