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不仅
bù jǐn
not only
她不仅会说中文，还会说法语。
She not only speaks Chinese but also French.
formal
Used to indicate that something is true in addition to something else mentioned; not only
他不仅聪明，而且勤奋。
He is not only smart but also diligent.
这个餐厅不仅菜好吃，环境也很好。
This restaurant has not only delicious food but also a nice environment.
Used to connect two clauses to show that the second clause adds to the first. Often paired with '而且' (érqiě, 'but also'), '还' (hái, 'also'), or '也' (yě, 'also') in the second clause.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Pair with contrasting phrases
Always pair '不仅' with a contrasting phrase like '而且' (but also), '还' (also), or '也' (also) to complete the meaning. For example: '不仅A，而且B' (not only A, but also B).
Gold Rule
Structure matters
The structure '不仅 + clause 1, [也/还/而且] + clause 2' is the most common. The second clause must add new information that contrasts or complements the first.
Avoid standalone use
Do not use '不仅' alone without a contrasting second clause. It should always be followed by a phrase that adds to the initial statement.
Word Origin
Composed of '不' (bù, 'not') and '仅' (jǐn, 'only'). The phrase '不仅' emerged in modern Chinese to emphasize that something is true in addition to what was previously stated.
Usage Notes
1. '不仅' is typically used at the beginning of a clause to introduce the first part of a comparison or contrast. The second clause often includes '而且', '还', or '也' to indicate the additional aspect. 2. In spoken Chinese, '不光' is a more colloquial alternative to '不仅'. 3. Avoid using '不仅' alone without a contrasting second clause; it should always be followed by a phrase that adds to the initial statement.
Word Breakdown
不
not
adverb仅
only
adverb汉英词典