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A2 adverb #100 most common 13 min read

also

Top 100

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips also in 30 Seconds

Explanation also in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'also' is one of the first words you learn to help you say more than one thing. It is like a plus sign (+) for your sentences. When you know a few words, 'also' helps you put them together. For example, you can say 'I like apples' and then add 'I also like bananas.' It makes your English sound better because you are not just saying short, separate sentences. You are connecting your ideas. At this level, we usually put 'also' after the word 'I' or 'he' or 'she' and before the action word (verb). For example: 'She also speaks English.' We can also use it after 'is' or 'are'. For example: 'He is also a student.' Using 'also' is a great way to show that you can give more information. It is a very friendly and helpful word. You will hear it a lot when people talk about their hobbies, their families, or the things they have. It is a very common word, so it is important to practice it. Try to use it today when you talk about things you like or things you do. It will make your English sound much more natural and interesting to the person listening to you.

At the A2 level, you are starting to use 'also' to build longer and more detailed sentences. You are moving beyond simple lists and beginning to use 'also' to connect different types of information. For example, you might describe a place: 'The hotel is big. It also has a swimming pool.' Here, 'also' is helping you provide a more complete picture. You are also learning the correct 'mid-position' for the word. This means you know to put it after 'be' verbs (is, are, was, were) and before other main verbs. You might also start to see 'also' at the beginning of a sentence in informal talk, like 'Also, I need to buy some milk.' This shows you are thinking of new things to say as you speak. At this level, it's important to start noticing the difference between 'also' and 'too'. While they mean the same thing, 'too' usually goes at the end of the sentence ('I like it too'), while 'also' stays in the middle. Practicing this will help your English sound more correct. 'Also' is a key word for the A2 level because it allows you to expand your descriptions and participate more fully in conversations by adding your own thoughts and experiences to what others are saying.

By the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'also' in a variety of sentence structures, including those with auxiliary verbs. You understand that 'also' goes after the first auxiliary verb, such as in 'I have also seen that movie' or 'We will also be attending the conference.' This level of grammatical precision is expected at B1. You are also beginning to use 'also' in more formal contexts, such as in short essays or business emails, to provide additional points or evidence. You might use it to transition between related ideas within a paragraph. Furthermore, you are likely becoming aware of the 'not only... but also' structure, which is a more sophisticated way to emphasize two related points. For example, 'The city is not only beautiful but also very safe.' Using this construction correctly shows a good command of English grammar. At B1, you are also learning to avoid overusing 'also' by occasionally using synonyms like 'as well' or 'too' in spoken English, or 'additionally' in writing. This variety makes your language more engaging. You understand that 'also' is a versatile tool for organizing your thoughts and making your communication more cohesive and professional.

At the B2 level, your use of 'also' should be fluid and natural across all registers. You are capable of using it to create complex, nuanced arguments in both speaking and writing. You understand the stylistic implications of placing 'also' at the beginning of a sentence versus in the mid-position. In formal writing, you might use 'Also,' at the start of a paragraph to introduce a secondary but important point, followed by a comma. You are also proficient in the 'not only... but also' construction, using it to add rhetorical weight to your statements. For example, 'Not only did the policy fail to achieve its primary goals, but it also created several unforeseen problems.' This shows you can handle inversion and parallel structure. At B2, you are also sensitive to the subtle differences between 'also' and its more formal counterparts like 'furthermore' and 'moreover'. You choose the word that best fits the tone of your communication. You also know to avoid 'also' in negative sentences, consistently using 'either' instead. Your ability to use 'also' effectively contributes to the overall coherence and cohesion of your discourse, allowing you to link ideas logically and persuasively in a wide range of academic, professional, and social situations.

