The word “also” is a ubiquitous tool in the English language, serving to add information and connect ideas. However, relying solely on “also” can make your writing and speech sound repetitive and less sophisticated.
This article aims to broaden your vocabulary by exploring a variety of alternatives to “also,” each with its own nuance and appropriate context. Mastering these alternatives will not only enhance your communication skills but also allow you to express yourself more precisely and engagingly.
This comprehensive guide is designed for English language learners of all levels, from beginners looking to expand their basic vocabulary to advanced speakers aiming for greater fluency and stylistic finesse.
Whether you are writing an academic paper, crafting a professional email, or simply engaging in everyday conversation, a diverse range of expressions to convey addition can significantly improve your clarity and impact. By understanding the subtle differences between words like “furthermore,” “moreover,” “in addition,” and “besides,” you can choose the most effective word for each situation, making your communication more compelling and effective.
This article provides detailed explanations, numerous examples, and practical exercises to help you confidently incorporate these alternatives into your active vocabulary.
Table of Contents
- Definition and Basic Usage
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of Alternatives to “Also”
- Examples
- Usage Rules and Considerations
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Definition and Basic Usage
The word “also” is an adverb that functions as a conjunction, primarily used to add information to a previous statement. It indicates that something is true or valid in addition to what has already been mentioned.
While simple and straightforward, over-reliance on “also” can lead to monotonous and less impactful communication. Learning alternatives allows for greater nuance, formality, and emphasis in your writing and speech.
Classification: Adverb (also functions as a conjunctive adverb)
Function: To add information, indicate similarity, or emphasize a point.
Contexts: Suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though often more appropriate for less formal situations compared to some of its alternatives.
Structural Breakdown
Understanding the structure of sentences using “also” and its alternatives is crucial for correct usage. “Also” typically appears in mid-position, usually after the auxiliary verb (e.g., “He is also learning French”) or before the main verb (e.g., “She also enjoys hiking”).
Alternative expressions may have different structural requirements. For instance, “in addition” and “furthermore” often begin a new sentence or clause, while “besides” can function as a preposition or an adverb, affecting its placement.
Here’s a breakdown of common structural patterns:
- “Also”: Subject + Auxiliary Verb + Also + Main Verb (e.g., They are also going to the party.) OR Subject + Also + Main Verb (e.g., They also went to the store.)
- “In addition”: In addition, + [new clause/sentence] (e.g., In addition, they brought snacks.)
- “Furthermore”: Furthermore, + [new clause/sentence] (e.g., Furthermore, they offered to help with the cleanup.)
- “Moreover”: Moreover, + [new clause/sentence] (e.g., Moreover, they insisted on paying for everything.)
- “Besides”: Besides, + [new clause/sentence] (e.g., Besides, we had plenty of time.) OR Besides + [noun/gerund], + [main clause] (e.g., Besides the food, the music was excellent.)
- “As well”: Subject + Verb + Object + As well (e.g., They brought drinks as well.)
- “Too”: Subject + Verb + Object + Too (e.g., They brought ice too.)
- “Likewise”: [Statement]. Likewise, + [similar statement]. (e.g., John enjoys reading. Likewise, Mary is an avid reader.)
Types and Categories of Alternatives to “Also”
Alternatives to “also” can be categorized based on their level of formality, the degree of emphasis they convey, and whether they indicate a sequence or addition of ideas. Understanding these categories allows you to choose the most appropriate word for your specific context and purpose.
Formal Alternatives
These alternatives are suitable for academic writing, professional communication, and other formal contexts. They often carry a more sophisticated and precise tone than “also.”
- Furthermore: Adds information in a way that builds upon the previous point.
- Moreover: Similar to “furthermore,” but often used to introduce a more important or convincing point.
- In addition: A straightforward and formal way to add information.
- Additionally: Similar to “in addition,” but can also emphasize the added information.
- Besides: Can introduce an additional reason or argument.
