Making your message connect especially when you wish to highlight several crucial points depends on clear and varied communication. Although “not only” is a common way to signal contrast or dual emphasis, many other phrases may enhance your writing with elegance, subtlety, and accuracy.
This manual offers 50 suitable substitutes for “not only”, whether improving your language for a professional context or just wanting to improve your writing style. Every choice includes concise descriptions, illustrations, and recommendations on when to use it most effectively. Let’s get right in and increase your toolbox for more powerful and expressive communication.
What is “Not Only”?
Usually followed by “but also,” the conjunction “not only” presents the first portion of a comparison or a complex notion. It stresses that more than one trait, behaviour, or fact is relevant. For instance: “She is industrious as well as intelligent.” It highlights a sentence and generates momentum.
Saying “Not only” is professional/polite?
Yes, “not just” is business-appropriate and respectful. Frequently used in formal correspondence, speeches, and business writing, it emphasizes several strengths or positive results. It shows a careful and precise means of conveying complicated concepts and comparisons.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using “Not Only”
Advantages
- Enhances emphasis and structure in writing.
- Helps present ideas with added weight and clarity.
- Makes communication more persuasive and balanced.
Disadvantages
- Can sound overly formal or academic if overused.
- It may confuse readers if the sentence structure isn’t clear or properly paired with “but also.”
- It can be unnecessary in casual or straightforward communication.
When to Use It “Not Only”
Use it not just when highlighting two linked ideas, especially in persuasive writing or speeches. One should underline either the features or the benefits of something, as in ideas, papers, or résumés. Example: “Not only did we reach our objectives, but we also exceeded expectations.”
What tone does “Not Only”?
Usually formal, bold, and upbeat, “not only” has a particular tone. Particularly in corporate or academic settings, it projects refinement and confidence. The phrase raises the language level by displaying contrast or emphasizing combined benefits.
When to avoid this “Not Only”
In informal chats, text messages, or when the comparison is too simple to justify such structure, resist employing “not only.” Additionally, avoid it if clarity might suffer, particularly in complicated sentences that could make the message more difficult to follow.
Professional Alternatives of “Not Only”
1. Along with
Meaning: Together or in combination with
Definition: Connects two things that are presented together
Explanation: Suggests partnership or coexistence between two points
Example: She brings strong data analysis capabilities along with her leadership skills.
Best Use: Cover letters, evaluations, or collaborative writing
Worst Use: When the listed items aren’t truly complementary
Tone: Cooperative and inclusive.
2. Likewise
Meaning: In the same way or similarly
Definition: Indicates that something is similar or equally true
Explanation: Helps reinforce consistency or symmetry between two ideas
Example: She handled the budget well. Likewise, her scheduling was flawless.
Best Use: Comparative writing, evaluations, business communication
Worst Use: When the comparison feels forced or vague
Tone: Smooth and reflective.
3. Additionally
Meaning: In addition to what has been said
Definition: Used to add more information that supports or extends an idea
Explanation: Polished and straightforward, often used in structured writing
Example: Additionally, the software offers multi-language support.
Best Use: Business documents, product features, formal reports
Worst Use: When overused in informal writing, it can sound robotic
Tone: Neutral and formal.
4. Not just that
Meaning: There’s more than what was just stated
Definition: Emphasizes that an earlier point is not the only relevant one
Explanation: Builds anticipation and introduces a second positive or surprising fact.
Example: Not just that, she improved the system’s performance by 30%.
Best Use: Presentations, storytelling, engaging writing
Worst Use: Legal or highly technical documents
Tone: Conversational and energetic.
5. What’s more
Meaning: And additionally, there’s an even stronger point
Definition: Introduces another noteworthy or exciting fact
Explanation: Great for building excitement or showcasing added value
Example: The app is easy to use. What’s more, it’s completely free.
Best Use: Marketing content, persuasive writing, pitches
Worst Use: Very formal business communication
Tone: Warm, engaging, and informal.
6. On top of that
Meaning: In addition to everything mentioned
Definition: Adds another layer of value or challenge
Explanation: A casual and upbeat way to stack benefits or facts
Example: She completed the report early. On top of that, she helped train a new hire.