At the C1 level, 'also' is used with a high degree of precision and stylistic awareness. You use it not just to add information, but to manage the flow of information and emphasize specific points. You might use 'also' in mid-position to subtly integrate a secondary fact, or at the beginning of a sentence for a more pronounced additive effect. You are fully aware of the 'not only... but also' structure and can use it with complex clauses, ensuring perfect parallelism. For example, 'Not only is the theoretical framework robust, but it also provides a practical roadmap for future research.' At this level, you are also adept at using 'also' in combination with other adverbs to create nuanced meanings, such as 'potentially also' or 'perhaps also'. You understand that in very formal or literary contexts, 'also' can occasionally appear at the end of a sentence for specific rhythmic or emphatic effects, though you use this sparingly. Your vocabulary is broad enough that you only use 'also' when it is the most appropriate choice, frequently opting for more specialized connectors like 'likewise', 'correspondingly', or 'by the same token' when the context demands it. Your use of 'also' is a testament to your ability to construct sophisticated, well-organized, and highly cohesive texts and speeches.

At the C2 level, 'also' is a tool for masterful communication. You use it with complete spontaneity and a deep understanding of its pragmatic functions. You can manipulate its position in a sentence to achieve subtle shifts in focus or emphasis, often for rhetorical effect. For instance, you might use 'also' to introduce a counter-intuitive point or a surprising addition that challenges the listener's expectations. Your use of the 'not only... but also' construction is flawless, even in highly complex or abstract discussions. You are also aware of the historical development of the word and its relationship to other Germanic languages, which informs your understanding of its deep-seated role in English syntax. In your writing, 'also' is part of a sophisticated repertoire of cohesive devices that you use to create elegant and persuasive prose. You are capable of using 'also' in a way that is so integrated into the fabric of your language that it becomes almost invisible, yet it performs a vital function in maintaining the logical progression of your ideas. At this level, your mastery of 'also' is not just about grammatical correctness, but about using the word to achieve a high level of eloquence and precision in your expression, whether in a formal academic paper, a high-stakes business negotiation, or a complex literary analysis.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

also in 30 Seconds

An adverb used to add information or ideas.
Usually placed in the middle of a sentence (mid-position).
Means the same as 'too' or 'as well' but has a different position.
Commonly used in the 'not only... but also' construction.

The word also is a versatile adverb used to introduce an additional fact, quality, or action. It functions as a connective tissue in English, allowing speakers and writers to layer information without starting entirely new thematic threads. In everyday communication, it serves as a signal that the speaker is not finished providing relevant details. For instance, if you are describing a friend, you might say they are kind and also very intelligent. This simple addition enriches the description and provides a more holistic view of the subject.

Functional Role: As an additive adverb, 'also' connects ideas of equal weight. It is less formal than 'furthermore' but more integrated into the sentence structure than 'too' or 'as well'.
Psychological Impact: Using 'also' helps maintain the flow of thought, preventing the listener from feeling that the conversation is fragmented or disjointed.

She is a talented musician; she also paints beautiful landscapes in her free time.

In professional settings, 'also' is indispensable for listing requirements, benefits, or steps in a process. It allows for a logical progression of points. When a manager says, 'We need to finish the report, and we also need to call the client,' the word 'also' prioritizes the second task as being of similar importance to the first. It creates a mental checklist for the listener.

The hotel offers free breakfast. Also, there is a gym on the second floor.

Placement Nuance: While 'also' usually goes in the middle of a sentence (between the subject and verb), its placement at the start of a sentence is common in informal speech to introduce a new topic or an afterthought.

I have invited Sarah. I have also invited her brother.

Culturally, the use of 'also' reflects a desire for thoroughness. In many English-speaking cultures, being direct but comprehensive is valued. 'Also' allows a speaker to be thorough without being overly wordy. It is a tool for efficiency. Whether you are ordering food ('I'll have the burger, and also a side of fries') or explaining a complex scientific theory, 'also' provides the necessary bridge between related concepts.

Not only did he win the race, but he also broke the world record.

Comparative Frequency: 'Also' is used significantly more often in writing than 'too' or 'as well', which are more common in spoken English. However, 'also' remains a staple in both domains due to its clarity.

The document is available in PDF format. It is also available as a hard copy.

Ultimately, 'also' is about connection. It connects nouns, verbs, and entire clauses. It is the linguistic equivalent of a plus sign (+). Without it, our sentences would feel like a series of isolated islands rather than a cohesive continent of thought. By mastering 'also', learners can significantly improve their ability to describe complex situations and provide detailed information in a natural, fluid manner.