Informal Alternatives
These alternatives are appropriate for casual conversations, informal writing, and everyday communication. They tend to be more conversational and less stiff than formal alternatives.
- Too: A simple and common way to add information at the end of a sentence.
- As well: Similar to “too,” but slightly more formal.
- On top of that: Adds information in a more emphatic and colloquial way.
- What’s more: Introduces additional information that is often surprising or noteworthy.
- Plus: A very informal and concise way to add information.
Alternatives for Emphasis
These alternatives not only add information but also emphasize its importance or significance. They are useful when you want to highlight a particular point.
- Indeed: Confirms and emphasizes a previous statement.
- In fact: Introduces information that is surprising or contrary to what might be expected.
- More importantly: Highlights the significance of the added information.
- Significantly: Emphasizes the impact or importance of the added information.
Alternatives Indicating Sequence
These alternatives add information while also indicating a sequence or order of events or ideas. They are useful for creating a logical flow in your writing or speech.
- Next: Indicates the next step or point in a sequence.
- Then: Similar to “next,” but can also indicate a consequence or result.
- Subsequently: Indicates that something happens after something else.
- Following that: Similar to “subsequently,” but more formal.
- Afterward: Indicates something happens at a later time.
Examples
The following sections provide extensive examples of how to use the alternatives to “also” in various contexts. Each section focuses on a specific category of alternatives, illustrating their nuances and appropriate usage.
Formal Examples
This table provides examples of formal alternatives to “also,” demonstrating their use in academic and professional contexts.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Furthermore | The research indicates a strong correlation between exercise and mental health. Furthermore, it suggests that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic diseases. |
| Moreover | The company has demonstrated consistent growth over the past five years. Moreover, it has invested heavily in research and development, ensuring its long-term competitiveness. |
| In addition | The proposal outlines a comprehensive marketing strategy. In addition, it includes a detailed budget and timeline for implementation. |
| Additionally | The software update improves system performance. Additionally, it enhances security features to protect user data. |
| Besides | The project requires significant financial investment. Besides, it demands a team of highly skilled professionals. |
| Furthermore | The report highlights several areas for improvement within the department. Furthermore, it offers specific recommendations for addressing these issues. |
| Moreover | The new policy aims to promote diversity and inclusion within the organization. Moreover, it seeks to create a more equitable and supportive work environment for all employees. |
| In addition | The conference will feature keynote speakers from various industries. In addition, it will offer workshops and networking opportunities for attendees. |
| Additionally | The scholarship program provides financial assistance to deserving students. Additionally, it offers mentorship and guidance to help them succeed in their academic pursuits. |
| Besides | The company is committed to environmental sustainability. Besides, it is actively involved in community outreach programs. |
| Furthermore | The study reveals a significant increase in student engagement. Furthermore, it links this engagement to improved academic performance. |
| Moreover | The proposed legislation addresses critical issues related to public health. Moreover, it aims to reduce healthcare costs for all citizens. |
| In addition | The museum offers a wide range of exhibits and educational programs. In addition, it hosts special events and lectures throughout the year. |
| Additionally | The university provides resources and support for international students. Additionally, it offers language courses and cultural exchange programs. |
| Besides | The job requires excellent communication skills. Besides, it demands a strong ability to work independently and as part of a team. |
| Furthermore | The analysis indicates a growing demand for renewable energy sources. Furthermore, it suggests that investing in these technologies is crucial for addressing climate change. |
| Moreover | The company has a strong commitment to ethical business practices. Moreover, it adheres to the highest standards of corporate governance. |
| In addition | The training program covers a wide range of topics relevant to the industry. In addition, it provides hands-on experience and practical skills development. |
| Additionally | The project aims to improve access to healthcare in underserved communities. Additionally, it focuses on promoting preventive care and health education. |
| Besides | The role requires a strong background in finance. Besides, it demands excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. |
Informal Examples
