词典词条 · 问答

not only... but also... is/are

问

Not only the money but also the jewels ____ locked up in the safe.

当 not only... but also 连接主语时,谓语动词是使用单数还是使用复数呢?

答

如同 or, either...or 和 neither...nor 一样,用 not only...but also 连接主语时,谓语动词的数应服从接近原则:最靠近谓语动词的部分亦即 but also 后面的部分(名词或代词)决定谓语动词的数。因此上道考题的空白处应填 are。再如:

Not only the teacher but also the students were invited. 不但那位教师被邀请,而且学生们也被邀请了。
Not only the students but also the teacher was invited. 不仅学生们被邀请,而且那位教师也被邀请了。
Not only you but also I am to blame. 不仅仅你,而且我也应受到责备。
Not only he but also you are to blame. 不但他,你也要受到责备。上面的原则也适用于 not... but:

Not you, but I am to blame. 不是你，而是我该受责备。

练习

Not only the child but also the mother ____ when the bus drove across the mountains.
1. A
  is frightened
2. B
  are frightened
3. C
  was frightened
4. D
  were frightened
Not only I but also Jane and Mary ____ tired of having one examination after another.
1. A
  is
2. B
  are
3. C
  am
4. D
  be(全国高考)