Best Use: Team updates, casual emails, newsletters
Worst Use: Research papers or academic reports
Tone: Friendly and energetic.
7. Beyond that
Meaning: Going even further than previously mentioned
Definition: Adds an extra, often unexpected detail
Explanation: Suggests something that surpasses expectations or limits
Example: He delivered results. Beyond that, he brought innovative ideas.
Best Use: Presentations, persuasive writing
Worst Use: Where subtlety is more appropriate
Tone: Confident and expansive.
8. Side by side with
Meaning: Working closely or in conjunction with
Definition: Conveys partnership or synchronization
Explanation: Suggests mutual support or aligned efforts
Example: She worked alongside the legal team throughout the negotiation.
Best Use: Teamwork context, collaboration summaries
Worst Use: Abstract or non-relational topics
Tone: Supportive and collaborative
9. In support of that
Meaning: To strengthen or validate a prior point
Definition: Adds reinforcement to an earlier statement
Explanation: Often used to introduce evidence or an additional reason
Example: In support of that, survey results showed a 90% satisfaction rate.
Best Use: Research, analysis, proposals
Worst Use: When making emotional or informal statements
Tone: Logical and factual
10. In unison with
Meaning: Working in perfect harmony or alignment
Definition: Expresses coordinated effort or shared intention
Explanation: Highlights seamless collaboration between people or parts
Example: The marketing team worked in unison with development to meet the deadline.
Best Use: Describing unity in collaborative efforts
Worst Use: Solitary tasks or when efforts are not truly collaborative
Tone: Harmonious and intentional
11. Not just
Meaning: Indicates that more is true than what was first mentioned
Definition: Emphasizes that there’s an additional impressive or essential quality
Explanation: Great for showcasing strengths or achievements beyond the obvious
Example: Not just a brilliant designer—she’s also an incredible mentor.
Best Use: Storytelling, introductions, bios, praise
Worst Use: Extremely formal settings without a whole structure (e.g., lacking “but also”)
Tone: Admiring, enthusiastic, and expressive
12. And not just that
Meaning: There’s even more to be impressed by
Definition: Introduces an even stronger or surprising second point
Explanation: Builds excitement or creates a sense of “wow” in a message
Example: He closed the deal in record time, and not just that, he brought in two new clients.
Best Use: Presentations, team recognition, speeches
Worst Use: Overused in serious or technical reports
Tone: Energetic and engaging
13. On top of everything
Meaning: Beyond all that’s already been mentioned
Definition: Highlights an extra point after a list of notable things
Explanation: Adds weight and builds momentum in a list of achievements or facts.
Example: She handled operations, trained the new staff, and on top of everything, increased monthly revenue.
Best Use: Team updates, informal emails, praise
Worst Use: Highly technical or detail-oriented documentation
Tone: Informal, impressed, and sincere
14. And there’s more
Meaning: Indicates that something extra or surprising is coming
Definition: Builds suspense and adds curiosity about what’s next
Explanation: Often used in speech or persuasive writing to build emotional energy
Example: This quarter, we launched in three countries—and there are more. We just signed a major distribution deal.
Best Use: Pitches, storytelling, newsletters
Worst Use: Academic or factual analysis
Tone: Curious, engaging, and energetic
15. Not to mention
Meaning: As well as, without even bringing up…
Definition: Used to sneak in an additional point or benefit as if it’s obvious or expected
Explanation: A subtle way to emphasize something without sounding like you’re bragging
Example: She’s easily handled multiple clients, not to mention leading two major campaigns.
Best Use: Persuasive writing, conversational business communication, storytelling
Worst Use: Legal writing or technical manuals
Tone: Understated but impactful, slightly playful
16. To say nothing of
Meaning: And that’s without even bringing up…
Definition: Used to introduce an additional impressive or important detail as if it goes without saying
Explanation: This phrase builds on something already substantial and implies there’s even more that hasn’t been fully explored
Example: She handled client outreach, logistics, and budgeting, not to mention the 20% cost savings she delivered.