This table provides examples of informal alternatives to “also,” demonstrating their use in everyday conversations and casual writing.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Too | I’m going to the store. I need to buy milk, and I need to buy bread, too. |
| As well | She’s bringing the drinks. She’s bringing snacks as well. |
| On top of that | The car broke down. On top of that, it started raining. |
| What’s more | He forgot his wallet. What’s more, he left his phone at home. |
| Plus | It’s a great location. Plus, the rent is really affordable. |
| Too | I’m feeling tired today. I have a headache, too. |
| As well | He plays the guitar. He sings as well. |
| On top of that | The flight was delayed. On top of that, they lost my luggage. |
| What’s more | She aced the exam. What’s more, she finished it in record time. |
| Plus | The movie was hilarious. Plus, the acting was superb. |
| Too | I need to buy some groceries. I need to pick up the dry cleaning, too. |
| As well | They’re planning a picnic. They’re inviting all their friends as well. |
| On top of that | The printer ran out of ink. On top of that, the paper jammed. |
| What’s more | He won the lottery. What’s more, he donated a large portion to charity. |
| Plus | The weather is beautiful. Plus, there’s a cool breeze. |
| Too | I’m learning Spanish. I want to learn French, too. |
| As well | She’s a talented dancer. She’s a skilled singer as well. |
| On top of that | The restaurant was crowded. On top of that, the service was slow. |
| What’s more | He got a promotion. What’s more, he received a significant raise. |
| Plus | The apartment is spacious. Plus, it has a great view. |
Emphasis Examples
This table provides examples of alternatives to “also” that add emphasis to the information being conveyed.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Indeed | The project was challenging. Indeed, it was the most difficult task we had ever undertaken. |
| In fact | He claimed to be an expert. In fact, he had no prior experience in the field. |
| More importantly | The company needs to increase its revenue. More importantly, it needs to improve its customer service. |
| Significantly | The new policy will reduce costs. Significantly, it will streamline operations and improve efficiency. |
| Indeed | The situation is serious. Indeed, it requires immediate attention and decisive action. |
| In fact | She said she was tired. In fact, she had been working non-stop for the past 48 hours. |
| More importantly | We need to address the immediate crisis. More importantly, we need to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future. |
| Significantly | The new technology will improve productivity. Significantly, it will reduce the risk of human error. |
| Indeed | The results were impressive. Indeed, they exceeded all expectations. |
| In fact | He appeared calm and collected. In fact, he was extremely nervous about the presentation. |
| More importantly | We need to focus on long-term goals. More importantly, we need to build a sustainable business model. |
| Significantly | The new strategy will increase market share. Significantly, it will enhance brand reputation and customer loyalty. |
| Indeed | The task was daunting. Indeed, it required a significant amount of time and effort. |
| In fact | She said she enjoyed the movie. In fact, she thought it was one of the best films she had ever seen. |
| More importantly | We need to improve our communication skills. More importantly, we need to build stronger relationships with our clients. |
| Significantly | The new initiative will reduce waste. Significantly, it will contribute to a more sustainable environment. |
Sequential Examples
This table provides examples of alternatives to “also” that indicate a sequence or order of events.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Next | First, we need to gather the data. Next, we will analyze the results. |
| Then | She completed her degree. Then, she started her career. |
| Subsequently | The contract was signed. Subsequently, the project commenced. |
| Following that | The presentation was well-received. Following that, the team secured funding for the project. |
| Afterward | We had dinner at the restaurant. Afterward, we went for a walk in the park. |
| Next | First, we need to define the problem. Next, we will brainstorm potential solutions. |
| Then | He finished his homework. Then, he went out to play with his friends. |
| Subsequently | The new policy was implemented. Subsequently, employee morale improved. |
| Following that | The training session was informative. Following that, participants were given a practical assignment. |
| Afterward | We attended the conference. Afterward, we explored the city. |
| Next | First, we need to prepare the ingredients. Next, we will start cooking. |
| Then | She read the book. Then, she wrote a review. |
| Subsequently | The new system was installed. Subsequently, efficiency increased significantly. |
| Following that | The experiment was conducted. Following that, the results were analyzed and documented. |
| Afterward | We visited the museum. Afterward, we had coffee at a nearby café. |
Usage Rules and Considerations
While the alternatives to “also” offer greater variety and precision, it’s crucial to understand their specific usage rules and considerations. Misusing these words can lead to confusion or sound unnatural.
