不仅

• Pinyin: bù jǐn
• Hanzi breakdown: 不 = negation; 仅 = 亻(person) + 又 (again, simplified), meaning only or merely

Meaning

Not only; not merely. A conjunction used to introduce the first of two or more related points.

The standard and slightly more formal equivalent of 不光 and 不但. Always requires a second clause with 而且, 还, or 也. Very common in both spoken and written Chinese for building complex sentences.

Examples

1. 这种水果不仅好吃，而且对身体有好处。 This fruit is not only delicious, but also good for your health.
2. 她不仅成绩优秀，还积极参加各种活动。 She not only has excellent grades, but also actively participates in various activities.
3. 学中文不仅能交到新朋友，也能了解中国文化。 Learning Chinese can not only help you make new friends, but also help you understand Chinese culture.

Usage Guide

Context: writing, speech, everyday

Tone: additive

Do Say

• 他不仅是我的同事，也是我的好朋友。(He is not only my colleague, but also my good friend.)
• 不仅价格合理，质量也很好。(Not only is the price reasonable, the quality is also good.)

Don't Say

• 不仅好吃 as a complete sentence (不仅 must be followed by a second clause with 而且/还/也 — you cannot end with just the first point)

Origin & History

Compound of 不 (not) and 仅 (only, merely), literally 'not merely.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal