Starting a sentence can sometimes feel like standing at the edge of a cliff. Every word we choose pushes us closer to either clarity or confusion. In the English language, rules are more like guidelines. They’re not carved in stone, but rather drawn in the sand, waiting for the next wave to reshape them. Today, we’re looking at a tiny word that packs a punch: “also.”
Many of us have been there, mid-conversation or deep in writing, when suddenly we pause. The word “also” pops up at the beginning of our sentence, and we freeze. A voice from the past echoes in our minds – a teacher’s warning that starting with “also” is incorrect. But is it really? Language evolves, and with it, so do its rules.
The answer might change how you approach writing forever.
Starting a sentence with “Also” is perfectly fine in both writing and speaking. This word is often used to add more information or to introduce an idea that relates to what was mentioned before. While some might think it’s informal, it’s widely accepted in most contexts, including academic writing. The key is making sure the sentence flows well and your use of “Also” helps clarify your point rather than confuse readers. So, feel free to use “Also” at the beginning of sentences when you need to connect ideas smoothly.
The Role of Conjunctive Adverbs in Sentence Structure
Conjunctive adverbs like “also” play a pivotal role in sentence structure by linking related ideas or actions. Specifically, “also” indicates the addition of another thought to the current discussion. Similarly situated conjunctive adverbs are “additionally,” “furthermore,” “as well,” and “too.” In contrast, putting “also” within a sentence joins phrases, signifying alignment with or addition to the preceding statements.
Mastering the proper use of conjunctions helps create clear, cohesive text. Using conjunctive adverbs provides a convenient way to achieve this, making your writing more effective and pleasant to read. Here are some essential grammar tips for using conjunctive adverbs, focusing on sentence linking and addition in a sentence:
- Choose the appropriate conjunctive adverb based on the context and desired outcome.
- Place the conjunctive adverb within the sentence according to its purpose.
- Use proper punctuation, such as commas or semicolons, to correctly signal the relationship between clauses.
“Understanding the subtle differences between conjunctive adverbs and their functions can significantly improve the quality of the writing.”
Additionally, it’s important to recognize that different conjunctive adverbs have distinct nuances that can impact the tone and formality of your text. Therefore, selecting the most fitting conjunctive adverb based on the intended meaning and context is crucial.
In short, conjunctive adverbs like “also” are instrumental in sentence linking and addition in sentence, helping to connect related ideas within a text. By paying attention to the proper use and placement of conjunctive adverbs, you can enhance the readability and clarity of your writing, giving your readers a more enjoyable and engaging experience.
Common Misconceptions About Starting Sentences with “Also”
There exists a myth, akin to the discredited rule against starting sentences with “and,” that beginning a sentence with “also” is improper. This is unfounded, as no actual grammatical rule prohibits such usage, and it is widely accepted even in scientific writing.
The Origin of the Myth
Similar to the myths surrounding the use of “and” or “but” at the beginning of sentences, the hesitance to use “also” as a sentence starter likely stems from outdated teachings and misconceptions about writing clarity. These writing myths often have no basis in grammar rules, and dispelling them can help writers embrace the dynamic nature of language.
How Speaking Patterns Influence Writing
Speaking patterns often differ from writing standards, leading to confusions such as the hesitancy to start sentences with “also.” In spoken language, “also” may come off as an afterthought which can carry over into writing, potentially impacting the organization and clarity of the text. Care should be taken in written communication to ensure that “also” serves a purpose of linking thoughts cohesively rather than as an impromptu addition.
One way to achieve greater cohesion in your writing is to consider how language patterns in speaking vs. writing might be influencing your thoughts and organization. By carefully reviewing your sentence structure and the use of conjunctive adverbs like “also,” you can develop a consistent and logical flow of ideas that maintains writing clarity.
There is no rule against starting a sentence with ‘also,’ and doing so is widely accepted even in scientific writing.
As language evolves and the boundary between formal and informal writing blurs, it is essential to stay informed about current grammar practices and adapt accordingly. By shedding unfounded grammar myths and embracing the versatile use of words like “also” in your writing, you can create engaging and clear content that effectively conveys your ideas.
Understanding the Use of “Also” in Formal and Informal Writing
Despite concerns to the contrary, beginning sentences with “also” is well accepted in both formal writing and informal writing contexts. No matter the style, the proper usage of “also” contributes to clearer communication, allowing readers to follow the continuity of ideas throughout a text.
In formal writing, techniques such as fronting and inversion may be employed, where the adverb “also” takes the forefront in a sentence but without necessitating a comma. For example:
“Also in favor of the proposal were members of the scientific community.”
Informal writing tends to be more forgiving and mirrors speech more closely. As such, it is not uncommon for sentences to begin with “also” in a variety of casual contexts, such as:
“Also, we should grab some coffee before the meeting.”
Regardless, coherence and relation to previous sentences remain paramount when introducing “also” at the start. To help distinguish between formal and informal writing, consider the following aspects:
- Word Usage: Formal writing often focuses on precise, unambiguous language, while informal communication may utilize colloquialisms or more casual word choices.
- Tone: Formal writing typically adopts a more serious and objective tone, while informal writing may convey a more conversational or relaxed atmosphere.
- Punctuation and Grammar: Formal writing adheres more strictly to grammar rules and punctuation, while informal writing may be more flexible in its adherence to grammatical norms.
Ultimately, the appropriateness of starting a sentence with “also” is well established, regardless of the writing context. By maintaining thoughtful connections to preceding sentences, “also” serves as an effective tool in linking related ideas and ensuring a cohesive flow throughout a piece of writing.
