"Too", "as well", "also", and "either" have the same meaning. They are all used to show how things or people are the same, but they are used in different ways. How to use too, as well, also, and either:
Also
more formal / used in writing
used before an action verb OR after a "be verb"
positive sentences
can be found in the beginning, middle or end of a sentence - You will get wet at the beach. Also, you might get a sunburn. - I will call again at 5pm after your meeting. Also, we need to set up a date to discuss the plans for next quarter. - She lives in Tainan. He also lives in Tainan. (used before an action verb) - Jack is happy. I am also happy. (after a "be verb") - I called him from the office, but he didn't pick up. He didn't pick up his cell phone also. (In speech: His phone was on silent mode too/as well.)
Too
informal / used in spoken English
used at the end of the sentence
positive sentence
Example: - Can I come too? - She likes surfing. I like surfing too. - Sara is short. Katie is short, too. - She looks really tired from standing all day at the booth and she must be really hungry too.
As well
informal / used in spoken English
used at the end of the sentence
Example: - Are you coming as well? - (ordering at a restaurant) I’ll have pork chops please. And I’ll have the salmon fillet as well.
Common mistakes: (O) You can bring your own drink. I think everybody else did as well. (X) You can bring your own drink. As well I think everybody else did.
Either
negative sentences (= sentence with the word "not")
used at the end of the sentence OR to give choices or alternatives
Example: - A: I don't like carrots. / B: I don't like it either. - She isn't short. Her sister isn't short either. ***cannot use also*** Use either to add another negative fact - We can eat either beef or pork. (give choices or alternatives)
Use "too" and "either" for short answers in speech:
A: I have a dog. B: Me too.
A: Jane didn't come to the party. B: Ken either.
Common mistakes:
(X) Jane's not here. I don't think Amber is also/as well/too, is she?
(X) She isn't short. Her sister also isn't short. (don't use also/as well/too with "not")
Now, your turn, try these practice questions:
1. Jill’s having steak. I’ll probably have steak _____.
A. too
B. also
C. either
D. as well
2. She has been complaining about her weight but she ______ eat snacks all the time.
A. too
B. also
C. either
D. as well
3. I can play ______ basketball or soccer tonight, it's up to you.
A. too
B. also
C. either
D. as well
↘ What is your answers? Comment below and practice making sentences on your own! ↙ . .. ... .... ..... ...... ....... ........ .......... ............ ................ Answer bank: Answer 1: A, D / Answer 2: B / Answer 3: C (Did you get them all right? Let me know :)
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