The placement of also is one of the most critical aspects of using it correctly in English. Unlike 'too' or 'as well', which almost always appear at the end of a sentence, 'also' usually occupies a 'mid-position'. This means it typically sits between the subject and the main verb, or after the first auxiliary verb or the verb 'to be'. Understanding these patterns is key to sounding like a native speaker.

Mid-Position Rule: Place 'also' before the main verb. Example: 'I also like tea.' (Subject + also + Verb).
After 'To Be': If the main verb is 'am', 'is', 'are', 'was', or 'were', place 'also' after it. Example: 'He is also a teacher.'

They also want to come to the party tonight.

When a sentence contains an auxiliary verb (like 'can', 'will', 'have', 'must'), 'also' should be placed after the first auxiliary verb. This is a common area of confusion for learners. For example, in the sentence 'I have also been to Paris,' 'also' sits between 'have' and 'been'. This structure maintains the grammatical integrity of the verb phrase while adding the necessary adverbial detail.

We can also provide technical support if needed.

Negative Sentences: In negative sentences, we usually use 'either' instead of 'also'. For example, 'I don't like coffee, and I don't like tea either' (not 'I also don't like tea').

The room was also very cold, which made it hard to sleep.

In questions, 'also' usually follows the subject. For example, 'Are you also going to the meeting?' This placement helps clarify that the question is about whether the subject shares the same condition or action as someone else previously mentioned. It is a subtle but important distinction in conversational English.

Did you also see the news this morning?

Correlative Usage: When using 'not only... but also', ensure the grammatical structures following both parts are parallel. Example: 'He not only sings (verb) but also dances (verb).'

The project is not only expensive but also time-consuming.

By paying attention to these structural rules, you can use 'also' to create complex, informative sentences that flow logically. It is a small word that carries a lot of weight in organizing information and showing the relationship between different ideas. Practice these positions until they become second nature, and your English will sound much more polished and professional.

You will encounter also in almost every conceivable context of English communication. From the casual banter of a coffee shop to the rigorous debates of a university lecture hall, 'also' is the workhorse of addition. In spoken English, it is often used to keep a list going. Imagine a friend telling you about their vacation: 'We went to the beach, and we also visited the old town.' Here, 'also' acts as a signal that the story is continuing.

In the Workplace: In emails and meetings, 'also' is used to add agenda items or clarify responsibilities. 'I've attached the file; I've also CC'd the manager.'
In Academic Writing: Scholars use 'also' to introduce secondary evidence or alternative theories. It is a key transition word for building a persuasive argument.

The study also suggests that sleep is vital for memory consolidation.

In news broadcasts and journalism, 'also' is used to provide additional context to a story. A news anchor might say, 'The storm caused widespread power outages. It also led to the closure of several major highways.' This allows the reporter to pack a lot of information into a short segment while keeping the narrative clear and organized for the viewer.

I also wanted to mention the importance of community support.

In Advertising: Marketers use 'also' to stack benefits. 'It's fast, it's reliable, and it's also the most affordable option on the market!'

Our new app also includes a built-in calorie tracker.

In literature, authors use 'also' to reveal character traits or plot details in a layered way. A novelist might write, 'He was a man of few words; he was also a man of deep secrets.' This use of 'also' creates a sense of depth and mystery, suggesting that there is more to the character than meets the eye. It is a powerful tool for character development.

The old house was beautiful, but it was also quite terrifying at night.

In Social Media: On platforms like Twitter or Instagram, 'also' is used in captions to add hashtags or tag friends. 'Had a great day! Also tagging @friend for the photo credit.'

Check out my new blog post! Also, link in bio!

Whether you are reading a textbook, watching a movie, or chatting with a neighbor, 'also' is there, quietly doing the work of connecting ideas. Its ubiquity makes it one of the most important words for any English learner to master. By noticing how it is used in different contexts, you can begin to use it more naturally and effectively in your own speech and writing.

While also is a relatively simple word, its placement and usage can be tricky for learners. One of the most common mistakes is placing 'also' at the end of a sentence. While this is common with 'too' and 'as well', it sounds unnatural with 'also' in most contexts. For example, 'I like apples also' is technically correct but much less common than 'I also like apples' or 'I like apples too.'