Best Use: Persuasive writing, speeches, or when layering strengths
Worst Use: Casual texts or when clarity is more important than style
Tone: Impressive, elegant, and slightly dramatic
17. Much less
Meaning: And certainly not; even more unlikely
Definition: A way to emphasize that the second item is even less likely or expected than the first
Explanation: Similar to “let alone,” it’s often used when emphasizing impossibility, challenge, or surprise
Example: He didn’t greet us, much less apologize.
Best Use: Expressing limitations, frustrations, or disbelief
Worst Use: Positive or promotional writing—it implies a negative tone
Tone: Critical, firm, or realistic
18. It goes further
Meaning: And there’s even more depth or detail to this
Definition: Used when something already impressive extends into additional territory
Explanation: Great for describing multi-layered benefits or achievements
Example: The platform improves efficiency—it goes further by offering real-time analytics.
Best Use: Product or service descriptions, strategic messaging, reports
Worst Use: Informal or brief conversations—it’s best when you’re building a case
Tone: Progressive and confident
19. As if that weren’t enough
Meaning: And there’s still more to be amazed by
Definition: Used to introduce an additional impressive or surprising element
Explanation: Adds flair and surprise—almost like saying, “Can you believe it keeps going?”
Example: She redesigned the website in a week and created all the graphics.
Best Use: Celebrating accomplishments, storytelling, or motivational writing
Worst Use: Academic writing or anything requiring a neutral tone
Tone: Enthusiastic, dramatic, and playful
20. And what’s even better
Meaning: Here’s something that tops it all
Definition: Signals that the next point is the most exciting or impressive of all
Explanation: Great for highlighting a “wow factor” after building up other details
Example: The course is affordable and flexible; even better, you can finish it at your own pace.
Best Use: Promotions, presentations, or building emotional impact
Worst Use: Technical documentation or legal contracts
Tone: Warm, inviting, and upbeat
21. This includes
Meaning: Part of a list or set of examples
Definition: Introduces one or more items that support or illustrate the point
Explanation: Smoothly leads into supporting details without sounding repetitive
Example: She brings a range of talents. This includes graphic design, copywriting, and branding.
Best Use: Emails, proposals, descriptive writing
Worst Use: When trying to make an emotional or storytelling point, it can sound mechanical
Tone: Clear, informative, and neutral
22. As a secondary point
Meaning: A supportive idea that follows the main one
Definition: Brings in a lesser but still relevant detail
Explanation: Shows thoughtfulness and layered reasoning
Example: Cost savings is the key benefit. As a secondary point, the upgrade also improves usability.
Best Use: Structured writing, business cases, or argument-building
Worst Use: Conversational or expressive writing—it sounds dry
Tone: Balanced and methodical
23. Holding on both fronts
Meaning: Proving valid or consistent in two ways
Definition: Used when a claim or result applies to more than one situation or aspect
Explanation: Emphasizes dependability or success in multiple areas
Example: The new strategy improved morale and increased productivity, holding on both fronts.
Best Use: Project evaluations, executive summaries
Worst Use: Highly technical documents—it’s more conversational than academic
Tone: Balanced, slightly informal, and confident
24. From both angles
Meaning: Seen as beneficial or valid from two different perspectives
Definition: Introduces dual viewpoints that agree or complement each other
Explanation: Helpful for making an argument more relatable or fair
Example: The decision makes sense financially and culturally—from both angles, it’s sound.
Best Use: Negotiation summaries, opinion writing, strategy briefs
Worst Use: Legal documentation where precision is required
Tone: Reasonable, open-minded, and inclusive
25. Similarly expressed
Meaning: Communicated comparably.
Definition: Used to draw parallels in communication or behaviour.
Explanation: Ideal when pointing out alignment or similarity.
Example: Team values were similarly expressed during onboarding.
Best Use: HR, training documentation.
Worst Use: Everyday chat.
Tone: Professional, formal, thoughtful.
26. Brought out again in
Meaning: Highlighted once more through another situation.
Definition: Reinforces the presence of a repeated trait.
