also

Also is a versatile English word used as an adverb and as part of certain conjunction constructions. As an adverb, it means in addition or too, and it can modify verbs, adjectives, or entire clauses. For example: “She can speak French and Spanish; she can also speak Italian.” It can appear mid-sentence or at the beginning for emphasis, as in “Also, we should consider the long-term costs.”

As a conjunction, also appears in the common correlative construction not only... but also, which links two parallel ideas and emphasizes addition. For example: “Not only did the plan fail, but it also caused delays.” This usage is widely accepted in formal and informal writing, though not as informal as using “too” or “as well.”

Usage and style notes

Also is more formal than some substitutes and is frequently preferred in writing and careful speech. It is distinct from too and as well in placement: too typically comes at the end of a clause (“I ran fast, too.”), while also tends to precede the main verb or follow an auxiliary (“She has also finished.”). In casual speech, speakers may opt for simpler alternatives like “besides” or “as well.”

Etymology and history

The word has Old English roots, with related forms in early Germanic languages that conveyed addition or similarity. Today, also remains a common, flexible part of English grammar, enabling speakers to add information smoothly and with nuance.