Paired Words
Paired Words : Grammar and Spelling TipsWhen you use pairs like both . . . and, not only . . . but also or neither . . . nor, make sure that each word in the pair is in the right place. The two words should introduce symmetrical structures. Example: • We met both at home and at work. --- This sentence is a right one. • We met both at home and work. --- This sentence is a wrong one. Strictly speaking, you should say either one of the following two sentences. • He looked neither to right nor to left. Or • He looked to neither right nor left. But the following sentence is a wrong one. • He looked neither to right nor left. Similarly, a sentence like the following one is a wrong expression. • She is not only a talented singer but writes her own songs. --- This sentence is a wrong one. You could rewrite it as either one of the following two sentences. • She is not only a talented singer but also a composer. Or • She not only sings but also writes her own songs. Tips Index
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