Explanation: Points to repeated excellence or value.
Example: Her leadership was brought out again in the crisis response.
Best Use: Recognition, storytelling.
Worst Use: If the repetition is forced or irrelevant.
Tone: Affirmative, respectful, appreciative.
27. With the added benefit
Meaning: Including an extra advantage or positive outcome
Definition: Introduces something additional that improves or strengthens the initial point
Explanation: Used to highlight a bonus element that builds on something already positive
Example: The new software is easier to use, with the added benefit of improved data security.
Best Use: Product descriptions, business pitches, proposals
Worst Use: Overuse in casual writing—it may sound sales
Tone: Promotional, optimistic, and professional
28. As a cherry on top
Meaning: A bonus that makes something already good even better
Definition: A final positive detail that adds delight or completeness
Explanation: Often used to close a list of benefits with a flourish
Example: The service includes free updates, 24/7 support, and, as a cherry on top, a loyalty reward program.
Best Use: Customer communications, presentations, casual business writing
Worst Use: Formal or legal writing
Tone: Cheerful, light-hearted, and expressive
29. Also shining in
Meaning: Excelling or standing out in another area
Definition: A figurative way to describe someone or something performing well in more than one space
Explanation: Conveys positivity with a creative edge.
Example: He’s a skilled engineer who also shines in cross-team collaboration.
Best Use: Bios, internal praise, testimonials
Worst Use: Factual or legal documents
Tone: Warm, expressive, and appreciative
30. Mirrored by
Meaning: Reflected in a similar or parallel way
Definition: Shows that one quality or action is replicated in another
Explanation: Ideal when showing alignment, balance, or intentional design
Example: The brand’s tone is mirrored by its customer service approach.
Best Use: Marketing, tone guides, culture documents
Worst Use: Data-heavy or technical analysis
Tone: Polished, reflective, and intentional.
31. With equal brilliance
Meaning: Performed or delivered just as impressively
Definition: Suggests two things are both outstanding in their own right
Explanation: Great for emphasizing dual talents, achievements, or efforts
Example: She leads with vision and executes with equal brilliance.
Best Use: Professional bios, award descriptions, praise
Worst Use: Overuse in casual or critical feedback can sound overblown.
Tone: Celebratory, admiring, and eloquent.
32. Sharing the spotlight
Meaning: Both parts or people deserve equal recognition
Definition: Indicates that two elements are equally essential or impressive
Explanation: Use when credit is shared between roles, features, or ideas
Example: The innovative design shares the spotlight with a flawless user experience.
Best Use: Team introductions, dual feature launches, collaboration highlights
Worst Use: Formal reports where tone needs to stay neutral
Tone: Appreciative, fair, and balanced.
33. Matching that with
Meaning: Pairing something with an equally strong quality or result
Definition: Indicates balance or complementary strength
Explanation: Suggests that a second quality rises to meet the standard of the first
Example: She brings vision to the team, matching that with hands-on problem-solving.
Best Use: Leadership profiles, project pitches, resumes
Worst Use: When the match isn’t precise or is uneven
Tone: Symmetrical, polished, and balanced.
34. With a second wave of strength
Meaning: Introducing another boost or layer of power
Definition: Suggests momentum, growth, or added energy after the initial impact
Explanation: Best used to convey continuous improvement or compounding effects
Example: The product impacted in Q1, and thanks to user feedback, it experienced a second wave of strength in Q2.
Best Use: Strategy reviews, launch updates, marketing reports
Worst Use: Technical documentation—it’s more figurative than literal
Tone: Motivational, dynamic, and growth-focused.
35. Not exclusively… but rather
Meaning: It’s not just this one thing—it’s something more fitting
Definition: Clarifies or shifts the focus to a more accurate or comprehensive description
Explanation: Great when correcting assumptions or broadening understanding
Example: Not exclusively a financial tool, but a complete business management platform.
Best Use: Product descriptions, clarifications, redefinitions
Worst Use: Overly casual writing—it can sound formal
Tone: Clarifying, thoughtful, and precise.
