Also vs Too vs As Well

Also vs Too vs As Well

Before we go deeply into the similarities and differences between also, too, and as well, let know some general information first:

• They all express the idea of addition (in addition) .. Ah! You can use "in addition" instead of "also, too, as well". (Except for "too" which sometimes means "very"). They almost have the same meaning; that's why they're being used interchangeably.
• Some of the reasons why we change between them is to avoid being repetitive and boring . 
• None of them are used in "negative" statements. Instead, we use "either" or "neither".

I can’t go to Mardi Gras this year.

That’s sad. Neither can I. (I can’t either.)

And now, let's dig deeper:

Also:

Word Type/Class: Adverb

Synonyms/Words of the Same Meaning: likewise , so , besides , furthermore, on top of that, moreover.

Usage: 

• Used more in writing, less common in speaking. 
• More formal.
• In positive sentences, to show agreement or something in common.

 Alan studies English. He also studies French.

 I’ll call you later so we can discuss it. Also, are you coming to the meeting tomorrow? 

We work very hard but we also love to have fun. 

Position/placement:

• In front position (Beginning of a sentence) to show emphasis or highlight an idea, separated by a comma (,). 
• At the middle of a sentence. Usually used to introduce a new or related topic.

 It’s very hot. Also, the humidity is too high.

• In end position to connect 2 phrases. (It's usually substituted by "too" and "as well" in speaking. 

I tried to call him but he didn't answer. His phone was silent also.  .... was silent as well/too

• After the auxiliary verb or verb to be and before the main verb. (between the auxiliary and the main verb) 

 He studies very hard and he also goes to the gym regularly.

 I've been reading a lot this week, and I've also been helping my father. 

Sandy can join us. Helene can also join us.

We were also here yesterday.

I'm also travelling tomorrow.

•   Before a single action verb.

Nihal also -> speaks French.

He also ->likes to read poetry.

👉 When we use Also at the beginning of a sentence, it means ‘moreover’. 

Too:

Word Type/Class: Adverb

Synonyms/Words of the Same Meaning: likewise, very, so , besides, unreasonably, extremely

Usage:

• The most "informal". 
•  Used in both writing and speaking
•  Gives the meaning of "in addition", and "very" or "too much"
• Not only is he good looking, he's nice too!
•  in positive sentences, to show agreement and exaggeration of the "adjective" (above normal)

My tea is too hot to drink. (not also or as well)

First car is too expensive, second one is too old, this one is the right choice  

•  As a response.

Have a nice day! You too!

Position/placement:

•  Immediately After the subject, if it refers directly to the subject. (comma is optional)

I too thought she looked unwell.

We, too, have been very pleased to receive the prize on her behalf.

👉 We have too been very pleased … wrong

• In the end of the sentence to show emphasis. In this case it comes after a comma ", too".

She looks really tired and she must be really hungry too.

I like chocolate, too.

Not only do I love this dress, it's on sale, too! 

• Never comes at the beginning of a clause.

As Well:

Word Type/Class: Phrase (two Words)

Synonyms/Words of the Same Meaning: likewise , so , besides , furthermore, on top of that
Usage:

• Much more common in speaking than in writing
• a little more formal than “too”
• Shows "emphasis" .. same as "too". In this, both "as well", "too" and ""also" show emphasis.

Pick up your clothes, and clean your room as well (too).

• Difference is in their place. Also comes in the beginning, while as well and too come in the end.
• in Positive sentences, to show agreement or something in common.
• To connect two sentences
• To show that the result is the same

We might as well go to bed, there's no power. (Same equal result whether we stay awake or "go to bed" as "there's no electricity/power".

Position/placement:

•  Comes in the end to connect the 2 sentences

He bought a nice shirt. He bought an expensive watch as well.

• Never comes at the beginning of a clause.
• Generally comes at the end of the sentence.

Is it just your husband or are you coming as well?

Will Beyoncé sing at the concert as well, or just Jay-Z?