Also In a Sentence

To use "also" in a sentence, place it before the main verb or after the subject to add or emphasize additional information. It can also be positioned at the beginning or end of a sentence to connect ideas or highlight similarities.

What Does 'Also' Mean?

"Also" means "in addition to" or "as well." It is used to introduce additional information or to show that something is similar to something else previously mentioned. When you use "also," you're effectively saying, "this too."

Examples:

  • I enjoy reading. I also like writing.
  • She is coming to the meeting. He is also attending.
  • They visited the museum. We also went there.
  • The presentation was informative. It was also engaging.
  • We have a budget meeting today. Also, we need to finalize the project plan.

Where to Place 'Also' in a Sentence

"Also" is a flexible word that can be placed in various positions within a sentence, each placement carrying a slightly different emphasis.

1. Beginning of a Sentence: When "also" is placed at the beginning of a sentence, it emphasizes the addition of a new idea or point that connects to the previous sentence.

Example:

  • I finished the report. Also, I reviewed the data thoroughly.

2. After the Subject: Placing "also" immediately after the subject highlights the subject’s action in addition to something already mentioned.

Example:

  • She also wants to attend the conference.

3. Before the Main Verb: When "also" is placed before the main verb, it suggests that the action mentioned is in addition to other actions.

Example:

  • He also considered the alternatives before making a decision.

4. End of a Sentence: Putting "also" at the end of a sentence is less common but can still be correct. This placement often emphasizes the addition casually.

Example:

  • She will bring the documents also.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using "also" correctly can sometimes be tricky, especially for learners of English. Below are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them:

1. Overuse of "Also": Learners often use "also" excessively within a single sentence or paragraph, leading to repetition and redundancy.

  • Incorrect: She also brought the files and also checked the report.
  • Correct: She brought the files and also checked the report.

2. Incorrect Placement of "Also": Placing "also" in the wrong part of the sentence can confuse the reader and disrupt the sentence’s flow.

  • Incorrect: He wants to also go to the party.
  • Correct: He also wants to go to the party.

3. Using "Also" in Negative Sentences: "Also" is typically used in affirmative sentences. In negative sentences, "either" is usually the correct choice.

  • Incorrect: She didn’t like the movie also.
  • Correct: She didn’t like the movie either.

More Examples of 'Also' in Everyday Sentences

To further illustrate the use of "also," here are additional examples:

  • The team met their goals. They also exceeded expectations.
  • John is fluent in Spanish. He also speaks French.
  • We need to complete the project. Also, the budget needs to be reviewed.
  • She is skilled in graphic design. She also has experience in web development.
  • The CEO attended the meeting. The CFO also participated.

Practice Exercises

To reinforce your understanding, try the following exercises. Rewrite the sentences using "also" correctly, and check your answers below.

Exercise 1:

Rewrite: I went to the store. I bought bread. (Use "also" to combine the sentences.)

Exercise 2:

Rewrite: Maria is a talented singer. She plays the guitar. (Use "also" to show her additional skill.)

Exercise 3:

Rewrite: He finished his homework. He cleaned his room. (Place "also" in the sentence.)

Exercise 4:

Rewrite: The presentation was informative. It was engaging. (Use "also" to connect the two ideas.)

Exercise 5:

Rewrite: The company offers great benefits. The salary is competitive. (Use "also" at the beginning of the second sentence.)

Answers to Practice Exercises:

  1. I went to the store. I also bought bread.
  2. Maria is a talented singer. She also plays the guitar.
  3. He finished his homework. He also cleaned his room.
  4. The presentation was informative. It was also engaging.
  5. The company offers great benefits. Also, the salary is competitive.