36. More than simply
Meaning: Beyond what it appears on the surface
Definition: Suggests an added layer of importance or value
Explanation: Adds depth and dimension to your point
Example: The workshop is more than simply informative—it’s transformative.
Best Use: Event descriptions, reflections, reviews
Worst Use: Scientific papers—it’s too abstract
Tone: Reflective, inspiring, and emotional
37. It doesn’t stop at
Meaning: There’s still more value beyond what’s been listed.
Definition: Indicates continuation beyond the current point.
Explanation: Used to build momentum and curiosity.
Example: The membership offers networking and resources, but it doesn’t stop at that.
Best Use: Promotional content, product features, landing pages.
Worst Use: Scientific or overly formal writing.
Tone: Dynamic, inviting, and optimistic.
38. This extends to
Meaning: Continues into another area or applies further
Definition: Used to show that an idea, feature, or effect has a broader reach
Explanation: Adds breadth to your point without overexplaining
Example: The company values transparency. This extends to how we handle customer feedback.
Best Use: Policy documents, culture writing, leadership statements
Worst Use: Emotion-heavy writing—it’s more functional
Tone: Calm, professional, and inclusive
39. But it doesn’t end there
Meaning: There’s still more to come.
Definition: Suggests continuity or an ongoing benefit.
Explanation: Builds momentum and keeps interest high.
Example: She organized the campaign and led the team, but her work didn’t end there. She also designed the entire branding.
Best Use: Storytelling, pitches, presentations.
Worst Use: Formal analysis, academic writing.
Tone: Inspiring and forward-moving.
40. Not restrained to
Meaning: Not limited or held back by
Definition: Suggests openness or broader application
Explanation: Great when you want to show that something has range or flexibility
Example: His creativity is not limited to visual art but extends into leadership.
Best Use: Describing versatility, talents, and innovation
Worst Use: Personal letters—it may sound cold or distant
Tone: Expansive, analytical, and confident
41. Not restricted to
Meaning: Not confined or locked into one definition or scope
Definition: Emphasizes flexibility or multi-functionality
Explanation: Often used to expand understanding of a topic or role
Example: This role is not restricted to data entry; it also includes client communication.
Best Use: Job postings, scope documents, descriptions
Worst Use: Poetry or emotional writing
Tone: Practical and informative.
42. Over and above
Meaning: In addition to and even more than that
Definition: Introduces something extra that stands out beyond the standard
Explanation: Often used to express bonus efforts or exceeding expectations
Example: She met every deadline, over and above what was required.
Best Use: Appreciation emails, performance feedback, formal praise
Worst Use: Repetitive writing or where subtlety is needed
Tone: Complimentary, formal, and respectful
43. Both… and
Meaning: Indicates two things are equally valid or relevant
Definition: A pair of connectors showing two included elements
Explanation: Simple, direct, and widely understood
Example: She’s both creative and highly analytical.
Best Use: Resumes, bios, presentations, praise
Worst Use: Long or repetitive structures—it may sound robotic
Tone: Inclusive, affirming, straightforward
44. Not solely
Meaning: Not only is one thing true, there’s more
Definition: Refutes the idea that something is limited or exclusive
Explanation: Great for showing layered strengths or correcting assumptions
Example: He’s not solely focused on sales—he’s committed to client relationships too.
Best Use: Role descriptions, performance reviews, bios
Worst Use: When only one element matters or when it is overused
Tone: Professional, expansive, clarifying
45. What’s equally true
Meaning: Introduces a second point that holds the same importance
Definition: Used to show balance and maintain the same level of emphasis
Explanation: Helps reinforce a point while adding depth
Example: Efficiency is key. What’s equally valid is maintaining quality.
Best Use: Leadership messages, values-based writing, analysis
Worst Use: Rapid updates or when brevity is needed
Tone: Reflective, balanced, and thoughtful
46. As another instance
Meaning: Introducing an additional example
Definition: Adds another occurrence to support a larger point
Explanation: Helps strengthen arguments with real-world support
Example: The campaign reached 50,000 users. In another instance, engagement rose 20% in just one week.
