Other Ways to Say "Not only"

Updated · Other Ways to Say It editorial team

Other Ways to Say "Not only"

Quick answer: Looking for other ways to say not only? This guide provides clear alternatives for every context. You will find formal phrases for reports, professional options for emails, and casual expressions for friends to upgrade your daily speech.

Formal Alternatives

Not just
The candidate is not just qualified but also highly experienced in this field.
Beyond
Beyond the initial cost, the project requires significant time for implementation.
In addition to
In addition to the main report, we submitted several supporting documents.
Furthermore
Furthermore, the committee agreed to review the policy next month.
Moreover
Moreover, the data suggests a clear trend in consumer behavior.
As well as
The new law affects small businesses as well as large corporations.
Coupled with
Coupled with strong leadership, the team achieved remarkable results quickly.
Along with
Along with the primary objectives, we must consider secondary goals.
Plus
Plus, the additional funding allows for more extensive research opportunities.
Alongside
Alongside the financial benefits, there are significant social advantages.

Professional and Email Alternatives

Beyond that
Beyond that, we need to finalize the budget by Friday.
On top of that
On top of that, please review the attached contract draft.
Additionally
Additionally, I have scheduled a follow-up meeting for next week.
Also
Also, could you please confirm the shipping address?
What is more
What is more, the client requested changes to the design.
Together with
Together with the marketing team, we developed this strategy.
In conjunction with
In conjunction with the sales department, we launched the campaign.
As an extra
As an extra measure, we added a security checkpoint.
By way of
By way of clarification, I have attached the updated file.
Besides
Besides the meeting, there are no other commitments today.

Casual Alternatives

On top of
On top of the rain, we forgot our umbrellas at home.
And another thing
And another thing, you really should try that new pizza place.
Not to mention
Not to mention the amazing view from the top of the hill.
As well
I am going to the store, and you can come as well.
Too
She is coming too, so we will have a full house.
In addition
He played the piano; in addition, he composed his own songs.
To boot
She won the contest; free entry to the festival came to boot.
Let alone
I don't have time for a nap, let alone a full brunch.
To say nothing of
The traffic was bad to say nothing of the parking situation.

Warm and Friendly Alternatives

And what is more
And what is more, it is a lovely day for a picnic.
And another great thing
And another great thing is how friendly the neighbors are.
Plus, we also
The garden looks beautiful, and plus, we also planted herbs for cooking.
We also enjoy
We love the sunny weather, and we also enjoy the gentle breeze in the afternoon.
Furthermore, it brings
The book is educational, and furthermore, it brings joy to readers of all ages.
In addition to this
The soup is warm and comforting, and in addition to this, it is packed with vitamins.
Along with this
The team showed great skill, and along with this, they displayed amazing sportsmanship.
We also find
The movie was entertaining, and we also find the music from the soundtrack to be lovely.

When the Original Phrase Is Still Fine

Sometimes the original phrase is the best choice. Using not only creates a strong emphasis that other words might lack. It pairs perfectly with but also to show a clear connection. In formal writing, this structure adds weight and clarity. Do not replace it just for variety if it works well.

How to Choose the Right Alternative

Consider your audience when selecting a phrase. For formal reports, use terms like furthermore or moreover. In emails, additional or on top of that work well. With friends, keep it simple with plus or also. Match the tone to your relationship and the context. This ensures your message is received as intended.

Alternatives for Text Messages

And
Bring your ID and don't forget the tickets.
Oh wait
Oh wait I just remembered I have to pick up my sister.
Btw
Btw the party moved to the backyard.
Plus one
Can I bring a plus one to the event?
Also btw
Also btw please text me when you arrive.

Phrases to Avoid

Not only... but also
This construction is grammatically rigid; use 'and' or 'plus' for smoother flow in casual writing.
In addition to the fact that
This phrase is overly wordy; replace it with 'since' or 'because' for clarity.
By no means
This phrase negates the preceding statement rather than adding to it; use 'not just' if you mean to add information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between not only and not just?

Not only is often used with but also for emphasis. Not just is slightly more casual and flexible. Both show addition, but not only feels more formal in structure.

Can I use furthermore in casual conversation?

Furthermore is quite formal and stiff for chat. It works best in essays or reports. In casual talk, use plus or also instead. This keeps the conversation natural and relaxed.

Is on top of that too informal?

It depends on the setting. In casual chats, it is perfect. In strict formal writing, avoid it. Use in addition to or moreover instead. Choose based on your audience and context.

How do I avoid repeating not only?

Use synonyms like furthermore, moreover, or additionally. Vary your sentence structure too. Sometimes starting with also works well. This keeps your writing fresh and engaging for readers.

Sources and Further Reading

Back to top

More in Casual Talk