The 'Too' Confusion: Learners often treat 'also', 'too', and 'as well' as interchangeable in terms of position. Remember: 'also' usually goes in the middle, while 'too' and 'as well' go at the end.
Negative Sentence Error: Using 'also' in a negative sentence is a frequent error. Instead of 'I also don't like it,' native speakers almost always say 'I don't like it either.'

Incorrect: I also don't have a car.
Correct: I don't have a car either.

Another common mistake involves the placement of 'also' with auxiliary verbs. Learners often place 'also' before the auxiliary verb, as in 'I also can swim.' The correct placement is after the first auxiliary verb: 'I can also swim.' This rule applies to all auxiliary verbs, including 'have', 'will', 'must', and 'should'. Getting this right is a hallmark of advanced English proficiency.

Incorrect: He also is happy.
Correct: He is also happy.

Overuse in Writing: In formal essays, overusing 'also' can make the writing feel repetitive. Try using synonyms like 'furthermore', 'moreover', or 'additionally' to vary your sentence structure.

Incorrect: I also have been to London.
Correct: I have also been to London.

In the 'not only... but also' construction, a common mistake is omitting the 'but' or the 'also'. Both are necessary for the sentence to be grammatically complete and to convey the intended emphasis. For example, 'Not only is he smart, he is kind' is missing the 'but also' which provides the necessary rhetorical punch. Always ensure the pair is complete.

Incorrect: Not only he is rich, but also famous.
Correct: Not only is he rich, but he is also famous.

Punctuation with 'Also': When 'also' starts a sentence, it should be followed by a comma. Example: 'Also, we need to consider the cost.' Omitting this comma is a common punctuation error.

By being aware of these common pitfalls, you can avoid the most frequent mistakes made with 'also'. Remember to check your placement, use 'either' in negative sentences, and ensure your 'not only... but also' constructions are complete and parallel. With practice, these rules will become intuitive, and your English will be more accurate and natural.

While also is a fantastic all-purpose word for addition, English offers a rich variety of alternatives that can help you express nuance and vary your register. Depending on whether you are writing a formal report, a casual text, or an academic paper, choosing the right synonym can make your communication more effective and engaging. Understanding the subtle differences between these words is key to advanced fluency.

Too and As Well: These are the most common alternatives in spoken English. They almost always appear at the end of a sentence. 'Too' is slightly more informal than 'as well'. Example: 'I'm coming too!' or 'I'm coming as well.'
Furthermore and Moreover: These are formal transition words used primarily in writing. They are used to add a point that supports or expands upon the previous one. They usually start a sentence and are followed by a comma.

The plan is cost-effective. Moreover, it is environmentally friendly.

'Additionally' and 'In addition' are also formal alternatives that are very common in business and academic contexts. They function similarly to 'furthermore' but are perhaps slightly more neutral. They are excellent for listing benefits or requirements in a structured way. For example, 'In addition to the salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package.'

I don't want to go; besides, I have too much work to do.

Likewise and Similarly: These words are used when the additional point is very similar in nature to the first one. 'Likewise' is often used in social situations (e.g., 'Nice to meet you.' 'Likewise.').

The first experiment was a success. Similarly, the second trial yielded positive results.

Choosing between these alternatives depends on the tone you want to set. 'Also' is the safe, middle-ground choice. 'Too' and 'as well' are for casual conversation. 'Furthermore', 'moreover', and 'additionally' are for formal writing. By expanding your vocabulary to include these alternatives, you can make your English sound more sophisticated and precise.

Comparison Summary

Also: Mid-position, neutral, versatile.
Too/As well: End-position, informal/neutral.
Furthermore/Moreover: Start-position, formal, persuasive.
Additionally: Start-position, formal, neutral.

The car is fast. It is also very safe. (Neutral)
The car is fast and safe too. (Informal)

In conclusion, while 'also' is a fundamental word, its alternatives provide the variety needed for truly expressive English. Pay attention to the context and the position of the word in the sentence to choose the best option for your needs. Mastering these synonyms will greatly enhance your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"The study also indicates a need for further research."

Neutral

"I also think we should go to the park."

Informal

"Also, can you grab some milk?"

Child friendly

"The bunny is soft, and it is also very fast!"

