"will serve not only" vs "will serve not only as"

Question

"will serve not only" vs "will serve not only as"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Will serve not only' is used when listing multiple functions or purposes of something, while 'will serve not only as' is used when introducing a single function or purpose. They are not directly comparable as they serve different grammatical purposes.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used when you want to emphasize that something has multiple functions or purposes. It is often followed by a list of functions or purposes.

Examples:

This tool will serve not only to cut but also to shape the material.
The new software will serve not only to improve efficiency but also to enhance security.
The book will serve not only as a source of information but also as a guide for beginners.

Alternatives:

will not only serve
will serve not just
will serve not only for
will serve not only to
will serve not only in

This phrase is used when you want to introduce a single function or purpose of something. It is often followed by a specific function or purpose.

Examples:

The new building will serve not only as a school but also as a community center.
The project will serve not only as a model for future initiatives but also as a learning opportunity.
The event will serve not only as a celebration but also as a fundraiser.

Alternatives:

will not only serve as
will serve not just as
will serve not only for
will serve not only to
will serve not only in

Answer 1

will serve not only

This phrase is correct when listing multiple functions or purposes of something.

Answer 2

will serve not only as

This phrase is correct when introducing a single function or purpose of something.

"will serve not only" vs "will serve not only as"

will serve not only

will serve not only as

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