- Formality: Be mindful of the formality of the context. Use formal alternatives in academic or professional settings and informal alternatives in casual conversations.
- Emphasis: Choose alternatives that accurately reflect the degree of emphasis you want to convey. “Indeed” and “in fact” are stronger than “as well” or “too.”
- Structure: Pay attention to the grammatical structure required by each alternative. Some alternatives require a new sentence or clause, while others can be integrated into the existing sentence.
- Redundancy: Avoid using multiple alternatives to “also” in the same sentence or paragraph, as this can sound repetitive and unnatural.
- Clarity: Ensure that the alternative you choose clearly conveys the intended meaning and does not create ambiguity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced English learners can make mistakes when using alternatives to “also.” Here are some common errors to watch out for:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| He is too a doctor. | He is a doctor too. | “Too” usually comes at the end of the sentence. |
| In addition, he is also a teacher. | In addition, he is a teacher. | Avoid using “also” with “in addition” as it is redundant. |
| Furthermore, but he is also a writer. | Furthermore, he is a writer. | “Furthermore” introduces a new, related point and doesn’t need “but.” |
| Besides, I like the food, I enjoy the atmosphere. | Besides liking the food, I enjoy the atmosphere. | When used as a preposition, “besides” requires a gerund or noun phrase. |
| Moreover, and he is also a musician. | Moreover, he is a musician. | “Moreover” should not be used with “and” as it is redundant. |
| She as well went to the party. | She went to the party as well. | “As well” typically comes at the end of the sentence. |
| What’s more, but he is also a good friend. | What’s more, he is a good friend. | “What’s more” introduces an additional point and doesn’t need “but.” |
| Significantly, also, it will reduce costs. | Significantly, it will reduce costs. | Avoid using “also” with “significantly” as it is redundant. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of the alternatives to “also” with these practice exercises. Choose the most appropriate alternative for each sentence.
Exercise 1: Choose the best alternative to “also.”
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| She speaks English. She speaks French, _____. | a) too b) furthermore c) in addition | a) too |
| The project is challenging. _____, it is very rewarding. | a) Moreover b) As well c) Plus | a) Moreover |
| The hotel is in a great location. _____, the service is excellent. | a) Besides b) What’s more c) Indeed | b) What’s more |
| He is a talented musician. _____, he is a skilled painter. | a) Furthermore b) Too c) As well | a) Furthermore |
| The company is committed to sustainability. _____, it invests in renewable energy. | a) In addition b) Besides c) Additionally | c) Additionally |
| I need to buy milk. I need to buy eggs, _____. | a) also b) too c) furthermore | b) too |
| The movie was great. _____, the soundtrack was amazing. | a) What’s more b) In addition c) As well | a) What’s more |
| The job requires strong communication skills. _____, it demands excellent problem-solving abilities. | a) Besides b) Too c) Indeed | a) Besides |
| She is a talented writer. _____, she is a gifted artist. | a) Moreover b) As well c) Plus | a) Moreover |
| The new policy will reduce costs. _____, it will improve efficiency. | a) Additionally b) Too c) What’s more | a) Additionally |
Exercise 2: Rewrite the following sentences using a suitable alternative to “also.”