Slang

"But also, no, that's just not true."

Fun Fact

The word 'also' is a cognate of the German word 'also', but in German, it means 'so' or 'therefore' rather than 'in addition'. This is a common 'false friend' for learners of both languages.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈɔːl.səʊ/

US /ˈɑːl.soʊ/

The stress is on the first syllable: AL-so.

Rhymes With

Torso More so Whoso Solo (near rhyme) Photo (near rhyme) Go (near rhyme) Show (near rhyme) Slow (near rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'l' too softly.
Using a short 'o' sound at the end.
Confusing the 'al' sound with 'el'.
Stress on the second syllable.
Omitting the 'l' entirely.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize and understand in text.

Writing 2/5

Placement can be slightly tricky for beginners.

Speaking 2/5

Natural placement in mid-position requires practice.

Listening 1/5

Clear pronunciation and common usage make it easy to hear.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

and too is have like

Learn Next

furthermore moreover additionally either neither

Advanced

consequently subsequently correspondingly notwithstanding

Grammar to Know

Mid-position placement

I also like music.

Placement after 'to be'

She is also a student.

Placement after auxiliary verbs

They have also arrived.

Not only... but also parallelism

He is not only talented but also hardworking.

Sentence-initial comma

Also, we need to talk.

Examples by Level

I like cats. I also like dogs.

J'aime les chats. J'aime aussi les chiens.

Mid-position: after the subject 'I' and before the verb 'like'.

She is a teacher. She is also a mother.

Elle est professeur. Elle est aussi mère.

After the verb 'to be' (is).

We have a car. We also have a bike.

Nous avons une voiture. Nous avons aussi un vélo.

Mid-position: before the main verb 'have'.

He speaks Spanish. He also speaks English.

Il parle espagnol. Il parle aussi anglais.

Mid-position: before the verb 'speaks'.

It is hot today. It is also sunny.

Il fait chaud aujourd'hui. Il fait aussi beau.

After the verb 'to be' (is).

They play football. They also play tennis.

Ils jouent au football. Ils jouent aussi au tennis.

Mid-position: before the verb 'play'.

I am hungry. I am also thirsty.

J'ai faim. J'ai aussi soif.

After the verb 'to be' (am).

The book is good. It is also cheap.

Le livre est bon. Il est aussi bon marché.

After the verb 'to be' (is).

The apartment is small, but it is also very clean.

L'appartement est petit, mais il est aussi très propre.

Used after 'is' to add a positive quality.

I can play the piano, and I can also play the guitar.

Je peux jouer du piano, et je peux aussi jouer de la guitare.

Placed after the auxiliary verb 'can'.

Also, don't forget to bring your umbrella.

Aussi, n'oubliez pas d'apporter votre parapluie.

Used at the beginning of a sentence for an afterthought.

He is a great cook; he also writes food blogs.

C'est un excellent cuisinier ; il écrit aussi des blogs culinaires.

Connecting two related professional activities.

We visited the museum and also went to the park.

Nous avons visité le musée et sommes aussi allés au parc.

Placed before the second main verb 'went'.

Are you also coming to the cinema with us?

Est-ce que tu viens aussi au cinéma avec nous ?

Placed after the subject 'you' in a question.

The movie was long, but it was also very exciting.

Le film était long, mais il était aussi très excitant.

After the past tense 'was'.

She has a cat and she also has two birds.

Elle a un chat et elle a aussi deux oiseaux.

Mid-position before the verb 'has'.

I have also been thinking about changing my job.

J'ai aussi pensé à changer de travail.

Placed after the first auxiliary verb 'have'.

Not only is she smart, but she is also very kind.

Non seulement elle est intelligente, mais elle est aussi très gentille.

Part of the 'not only... but also' construction.

The report is finished, and I have also sent it to the boss.

Le rapport est terminé, et je l'ai aussi envoyé au patron.

Placed after the auxiliary 'have'.

You should also consider the environmental impact of the project.

Vous devriez également tenir compte de l'impact environnemental du projet.

Placed after the modal verb 'should'.

The city is famous for its history, but it is also a modern hub.

La ville est célèbre pour son histoire, mais c'est aussi un centre moderne.

