non seulement
The English phrase "not only" is translated into French as non seulement.
A phrase used to introduce the first of two or more related points that are being emphasized.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of non (not), seulement (only).
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase non seulement is most commonly paired with mais aussi to complete the not only… but also construction. The phrase non seulement can also be paired with mais encore to express the same meaning as mais aussi. The word aussi can be placed after the second subject or object rather than immediately following mais.
Did you know?
- In spoken French, the elegant non seulement often gives way to the much more colloquial pas que, which literally means 'not that'.
- The word seulement contains a hidden Latin root meaning 'alone' or 'solitary', which is why it is closely related to the English word 'sole'.
- In highly formal written French, you can omit the mais aussi entirely if the context is clear, leaving non seulement to stand as a powerful rhetorical device.
Examples in context
- Elle est non seulement belle, mais aussi aimable.She is not only pretty, but also kind.This sentence demonstrates the use of non seulement to describe someone's qualities.Tatoeba #7466187 by Micsmithel, translation #310692 by CM
- Elle est non seulement belle mais aussi intelligente.She is not only beautiful but also intelligent.This sentence shows how to use non seulement with adjectives.Tatoeba #334755 by sysko, translation #310738 by CM
- Je lis non seulement ses romans mais ses poèmes aussi.I read not only his novels but also his poems.This sentence illustrates using non seulement with nouns like novels and poems.Tatoeba #127718 by Aiji, translation #260672 by shekitten
- Non seulement il est intelligent, mais il est aussi charmant.Not only is he intelligent, but he is also charming.
- Non seulement il a réussi à l'examen, mais encore il a obtenu une bourse.Not only did he pass the exam, but he also received a scholarship.
- 52 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a new cafe in town.
- GabrielCe café est non seulement moderne, mais aussi très calme.This cafe is not only modern, but also very quiet.
- ManonC'est vrai, j'adore l'ambiance ici.It's true, I love the atmosphere here.
- GabrielManon, tu aimeras sûrement leurs pâtisseries.Manon, you will surely like their pastries.
- ManonOh, j'ai hâte de goûter ça !Oh, I can't wait to taste that!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries non, seulement, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
