The “Not only… but also” structure, especially when combined with inversion, is a powerful tool for expressing complex ideas in English. This advanced grammatical construction frequently appears in IELTS exams, making it essential for test-takers to master. Let’s dive into the intricacies of this structure and explore how to use it effectively in your IELTS preparation.
Understanding the “Not Only… But Also + Inversion” Structure
The “Not only… but also” structure is used to emphasize two related ideas, with the second idea often being more significant or surprising. When combined with inversion, it creates a sophisticated sentence that can significantly boost your IELTS score.
Here are some examples of how this structure might appear in different sections of the IELTS exam:
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Writing Task 2: Not only does regular exercise improve physical health, but it also enhances mental well-being.
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Speaking Part 3: Not only are technological advancements changing the way we work, but they are also revolutionizing our social interactions.
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Reading Passage: Not only did the ancient Egyptians build magnificent pyramids, but they also developed complex systems of mathematics and astronomy.
In each of these examples, the structure emphasizes two related points, with the second point often being more impactful or surprising.
Not only but also structure
Grammar Formula and Usage
The basic formula for this structure is:
Not only + auxiliary verb + subject + main verb, but (also) + subject + verb + rest of sentence
When using inversion, the formula becomes:
Not only + auxiliary verb + subject + main verb, but + auxiliary verb + subject + also + main verb + rest of sentence
Application in IELTS Writing
In IELTS Writing, this structure can help you create complex sentences that demonstrate a high level of grammatical control. Here’s an example for Writing Task 2:
Topic: The impact of technology on education
Not only has technology revolutionized the way students access information, but it has also transformed teaching methods in classrooms worldwide. This dual impact has led to a more interactive and personalized learning experience, benefiting both educators and learners.
In this example, the structure is used to link two related ideas about technology’s impact on education. The inversion in the first clause (has technology revolutionized) adds sophistication to the sentence structure.
Usage in IELTS Speaking
For the Speaking test, this structure can help you provide detailed and nuanced responses. Here’s an example for Part 3:
Question: How has technology changed the way people communicate?
“Well, that’s an interesting question. Not only has technology made communication faster and more convenient, but it has also expanded our ability to connect with people globally. For instance, social media platforms allow us to maintain relationships with friends and family across vast distances, while video conferencing tools have revolutionized business communication.”
This response uses the structure to present a comprehensive answer, demonstrating a high level of language proficiency.
Sample Passages and Analysis
Let’s look at how this structure can be incorporated into longer passages for different parts of the IELTS exam.
Writing Task 2 Sample
Topic: The importance of preserving traditional cultures in a globalized world
In our rapidly globalizing world, the preservation of traditional cultures has become increasingly crucial. Not only do these cultures represent our diverse heritage, but they also provide valuable insights into sustainable living practices. For example, many indigenous cultures have developed agricultural methods that are both productive and environmentally friendly. Furthermore, not only can traditional cultures offer unique perspectives on social organization, but they can also inspire innovative solutions to modern problems. By studying and preserving these cultures, we gain a wealth of knowledge that can guide us in addressing contemporary challenges.
In this passage, the “Not only… but also” structure is used twice to emphasize the multifaceted importance of traditional cultures. The first instance uses inversion, while the second maintains the standard word order, demonstrating versatility in sentence construction.
Speaking Part 2 Sample
Describe a time when you had to adapt to a new situation
I’d like to talk about my experience of studying abroad in Japan. It was a challenging but rewarding experience that required significant adaptation. Not only did I have to navigate a completely different educational system, but I also had to adjust to a new cultural environment. The Japanese approach to learning was much more structured and formal than what I was used to, which initially felt quite overwhelming. However, as time went on, I began to appreciate the discipline and attention to detail that this system encouraged.
Moreover, not only was I exposed to new teaching methods, but I also had the opportunity to immerse myself in Japanese culture. This immersion helped me develop a deeper understanding of cultural nuances and improved my language skills dramatically. Looking back, I realize that this experience not only enhanced my academic knowledge but also broadened my worldview and increased my adaptability.
This response uses the “Not only… but also” structure with inversion to highlight the dual challenges and benefits of studying abroad. The structure helps to create a well-organized and sophisticated answer.
Strategies for Achieving Higher Band Scores
To achieve higher band scores in IELTS, it’s crucial to use advanced grammatical structures like “Not only… but also” accurately and appropriately. Here’s how this structure can contribute to different band scores:
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Band 6: Basic use of the structure without inversion
Example: Not only technology has changed education, but it has also affected social interactions. -
Band 7: Correct use of the structure with some attempts at inversion
Example: Not only has technology changed education, but it has also affected social interactions. -
Band 8-9: Sophisticated use of the structure with correct inversion and varied sentence patterns
Example: Not only has technology revolutionized educational methodologies, but it has also fundamentally altered the fabric of social interactions, leading to a more interconnected yet potentially isolated society.
To achieve the highest scores, aim to use this structure in combination with other advanced grammatical forms and a wide range of vocabulary. Also, ensure that your usage of the structure is relevant to the topic and contributes to the overall coherence of your response.
IELTS band score comparison
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When using the “Not only… but also” structure, test-takers often make several common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:
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Incorrect word order in inversion:
Incorrect: Not only technology has changed our lives, but also it has created new challenges.
Correct: Not only has technology changed our lives, but it has also created new challenges. -
Forgetting to use “also” in the second clause:
Incorrect: Not only is he intelligent, but he is hardworking.
Correct: Not only is he intelligent, but he is also hardworking. -
Using “but” without “also”:
Incorrect: Not only does she speak French, but Spanish.
Correct: Not only does she speak French, but also Spanish. -
Inconsistent verb tenses:
Incorrect: Not only did she finish her homework, but she is also helping her sister.
Correct: Not only did she finish her homework, but she also helped her sister. -
Overusing the structure:
While it’s a powerful tool, using this structure too frequently can make your writing or speaking seem formulaic. Use it judiciously and mix it with other complex structures.
To avoid these mistakes, practice using the structure in various contexts and have your usage checked by a teacher or native speaker. Remember, mastering this structure takes time and practice, but it can significantly enhance your IELTS performance.
Conclusion
The “Not only… but also” structure, especially when combined with inversion, is a valuable tool for IELTS test-takers aiming for high scores. It allows you to express complex ideas concisely and emphasize related points effectively. By mastering this structure, you can enhance your performance across all sections of the IELTS exam.
As you continue your IELTS preparation, practice incorporating this structure into your writing and speaking. Remember to use it appropriately and in conjunction with a wide range of vocabulary and other complex grammatical structures. With consistent practice, you’ll find that this structure becomes a natural part of your English expression, helping you to achieve your desired IELTS score.
For further practice, try using this structure in responses to various IELTS topics, such as environmental issues, technological advancements, or cultural changes. The more you use it in context, the more comfortable and proficient you’ll become in applying it during the actual exam.
To expand your grammatical repertoire, you might also want to explore other advanced structures such as inverted conditionals or emphatic structures. These, along with “Not only… but also,” can help you create unique and impactful sentences that will impress IELTS examiners and boost your scores across all sections of the test.
