30 Other Ways to Say "Not Only" (With Examples)

Finding the perfect words can turn a simple statement into something thoughtful and memorable. Sometimes, a small shift in phrasing can make a message resonate more warmly, showing someone that you’ve put in extra thought and care.

Saying “not only“ is often used to express multiple benefits or qualities, but with a few alternative expressions, we can make our words sound more genuine, relatable, and impactful. Here are 30 heartfelt and meaningful alternatives to express “not only“ in a way that truly connects.

Table of Contents

What Does “Not Only” Mean?

“Not only” is a phrase used to introduce the first of two or more ideas, qualities, or benefits. It sets up a sense of expectation, as the phrase often suggests there’s more depth or richness to the subject than initially meets the eye. For example, “Not only is he a great friend, but he’s also an amazing mentor.” This expression is powerful when you want to emphasize that someone or something has multiple admirable qualities.

When to Use Not Only

Using “not only” is ideal when you want to add depth to a description or emphasize multiple positive aspects. It’s useful in both formal and informal contexts and can apply to people, things, and situations. However, overusing it can make statements feel predictable, which is why alternative phrases help keep your message fresh and engaging.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say Not Only?

Yes, “not only” is both professional and polite. In fact, it’s commonly used in business communication, emails, and presentations. That said, finding different ways to express the same idea can create a refreshing impact, especially in repeated or conversational use, making your message feel more personalized.

Not Only Synonyms:

Alongside
As Well As
On Top of That
In Addition to That
Besides
Furthermore
Moreover
What’s More
Even Better
Plus
Equally Important
Not to Mention
Let’s Not Forget
And Also
Along with
As a Bonus
Not Just That
Beyond That
Over and Above
Not Merely
Together With
In Tandem With
Beyond Just That
Accompanied By
On a Related Note
Just as Importantly
Additionally
Similarly
Beyond That Alone
What’s Even Better

1. Alongside

Definition: Alongside highlights an additional point or quality.

Explanation: Use “alongside” when emphasizing a quality that complements or exists with another.

Example: “Alongside being a fantastic chef, she’s an incredible host.”

Tone: Warm and inclusive.

2. As Well As

Definition: As well as means in addition to something mentioned.

Explanation: This phrase conveys additional qualities, showing that something is more than it initially seems.

Example: “As well as being a gifted musician, he’s a talented writer.”

Tone: Thoughtful and versatile.

3. On Top of That

Definition: Emphasizes an additional quality, especially something surprising or positive.

Explanation: Use “on top of that” to showcase extra benefits or attributes.

Example: “She’s brilliant with numbers, and on top of that, she’s wonderful with people.”

Tone: Casual and upbeat.

4. In Addition to That

Definition: Means adding one quality to another.

Explanation: This phrase is useful when you want to highlight an added skill or quality.

Example: “In addition to being efficient, he’s incredibly detail-oriented.”

Tone: Formal and polite.

5. Besides

Definition: Used to introduce an extra point that strengthens the main idea.

Explanation: “Besides” adds warmth by suggesting something unexpected.

Example: “Besides being highly organized, she’s also very creative.”

Tone: Casual and friendly.

6. Furthermore

Definition: Adds an extra point to emphasize depth or importance.

Explanation: This phrase often appears in formal or professional settings.

Example: “Furthermore, he demonstrates incredible leadership skills.”

Tone: Professional and polished.

7. Moreover

Definition: A formal way to add an additional quality.

Explanation: Use “moreover” to layer qualities, especially in writing.

Example: “Moreover, her insight into the field is unmatched.”

Tone: Formal and impactful.

8. What’s More

Definition: Introduces an additional point, often with enthusiasm.

Explanation: This phrase emphasizes an exciting or impressive quality.

Example: “He’s a fantastic speaker. What’s more, he’s a thoughtful listener.”

Tone: Warm and enthusiastic.

9. Even Better

Definition: Adds an even greater quality to something already positive.

Explanation: This phrase heightens appreciation of the subject.

Example: “She’s a wonderful leader, and even better, she’s incredibly supportive.”

Tone: Friendly and admiring.

10. Plus

Definition: A casual way to add another positive quality.

Explanation: “Plus” suggests something extra in an informal way.

Example: “He’s highly skilled, plus he’s always willing to help others.”

Tone: Friendly and approachable.

11. Equally Important

Definition: Emphasizes two qualities as equally significant.

Explanation: Use “equally important” to avoid hierarchy between qualities.

Example: “Equally important, she brings a great deal of compassion to her work.”

Tone: Thoughtful and balanced.

12. Not to Mention

Definition: Adds emphasis to a lesser-mentioned quality.

Explanation: This phrase highlights something valuable yet understated.

Example: “He’s an amazing mentor, not to mention a great friend.”

Tone: Warm and understated.

