How to Correct the Sentence Structure: "did Kate spill wine on the carpet but also broke six glasses"
What is the correct sentence structure for this sentence: "did Kate spill wine on the carpet but also broke six glasses"?
Which option is correct?
- Kate did not only spill wine on the carpet but also broke six glasses
- Kate not only spilled wine on the carpet but also broke six glasses
- Kate spilled wine on the carpet and also broke six glasses
Answer:
The correct sentence structure is: "Kate not only spilled wine on the carpet but also broke six glasses."
The student's sentence is intended to use the 'not only...but also' structure. The correct form should be: 'Kate not only spilled wine on the carpet, but she also broke six glasses.'
Explanation:
In this sentence, the use of inversion, specifically "not only... but also," places emphasis on the fact that Kate didn't just spill wine on the carpet; she also broke six glasses. The inversion of "not only" and "but also" is a grammatical construction that highlights the contrast or addition of two actions or qualities, making the sentence more dynamic and emphasizing the dual nature of Kate's actions.
The typical word order would be "Kate spilled wine on the carpet and also broke six glasses," but the inversion structure adds emphasis to the actions and creates a more impactful sentence. It draws attention to the unexpected or significant nature of both events occurring together, making it clear that Kate's actions had a double impact on the situation.