What is also? Pronunciation and usage in English

also means . Learn how to pronounce and use also through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of also

alsoadverb

/ˈɔːlsəʊ/
Definition & pronunciation of also

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "also" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The Most Common (and Generally Accepted) Pronunciation:

  • ˈɔːlsoʊ (stress on the first syllable)

Let's break that down further:

  • ˈɔː - This is the most important part. It sounds like the "or" in "born" or "caught." It's a broad "aw" sound, slightly longer than the "a" in "cat." Many people find this the hardest part to get right.
  • ls - This is a simple "l" sound followed by an "s" sound.
  • ˈsoʊ - This sounds like "so," with the emphasis on that syllable. The 'o' here is a rounded "o" sound, like in "go" or "hot."

Here's a phonetic breakdown for those who prefer it:

  • /ˈɔːlsoʊ/ (This is using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA)

Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "al-so." That's a very common mistake! The 'a' sound is wrong.
  • Avoid a short "aw" sound like in "law." It needs to be a fuller, longer "aw."
  • Listen to native speakers: This is crucial. Here are some resources:
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/%C3%A8lso/ (Allows you to hear multiple pronunciations from different speakers)
    • Google Translate: Type "also" in and click the speaker icon.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce 'also' in English" - you'll find plenty of videos.

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

  • Where are you from? (Your native language can influence how you pronounce English sounds.)

Usage and examples with the word also in English

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

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"?

Synonyms for the word also

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