Connecting two contrasting but true facts.

They will also be providing free transport for the guests.

Ils fourniront également un transport gratuit pour les invités.

Placed after the first auxiliary 'will'.

The software is easy to use and is also very reliable.

Le logiciel est facile à utiliser et est également très fiable.

After the verb 'is' in the second clause.

I also wanted to ask if you are free on Saturday.

Je voulais aussi demander si tu es libre samedi.

Mid-position before the main verb 'wanted'.

The study also revealed a significant correlation between diet and health.

L'étude a également révélé une corrélation significative entre l'alimentation et la santé.

Used in an academic context to introduce a secondary finding.

Not only did he arrive late, but he also forgot his notes.

Non seulement il est arrivé en retard, mais il a aussi oublié ses notes.

Correlative conjunction with subject-verb inversion.

We must also take into account the potential risks involved.

Nous devons également prendre en compte les risques potentiels impliqués.

Placed after the modal verb 'must'.

The company is expanding rapidly; it is also investing in new technology.

L'entreprise se développe rapidement ; elle investit également dans de nouvelles technologies.

Connecting two related business strategies.

Also, it is worth noting that the deadline has been extended.

De plus, il convient de noter que la date limite a été prolongée.

Sentence-initial position for a formal addition.

The film was not only critically acclaimed but also a box-office success.

Le film a non seulement été salué par la critique, mais a également été un succès au box-office.

Parallel structure in 'not only... but also'.

She is a talented writer who is also an accomplished musician.

C'est une écrivaine talentueuse qui est aussi une musicienne accomplie.

Used within a relative clause.

The project will not only benefit the local community but also the environment.

Le projet profitera non seulement à la communauté locale mais aussi à l'environnement.

Connecting two beneficiaries of an action.

The proposed legislation could also have far-reaching social consequences.

La législation proposée pourrait également avoir des conséquences sociales considérables.

Placed after the modal 'could' to suggest a secondary effect.

Not only is the argument logically sound, but it is also supported by empirical evidence.

Non seulement l'argument est logiquement solide, mais il est également étayé par des preuves empiriques.

Sophisticated use of 'not only... but also' with inversion.

The author also explores the theme of isolation in her later works.

L'auteur explore également le thème de l'isolement dans ses œuvres ultérieures.

Academic register for literary analysis.

It is also possible that the initial results were influenced by external factors.

Il est également possible que les résultats initiaux aient été influencés par des facteurs externes.

Used to introduce a secondary hypothesis.

The company’s success is due to its innovation, but also to its strong leadership.

Le succès de l'entreprise est dû à son innovation, mais aussi à son leadership fort.

Using 'but also' to add a crucial contributing factor.

Also, one must consider the ethical implications of such a decision.

De plus, il faut considérer les implications éthiques d'une telle décision.

Formal sentence-initial use for a serious point.

The new policy is not only more efficient but also significantly more cost-effective.

La nouvelle politique est non seulement plus efficace, mais aussi nettement plus rentable.

Using 'also' with an intensifying adverb ('significantly').

He was a brilliant scientist, but he was also a deeply flawed human being.

C'était un scientifique brillant, mais c'était aussi un être humain profondément imparfait.

Using 'also' to add complexity to a character description.

The phenomenon is not only geographically widespread but also temporally persistent.

Le phénomène est non seulement géographiquement étendu, mais aussi temporellement persistant.

Highly formal and precise academic language.

One might also argue that the current economic climate is conducive to such ventures.

On pourrait également soutenir que le climat économique actuel est propice à de telles entreprises.

Using 'also' to introduce a nuanced counter-argument.

The text is not only a masterpiece of prose but also a profound philosophical treatise.

Le texte est non seulement un chef-d'œuvre de prose mais aussi un traité philosophique profond.

Parallelism with complex noun phrases.

Also, the inherent complexity of the system must be acknowledged from the outset.

De plus, la complexité inhérente du système doit être reconnue dès le départ.

Formal sentence-initial use for a foundational point.

The artist’s work is not only visually stunning but also intellectually provocative.

L'œuvre de l'artiste est non seulement visuellement époustouflante, mais aussi intellectuellement provocatrice.

