Usage of 非但
The word 非但 is a conjunction used to express 'not only... but also...' in Mandarin Chinese. It emphasizes that the first statement is true and is followed by an additional, often stronger or more surprising, statement.
Position and Tone
非但 usually appears at the beginning of the clause it modifies and is often paired with words like 还 (hái), 而且 (érqiě), or 反而 (fǎn'ér) to introduce the second part of the sentence. It is formal and common in written and spoken Chinese, especially in descriptive or argumentative contexts.
Common Collocations
- 非但...还...: not only... but also...
- 非但...而且...: not only... moreover...
- 非但...反而...: not only... but on the contrary...
Nuance and Contrast
Using 非但 highlights that the second part is an addition or contrast to the first. It differs from 只是 (zhǐshì, 'only') which limits the scope. 非但 expands it. Avoid confusing 非但 with 但是 (dànshì, 'but'), which introduces contrast without the 'not only' implication.
Summary
非但 is a useful conjunction to express multiple positive or negative qualities or actions, emphasizing that the situation is more complex or significant than initially stated. It helps learners make their sentences richer and more nuanced.