Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to connect elements of equal grammatical weight. 'Not only' and 'but also' are a common pair used to emphasize that two things are true. They require parallel structure, meaning the words or phrases following each conjunction should be of the same grammatical form (e.g., both nouns, both verbs, both adjectives). Correctly combining sentences using these conjunctions demonstrates a strong grasp of English grammar and sentence construction. This is a fundamental skill assessed in the English Compulsory paper of the UPSC Mains examination.
He not only lost his purse but also lost his bicycle.
Explanation of the Correct Usage
The sentence effectively combines the original two sentences using 'not only' and 'but also'. The structure is maintained as both 'his purse' and 'his bicycle' are noun phrases, ensuring grammatical parallelism. The verb 'lost' is used consistently after both conjunctions.
Why other constructions are incorrect:
- "He lost not only his purse but his bicycle" - Incorrect word order.
- "He lost his purse and also his bicycle" - While grammatically correct, it doesn't utilize the emphasis provided by 'not only...but also'.
- "He lost his purse, but also his bicycle" - The comma creates a run-on sentence and weakens the connection.
Importance of Parallel Structure
Parallel structure is crucial when using correlative conjunctions. It ensures clarity and readability. Consider the following incorrect example:
“She is not only intelligent but also a good singer.”
Here, ‘intelligent’ is an adjective, while ‘a good singer’ is a noun phrase. This lack of parallelism makes the sentence awkward. The correct version would be:
“She is not only intelligent but also a talented singer.”
Application in UPSC Context
While this question is a basic grammar exercise, the principle of clarity and precision is vital for the UPSC Mains examination. In essay writing and answer writing, maintaining parallel structure in complex sentences enhances the quality and readability of your responses. It demonstrates a command of the language and a logical flow of thought.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the correct combination of the given sentences using 'not only' and 'but also' is "He not only lost his purse but also lost his bicycle." This demonstrates a fundamental understanding of correlative conjunctions and the importance of parallel structure in English grammar. Mastering such basic grammatical principles is essential for effective communication and achieving a high score in the English Compulsory paper, and more broadly, for clear and concise writing in all aspects of the UPSC examination.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.