13. Let’s Not Forget

Definition: Reminds the listener of an additional point.

Explanation: Use this phrase to stress an easily overlooked quality.

Example: “She’s talented in so many ways; let’s not forget her sense of humor.”

Tone: Gentle and appreciative.

14. And Also

Definition: Adds another point or quality without hierarchy.

Explanation: This phrase is simple and direct for adding information.

Example: “He’s extremely knowledgeable and also very patient.”

Tone: Neutral and straightforward.

15. Along with

Definition: Adds a complementary quality or benefit.

Explanation: “Along with” works well to emphasize additional attributes in a cohesive way.

Example: “She’s an excellent communicator, along with being highly empathetic.”

Tone: Warm and inclusive.

16. As a Bonus

Definition: Emphasizes an additional, often surprising quality.

Explanation: Use “as a bonus” to highlight an extra quality as a pleasant surprise.

Example: “He’s incredibly skilled, and as a bonus, he’s easy to work with.”

Tone: Friendly and positive.

17. Not Just That

Definition: Suggests that there’s more to be said beyond the initial point.

Explanation: This phrase draws attention to further qualities or benefits.

Example: “Not just that, she brings a fresh perspective to every project.”

Tone: Casual and conversational.

18. Beyond That

Definition: Indicates something that goes further or deeper.

Explanation: “Beyond that” works well when emphasizing depth or variety.

Example: “He’s a great leader, and beyond that, he genuinely cares about his team.”

Tone: Thoughtful and respectful.

19. Over and Above

Definition: Suggests an extra effort or quality that exceeds expectations.

Explanation: Use this phrase to emphasize exceptional qualities.

Example: “Over and above his technical skills, he’s also very patient.”

Tone: Formal and complimentary.

20. Not Merely

Definition: Emphasizes that there’s more depth beyond the initial impression.

Explanation: “Not merely” is great for expressing a more profound quality.

Example: “She’s not merely a brilliant strategist; she’s a compassionate leader too.”

Tone: Reflective and thoughtful.

21. Together With

Definition: Indicates a harmonious addition to an existing quality.

Explanation: This phrase suggests a natural combination of qualities.

Example: “He’s a skilled musician, together with a passion for teaching others.”

Tone: Warm and cohesive.

22. In Tandem With

Definition: Implies two qualities or actions working well together.

Explanation: “In tandem with” is ideal for professional or coordinated contexts.

Example: “In tandem with her creativity, she brings strong organizational skills.”

Tone: Formal and polished.

23. Beyond Just That

Definition: Implies there is more than the primary quality.

Explanation: “Beyond just that” is helpful for adding depth to an initial description.

Example: “He’s a fantastic writer; beyond just that, he’s an inspiring speaker.”

Tone: Warm and expansive.

24. Accompanied By

Definition: Highlights an additional, accompanying quality.

Explanation: Use this phrase when focusing on complementary traits.

Example: “Her sharp intellect is accompanied by a kind heart.”

Tone: Gentle and thoughtful.

25. On a Related Note

Definition: Introduces an additional point that’s connected but unique.

Explanation: “On a related note” works well when expanding on different qualities.

Example: “He’s a strong leader; on a related note, he’s also a supportive mentor.”

Tone: Friendly and informative.

26. Just as Importantly

Definition: Puts two qualities on equal footing.

Explanation: This phrase emphasizes that both qualities are essential.

Example: “Just as importantly, she’s compassionate and understanding.”

Tone: Balanced and thoughtful.

27. Additionally

Definition: Adds a supplementary quality or point.

Explanation: “Additionally” works well in both formal and casual contexts.

Example: “Additionally, he’s known for his remarkable patience.”

Tone: Professional and adaptable.

28. Similarly

Definition: Highlights another quality that aligns with the first.

Explanation: Use “similarly” when pointing out an additional, compatible quality.

Example: “She’s incredibly organized; similarly, she’s detail-oriented.”

Tone: Neutral and balanced.

29. Beyond That Alone

Definition: Stresses that the qualities extend beyond the first mention.

Explanation: This phrase is effective for emphasizing a range of strengths.

Example: “Beyond that alone, he brings an infectious enthusiasm to the team.”

Tone: Enthusiastic and engaging.

30. What’s Even Better

Definition: Adds an impressive or unexpected quality.

Explanation: “What’s even better” makes a statement more impactful, often with a touch of surprise.

Example: “He’s an amazing collaborator, and what’s even better, he’s always open to new ideas.”

Tone: Warm and celebratory.

Conclusion

Finding different ways to say “not only” helps make your words feel more personalized and genuine. These alternatives allow you to express appreciation, highlight diverse qualities, and communicate in a way that resonates with others.

Whether in professional settings or personal conversations, adding this variety to your language helps convey thoughtfulness, showing that you value the person or thing you’re describing.