Not only… but also

Correlative conjunctions work in pairs

Reader’s question: Do you need but or but also in a sentence that starts with Not only (e.g. Not only does she excel at swimming, she dances superbly.)?

Answer: Yes, you need but also, because not only … but also are correlative conjunctions that work in pairs.

Correlative conjunctions link balanced words, phrases and clauses.

 Not only does she excel at swimming, but she also dances superbly.

Other correlative conjunctions are neither/nor and either/or.

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