Best Use: Case studies, reports, storytelling
Worst Use: Conversational or emotional writing
Tone: Illustrative, evidence-based, and structured.
47. Adding to that
Meaning: A smooth way to continue or expand a point
Definition: Introduces extra information that builds on what came before
Explanation: Keeps the tone conversational while staying informative
Example: Our team exceeded the sales goal. Adding to that, customer satisfaction also improved.
Best Use: Presentations, updates, team recaps
Worst Use: Overloading points without transitions—it can feel cluttered
Tone: Friendly, fluid, and encouraging.
48. This too
Meaning: Adds another idea or element
Definition: Suggests inclusion of something previously unmentioned but relevant
Explanation: This short, simple way to show a continuation
Example: She managed logistics. This, too, helped the project stay on track.
Best Use: Internal reports, messaging, updates
Worst Use: Ambiguous contexts—it can sound vague without an explicit reference
Tone: Brief, calm, supportive.
49. This also highlights
Meaning: Shows that something draws attention to a bigger idea
Definition: Points to a broader meaning or result beyond the immediate detail
Explanation: Ideal for connecting the dots in complex writing
Example: The system failure delayed the service. This also highlights the need for better failover planning.
Best Use: Reports, insights, problem-solving discussions
Worst Use: Personal writing—it may sound too clinical
Tone: Analytical, serious, and constructive.
50. To reinforce
Meaning: To strengthen or support a point or idea
Definition: Emphasizes a repeated or supportive message
Explanation: Great for reasserting values, strategies, or goals
Example: We’ve simplified the interface to reinforce accessibility.
Best Use: UX writing, brand statements, leadership communication
Worst Use: Overuse can feel too forceful or repetitive
Tone: Strong, intentional, and authoritative.
FAQs
1. What does “Not Only” imply in a sentence?
Answer: The phrase “not only” signals the first part of a dual idea, typically succeeded by “but also” to highlight that both aspects are essential and valid.Example: “She was responsible for managing the project and directing the marketing campaign.”
2. Must “but also” follow “not only?
Answer: While it isn’t a strict requirement, including “but also” provides a more balanced and grammatically consistent format.Without “but also”: “He writes poems and performs them.”With “but also”: “He writes poems and performs them.”Recommendation: Use “but also” in formal writing for enhanced clarity.
3. How would you describe the tone of “not only… but also”?
Answer: This construction often conveys an emphatic, persuasive, or enthusiastic tone. It indicates that both ideas are significant and reinforce each other.
4. Can “not only” start a sentence?
Answer: Yes, it can begin a sentence, especially in formal or dramatic contexts, often followed by inversion (reversing the subject and verb).Example: “Not only did she create the logo, but she also developed the website.”
5. Is “not only” too formal for informal writing?
Answer: It may come across as a bit formal or structured, yet it’s still regularly used in casual writing when applied naturally.Suggestion: To achieve a more conversational style, you might say: “She did this—and even that!”
6. Is using “not only” with a single subject right?
Answer: Yes, provided the comparison or emphasis remains clear.Example: “Not only did the CEO support the idea, but so did the entire board.”
7. Can “not only” highlight negative concepts?
Answer: Certainly—it can emphasize both positive and negative aspects.Example: “Not only was the product costly, but it also lacked necessary features.”
8. Is “not only” appropriate in professional settings?
Answer: Definitely—but it should be used for clarity and emphasis, rather than mere style.Example: “Not only does this tool enhance efficiency, but it also minimizes errors.”
Finally
The phrase “not only” is a powerful linguistic tool that enhances communication with complexity, contrast, and focus. It helps to emphasize multiple strengths, present complex ideas, and amplify the effect of what is being spoken. Using “not only” frequently or without careful context, though, makes your message seem formulaic or expected, even if it is generally accepted in formal and casual writing.
You can keep your writing dynamic, human-centred, and naturally expressive by welcoming more interesting and context-aware solutions—such as “in addition to that,” “what’s more,” “along with,” or “on top of that”—Selecting the appropriate wording helps your communication resonate clearly and professionally, whether you are writing an email, creating a presentation, or developing a narrative.