Using 'also' to link sensory and intellectual qualities.

It should also be noted that the findings are subject to further verification.

Il convient également de noter que les conclusions sont sujettes à une vérification ultérieure.

Passive construction with 'also' for academic caution.

The strategy is not only ambitious but also remarkably well-executed.

La stratégie est non seulement ambitieuse mais aussi remarquablement bien exécutée.

Using 'also' with a compound adverbial phrase.

He was not only a pioneer in his field but also a mentor to generations of scholars.

Il était non seulement un pionnier dans son domaine, mais aussi un mentor pour des générations de chercheurs.

Using 'also' to highlight a legacy.

Common Collocations

but also

also known as

also included

also possible

also available

also important

also found

also called

also used

also mentioned

Common Phrases

Often Confused With

also vs too

Means the same but usually goes at the end of the sentence.

also vs as well

Means the same but is more common at the end of the sentence.

also vs either

Used instead of 'also' in negative sentences.

Idioms & Expressions

"Also-ran"

— A person who is not successful in a competition or business.

He was just an also-ran in the mayoral election.

Informal

"Not only... but also"

— Used to emphasize that two things are true, especially when the second is surprising.

Not only did she win, but she also set a record.

Neutral

"And also with you"

— A traditional religious response in some Christian liturgies.

The priest said 'Peace be with you,' and the people replied 'And also with you.'

Formal/Religious

"Also-known-as (AKA)"

— Used to provide an alternative name or nickname.

This is Shawn, also known as 'The Brain'.

Neutral

"But also, no"

— A modern slang way to express disagreement after considering a point.

I see your point, but also, no, that's wrong.

Slang

"Also, too"

— A redundant but common informal way to emphasize addition.

I want that one also, too!

Informal

"Also-starring"

— Used in movie credits to list secondary actors.

The film features Tom Hanks, also starring Julia Roberts.

Neutral

"Also-present"

— Used in formal minutes to list people who attended a meeting.

Also present at the meeting were the board members.

Formal

"Also-likely"

— Used to suggest a secondary probability.

It is also likely that the price will rise.

Neutral

"Also-relevant"

— Used to introduce a point that is related to the current topic.

This information is also relevant to our discussion.

Neutral

Easily Confused

also vs too

Same meaning.

'Also' is mid-position; 'too' is end-position.

I also like it vs. I like it too.

also vs either

Used for addition.

'Also' is for positive sentences; 'either' is for negative sentences.

I like it also vs. I don't like it either.

also vs as well

Same meaning.

'As well' is more common in spoken British English and goes at the end.

He is coming as well.

also vs furthermore

Both add information.

'Furthermore' is much more formal and usually starts a sentence.

Furthermore, the results are clear.

also vs besides

Both add information.

'Besides' often adds a more important or decisive point.

Besides, I don't have time.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + also + Verb

I also like pizza.

Subject + is/are + also + Noun

He is also a doctor.

Subject + can + also + Verb

We can also help you.

Subject + have + also + Past Participle

I have also seen that.

Not only + Adjective + but also + Adjective

It is not only cheap but also good.

Also, + Sentence

Also, we must consider the time.

Subject + could + also + Verb

This could also mean a delay.

Not only + Auxiliary + Subject + Verb + but also...

Not only did he win, but he also broke the record.

Word Family

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

I like it also. → I also like it. / I like it too.
'Also' is rarely used at the end of a sentence.
I also don't like coffee. → I don't like coffee either.
Use 'either' in negative sentences.
I also can swim. → I can also swim.
'Also' should follow the auxiliary verb 'can'.
Not only he is smart but also kind. → Not only is he smart, but he is also kind.
Requires subject-verb inversion after 'Not only'.
He is also a doctor and also a writer. → He is a doctor and also a writer.
Avoid repeating 'also' too many times in one sentence.

Tips

The Mid-Position Rule

Always try to place 'also' after the verb 'to be' or before the main verb. This is the most natural spot.

Avoid End-Position

When speaking, try to use 'too' if you want to add something at the end of your sentence. It sounds more native.

Formal Transitions

In essays, use 'Furthermore' or 'Additionally' instead of 'Also' at the start of a paragraph for a more professional tone.

