Meaning
Used to connect two elements and emphasize that not only the first but also the second applies or is important. Typical in listings or argumentative statements.
Primary Function
Adding and emphasizing multiple elements
Communicative Purpose
To highlight that both mentioned elements are relevant or true, not just the first one.
Pattern
Nicht nur; sondern auch
Core Structure
Nicht nur; sondern auch
Função primária
Adding and emphasizing multiple elements
Propósito comunicativo
To highlight that both mentioned elements are relevant or true, not just the first one.
Situações de gatilho
Listing multiple positive qualities, comparing advantages, explaining compound reasons
Contextos
academic writing, presentations, everyday conversations, debates
Padrão
Nicht nur; sondern auch
Estrutura central
Nicht nur; sondern auch
Slots de substituição
The first part introduces the first element, the second part introduces the second element (nouns, verbs, clauses).
Colocados típicos
- gute Noten
- hart arbeiten
- Erfolg haben
- wichtig sein
- interessant sein
Substituições comuns
- nicht nur ... sondern ebenfalls (slightly more formal)
- nicht nur ... sondern sogar (adds surprise)
- nicht nur ... sondern darüber hinaus (adds extra emphasis)
Erros comuns
Missing the comma before 'sondern auch', incorrect word order after the conjunction, using 'und' instead of 'sondern auch'.
Similar / contraste
sowohl... als auch, entweder... oder, nicht nur... sondern sogar
Interferências
Learners may omit the required comma before 'sondern', especially if their L1 does not use a comma in similar constructions; English speakers might incorrectly translate word order as 'not only ... but also' without adjusting German syntax.
Família do chunk
- nicht nur... sondern auch
- sowohl... als auch
- entweder... oder
Nuance
Adds emphasis to the second element, often used to strengthen an argument or list. More formal than 'und auch'.
Efeito pragmático
Makes the statement more persuasive or balanced by explicitly including both elements.
Dica de memória
Pairing both elements
Nota
In Deutsch ist ein Komma vor „sondern“ erforderlich, da es einen Kontrast einleitet. Das zweite Element kann ein Substantiv, ein Verb oder ein ganzer Nebensatz sein.
Upgrade path
sowohl... als auch
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