| Original Sentence | Rewritten Sentence |
|---|---|
| He is a doctor. He is also a professor. | He is a doctor. Furthermore, he is a professor. |
| She enjoys reading. She also likes to travel. | She enjoys reading. She likes to travel as well. |
| The project is complex. It is also time-consuming. | The project is complex. Moreover, it is time-consuming. |
| The restaurant has great food. It also has a wonderful atmosphere. | The restaurant has great food. In addition, it has a wonderful atmosphere. |
| I need to buy groceries. I also need to pick up the dry cleaning. | I need to buy groceries. I need to pick up the dry cleaning, too. |
| He is fluent in English. He is also proficient in Spanish. | He is fluent in English. Additionally, he is proficient in Spanish. |
| She loves to dance. She also enjoys singing. | She loves to dance. She enjoys singing as well. |
| The task is challenging. It is also very rewarding. | The task is challenging. Indeed, it is very rewarding. |
| The hotel is conveniently located. It also offers excellent service. | The hotel is conveniently located. What’s more, it offers excellent service. |
| I need to finish this report. I also need to prepare for the meeting. | I need to finish this report. Besides, I need to prepare for the meeting. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, understanding the subtle nuances and contextual variations of alternatives to “also” can further refine their communication skills. This includes exploring idiomatic expressions, regional variations, and the impact of stylistic choices on the overall tone and effectiveness of writing and speech.
Consider the following advanced concepts:
- Idiomatic Usage: Some alternatives to “also” are used in idiomatic expressions that have specific meanings beyond their literal definitions. Understanding these idioms requires familiarity with the cultural context and nuances of the language.
- Regional Variations: The preferred alternatives to “also” can vary across different regions and dialects of English. Being aware of these regional variations can help you communicate more effectively with diverse audiences.
- Stylistic Choices: The choice of alternative to “also” can significantly impact the overall tone and style of your writing or speech. Experimenting with different alternatives can help you achieve the desired effect and create a more engaging and impactful message.
- Connotations: Each alternative to “also” carries slightly different connotations. Understanding these subtle differences can help you choose the most appropriate word for your specific purpose and audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about using alternatives to “also”:
- Is it always better to use an alternative to “also”?
Not necessarily. “Also” is a perfectly acceptable word, but overuse can make your writing or speech sound monotonous. Using alternatives adds variety and allows you to express different nuances.
- Which alternative is the most formal?
“Furthermore” and “moreover” are generally considered the most formal alternatives. They are suitable for academic writing and professional communication.
- Which alternative is the most informal?
“Too” and “plus” are the most informal alternatives. They are appropriate for casual conversations and informal writing.
- Can I use “in addition to” instead of “in addition”?
Yes, “in addition to” is a valid alternative. However, it requires a noun phrase or gerund after it (e.g., “In addition to the food, they brought drinks”).
- What’s the difference between “furthermore” and “moreover”?
Both “furthermore” and “moreover” add information, but “moreover” often introduces a more important or convincing point.
- Is it redundant to use “also” with other alternatives?
Yes, it is generally redundant to use “also” with alternatives like “in addition,” “furthermore,” or “moreover.” Choose one or the other, but not both.
- How do I choose the right alternative for a specific context?
Consider the formality of the context, the degree of emphasis you want to convey, and the grammatical structure required by each alternative. Choose the word that best fits these criteria.
- Are there any regional differences in the use of these alternatives?
Yes, there can be regional variations. Some alternatives may be more common in certain dialects of English than others. Pay attention to the language used by native speakers in your region.
Conclusion
Mastering alternatives to “also” is a valuable step in enhancing your English language skills. By understanding the nuances and appropriate usage of words like “furthermore,” “moreover,” “in addition,” and “besides,” you can significantly improve the clarity, variety, and impact of your communication.
This article has provided a comprehensive guide to these alternatives, including definitions, examples, usage rules, and practice exercises. Remember to consider the formality of the context, the degree of emphasis you want to convey, and the grammatical structure required by each alternative.
Continue to practice using these alternatives in your writing and speech to solidify your understanding and build confidence. Pay attention to how native speakers use these words in different contexts, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different options to find the best fit for your specific needs.
With consistent effort and attention to detail, you can confidently expand your vocabulary and express yourself more effectively in English, moving beyond the simple “also” to a richer and more nuanced range of expression.