Also, As Well, Too

Also, As Well, Too? How to Use Them Correctly

Hello dear English learners! Today we are looking at three little adverbs that often cause big confusion: also, as well, too. They all mean “in addition”, but we don’t use them in exactly the same way. Their main difference is where they appear in a sentence — and that’s what this lesson will help you understand.

Let’s go step by step.

ALSO

Also is more common in writing than in everyday conversation.

Unlike as well and too, also can appear in different positions in a sentence.

At the beginning for emphasis

Use this when you want to add important extra information.

• Anette is very intelligent. Also, she is talented in music.
• It’s a lovely town. Also, it’s close to the beach.

After the subject / after a modal or auxiliary verb

This is the most typical position.

• I can play football, but I can also play basketball.
• She works very hard, but she also exercises twice a week.
• They have also finished the report.

This use usually connects the sentence to the previous idea. 

End position

You can use also at the end, but it’s less natural. Most of the time, we prefer as well or too.

• She emailed him but he didn’t reply.
• He didn’t answer the phone either. (best)
• He didn’t answer the phone too / as well. (natural)
• He didn’t answer the phone also. (possible but not common)

AS WELL

As well is much more common in spoken English.

We normally place it at the end of a sentence.

• I speak English, and I can speak French as well.
• I’ll have a coffee, and I’ll have a cupcake as well.
• She teaches online and works at a language school as well.

It sounds polite, soft, and conversational.

TOO

Too is also placed at the end of the sentence, just like as well.

• Tom is tired. He’s hungry, too.
• I enjoyed the film. My friends liked it, too.

Special use: in short responses

We use too very commonly in everyday replies:

• A: Have a good time!
• B: You too!
• A: I love this song!
• B: Me too!

Quick Summary

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