Parallel Structure

When using 'not only... but also', make sure both parts of the sentence match. If you use a verb after the first part, use a verb after the second.

Listen for Auxiliaries

Native speakers often tuck 'also' right after 'have', 'will', or 'can'. Listen closely to catch these additions.

Synonym Variety

Don't use 'also' in every sentence. Mix it up with 'as well' or 'in addition' to make your writing more interesting.

Negative Sentences

Remember: 'also' is for positive, 'either' is for negative. 'I don't like it either' is the way to go.

Initial Comma

If you start a sentence with 'Also', always put a comma after it. It helps the reader pause and understand the addition.

The 'L' Sound

Make sure to pronounce the 'l' in 'also'. Some learners skip it, but it's important for clarity.

Emphasis

If you want to emphasize the addition, you can put 'also' at the very beginning of the sentence.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'AL-SO' as 'ALL-SO'. You are saying that ALL of this is SO (true), and this other thing is SO (true) too.

Visual Association

Imagine a plus sign (+) sitting in the middle of a sentence, connecting two blocks of information.

Word Web

Addition Connection Too As well Furthermore Moreover Additionally Plus

Challenge

Try to write five sentences about your day using 'also' in the correct mid-position for each one.

Word Origin

Derived from the Old English words 'all' and 'so'. It originally meant 'all in that manner' or 'entirely so'.

Original meaning: Exactly so; in the same way.

Germanic

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities; it is a neutral functional word.

Used ubiquitously in all social and professional strata.

The 'Not only... but also' comedy show by Peter Cook and Dudley Moore. Commonly used in legal documents to ensure all parties and conditions are included. Frequent in scientific papers to list multiple findings.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Ordering Food

I'll have the pasta, and also a salad.
Can I also get a water?
Do you also have dessert?
I'd also like some bread.

Job Interviews

I also have experience in marketing.
I am also proficient in Excel.
I also worked at a startup.
I can also start next week.

Giving Directions

You can also take the bus.
There is also a map over there.
It is also near the station.
You could also walk.

Describing People

He is kind and also very funny.
She is a doctor and also a writer.
They are also very tall.
He also speaks three languages.

Planning a Trip

We should also visit the castle.
Is there also a train?
We can also stay at a hostel.
I also want to see the museum.

Conversation Starters

"I love traveling. I also love trying new foods. What about you?"

"I'm learning English, and I'm also learning Spanish. Do you speak other languages?"

"The weather is great today. It's also very warm. Do you like this weather?"

"I've seen that movie. I also read the book. Have you?"

"I'm a big fan of football. I also like basketball. What sports do you play?"

Journal Prompts

Write about three things you did today and use 'also' to connect them.

Describe your best friend. What are their qualities? Use 'also' at least three times.

What are your goals for this year? What are you also hoping to learn?

Think about a place you want to visit. Why do you want to go there? What else is also there?

Write about a hobby you have. What do you also enjoy doing in your free time?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, you can start a sentence with 'also', especially in informal speech or to add an afterthought. In formal writing, it is usually followed by a comma. For example: 'Also, we need to consider the budget.'

It usually goes in the 'mid-position'. This means after the verb 'to be' (He is also...) or before the main verb (I also like...). If there is an auxiliary verb, it goes after the first one (I have also been...).

It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, its placement can change the tone. Mid-position is neutral, while sentence-initial is often more informal or emphatic.

No, it is better to use 'either' in negative sentences. For example, instead of 'I also don't like it,' you should say 'I don't like it either.'

The main difference is position. 'Also' is usually in the middle of the sentence, while 'too' is at the end. 'Too' is also slightly more common in spoken English.

Yes, 'also' is an adverb of addition.

This is a pair. You use it to emphasize two things. For example: 'She is not only smart but also funny.' Ensure the words after 'not only' and 'but also' are the same type (e.g., both adjectives).

If it starts a sentence, yes, it usually needs a comma. If it is in the middle of a sentence, it does not.

It is rare in British English but occasionally happens in American English. However, 'too' or 'as well' are much more natural at the end.

Common synonyms include 'too', 'as well', 'additionally', 'furthermore', and 'moreover'.