Strategies for Effectively Incorporating “Also” at the Start of a Sentence
When using “also” to begin a sentence, the key lies in maintaining continuity and deploying proper punctuation. The following two strategies will guide you in effectively incorporating “also” at the beginning of your sentences.
Continuity Between Thoughts
First, it is essential to establish logical and thematic continuity between the sentence starting with “also” and the preceding statement. The purpose of “also” in this context is to serve as a smooth and naturally flowing link, expanding upon previously expressed ideas rather than introducing unrelated points.
For example, consider the following sentences: “I love classic movies from the 1940s. Also, I am a big fan of film noir.”
In this example, the use of “also” appropriately links two related ideas about the individual’s taste in movies, creating coherence between the sentences.
The Importance of Punctuation with “Also”
Another critical aspect of using “also” effectively at the start of a sentence is proper punctuation. When including “also” at the beginning, it is crucial to follow it with a comma to delimit the connection being made. This comma signals the additive nature of the sentence and helps readers understand the relationship between consecutive sentences.
For instance, the following sentence demonstrates correct punctuation: “Also, I enjoy contemporary films with strong female leads.”
By including a comma after “also,” you ensure that your sentences clearly express the desired connection while maintaining grammar accuracy.
Examples of “Also” in Action at the Beginning of Sentences
To better understand the proper use of “also” at the start of a sentence through real-life applications, check out these examples that demonstrate its addition to the presented facts or arguments:
Many people enjoy participating in outdoor activities like hiking and camping. Also, birdwatching and canoeing are quite popular in the area.
In this example, the main point is the popularity of outdoor activities. By starting the following sentence with “also,” the writer efficiently introduces additional outdoor pursuits without interrupting the main theme of the paragraph.
Let’s examine another case:
Toyota is known for its fuel-efficient vehicles, such as the Prius and Corolla. Also, Honda has a reputation for producing environmentally friendly cars like the Insight and Civic.
Here, the use of “also” serves to connect the reputation of Toyota and Honda in terms of fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness. The continuity of thought is maintained, highlighting the relevance of the brands’ achievements in the automotive industry.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are high in essential vitamins and minerals. Also, incorporating them into your daily diet can help improve digestion and overall health.
In this instance, the discussion starts with the nutritional value of fresh fruits and vegetables, and the introduction of “also” brings forth another benefit of including them in your diet. The result is a strong bond and added interest as the passage expands on the value of these food choices.
Here are more examples neatly displayed in a list format for your reference:
- Modern smartphones offer numerous features for communication and entertainment. Also, they can aid with navigation and provide access to essential services.
- Exercising regularly has been linked to improved mental health and stress reduction. Also, physical activity can contribute to weight management and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
- Online shopping has become increasingly popular due to convenience and ease of use. Also, it allows customers to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase.
These samples should help you better understand the positioning and function of “also” at the beginning of a sentence, where it enables a smooth presentation of further information while strengthening the relationship between connected thoughts.
Alternatives to “Also” and How They Differ in Tone and Formality
While also is a versatile conjunctive adverb, there are several alternatives at your disposal, such as “furthermore,” “additionally,” “moreover,” and “as well.” These synonyms can differ subtly in tone and formality, with some (like “furthermore”) being more formal and others (like “too”) being more conversational. The choice among these alternatives can subtly shift the perceived sophistication or casualness of your writing.
Let’s explore these also alternatives to help you determine which suits your writing tone and level of formality in writing:
- Furthermore – This alternative adds a sense of progression to your writing and is well-suited for academic or more formal contexts.
- Additionally – Often used interchangeably with “furthermore,” this alternative can add new information or emphasize additional points, appropriate for both formal and informal writing.
- Moreover – Similar to “furthermore” and “additionally,” this alternative introduces new information and can be used in formal and semi-formal writing.
- As well – This alternative, generally used informally, indicates that something is true in addition to what has already been mentioned.
- Too – Typically considered informal or conversational, this alternative is similar in meaning to “as well” but is more casual in tone.
Here’s an example that demonstrates the difference in tone and formality:
He was an exceptional student, always earning top marks. Also, he served as president of the debate team.
He was an exceptional student, always earning top marks. Furthermore, he served as president of the debate team.
He was an exceptional student, always earning top marks. Too, he served as president of the debate team.
As seen above, the choice of alternative can subtly influence the tone and formality of the sentence. The proper selection of alternatives for “also” can help tailor your writing to the target audience and the desired level of formality. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different options and strike the right balance in your writing.
Concluding Thoughts on the Use of “Also” as a Sentence Starter
As you have learned, using “also” to begin a sentence is not only grammatically correct but also widely accepted in various writing contexts. When incorporating “also” at the start of a sentence, ensure it contributes to a previous idea and upholds fluency and clarity throughout the text. By doing so, you can achieve clear and effective communication, whether in speech or writing.
Remember, the key to successfully using “also” as a sentence starter is linking related thoughts cohesively. It is essential to maintain a logical flow and adhere to proper punctuation, such as including a comma after “also.” With these points in mind, you can skillfully employ “also” to create seamless transitions between related ideas and refine your sentence construction abilities.
Overall, understanding the appropriate use of “also” and its alternatives can greatly enhance your writing skills and versatility, enabling you to make informed decisions on tone and formality. So go ahead, confidently begin your sentences with “also” as you continue to excel in all aspects of grammar and sentence construction.
