Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[fanstia]

Hello,
I have checked the meaning of �as well as� in dictionary, and it looks like �and� and �not only ..but also...�.
But I think it�s not totally true. Please tell me the difference between them.

(My English is not good. If there have any mistake, please tell me to revise it.)

[CP]

Often you can use them interchangeably. Example:

I bought apples and oranges. This is just a plain statement of fact.

I bought apples as well as oranges. I might say this for emphasis or for variation, or to answer a question, such as, "Did you get any oranges?"

I bought not only apples but also oranges. Similarly, I might say this for emphasis or variation, or to answer a question, such as, "Did you get any apples?"

I could also say I bought both apples and oranges.

It is good to keep these variations in mind when speaking and writing, and try to notice when native speakers use them to see if you find subtle differences.

Does this help?
_________________
You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb

[fanstia]

Thank you, CP.

And yes, it really helps me.

The examples are great for me.