What is also? How to use in English

Okay, let's break down how to use "also" in English. It's a versatile word that adds extra information, but knowing how to use it correctly can make your writing and speaking sound more polished.

1. Basic Usage – Adding Similar Information

• Function: "Also" is primarily used to introduce an additional piece of information that is similar to what you've already said. Think of it as saying "in addition."

• Examples:

  • "I like chocolate cake. Also, I love vanilla." (Both are types of cake.)
  • "She enjoys reading books. Also, she likes listening to audiobooks." (Both are ways to enjoy reading.)
  • "The weather is nice today. Also, the flowers are blooming." (Both positive aspects of the day.)

2. Placement – Where to Put "Also"

• After a Comma: This is the most common placement.

  • "I went to the store. Also, I bought groceries."
  • "He plays the guitar. Also, he sings."

• After a Semi-Colon (;) Use a semi-colon when you’re joining two closely related independent clauses (sentences that could stand alone).

  • “She studied hard; also, she got a good grade." (Both statements relate to her academic success.)

• At the Beginning of a Sentence (Less Common, More Formal): This is more formal and often used in academic or professional writing. It’s usually followed by a comma.

  • "Also, the study revealed a significant correlation." (More formal way of saying, “In addition, the study revealed…”)

3. Using "Also" with Lists

• You can use "also" to introduce items in a list.

  • "I have several hobbies. Also, I enjoy gardening."
  • "The ingredients are: flour, sugar, also butter."

4. Important Considerations & Common Mistakes

• Don't Overuse It: "Also" can sound repetitive if you use it too frequently. Vary your phrasing. Sometimes simply "and" or rephrasing will work better.

• Don’t Use it to Connect Completely Different Ideas: "Also" is best when the additional information is related to the previous statement.

  • Incorrect: “I went to the park. Also, I cleaned my room.” (Cleaning your room isn't directly related to the park.)
  • Correct: "I went to the park. And I cleaned my room." (Or, "I went to the park, and I also cleaned my room.")

• "So" vs. "Also": These words have slightly different meanings. “So” indicates a result or consequence. “Also” simply adds information.

  • “It rained, so I took an umbrella. Also, I brought a raincoat.” (The rain caused you to take the umbrella.)

5. Synonyms for “Also” (to help you vary your language)

• In addition
• Furthermore
• Moreover
• Besides
• As well (as)
• Too

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To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

• What kind of writing are you working on (e.g., essays, emails, stories)?
• Could you provide an example sentence where you're unsure about using "also"?