Learning English can be tricky, especially when it comes to grammar rules and sentence structure. One question that often confuses learners is whether you can say “and also” in a sentence. Many students wonder if using and also is correct or if it sounds redundant. Understanding the proper usage of conjunctions like and, also, and other linking words is essential for clear and effective communication.
In English, conjunctions are words that connect ideas, sentences, or phrases. While and is used to join similar ideas, also emphasizes addition or extra information. Combining them as “and also” is sometimes acceptable but can depend on the context and the tone of writing or speech. Using it incorrectly might make a sentence feel awkward or redundant, which can confuse readers or listeners.
This guide will break down when you can say “and also”, common mistakes to avoid, and alternative ways to express the same idea more naturally. Whether you’re improving your English writing skills, preparing for exams, or just want to speak more confidently, understanding this small but important grammar rule can make a big difference.
Understanding “And” and “Also” Separately
Before tackling “and also,” it’s essential to understand the words individually.
The Role of “And” as a Coordinating Conjunction
The word “and” is a coordinating conjunction. Its main job is to connect two ideas, items, or actions.
- It adds information: I bought apples and oranges.
- It combines actions: She runs every morning and swims in the evening.
Notice how “and” already implies addition. Using “and also” in these cases can create redundancy.
The Function of “Also” as an Adverb
“Also” is an adverb that emphasizes addition. Unlike “and,” it modifies the verb or clause.
- Placement matters. Examples:
- Correct: She also likes painting.
- Correct: I will also attend the meeting.
- Variations: “too” and “as well” can often replace “also” in casual contexts.
In short, “and” connects ideas, while “also” emphasizes them.
Why “And Also” Is Usually Redundant
Using “and also” is often unnecessary because both words communicate the same addition. This double addition can clutter your writing.
The Problem of Double Addition
When you say, “I bought bread and also milk,” you are adding “bread” and “milk” twice. This can sound awkward.
Examples of Redundant vs. Clean Sentences
| Redundant Sentence | Improved Version |
| I called him and also texted. | I called him and texted. |
| She baked cookies and also a cake. | She baked cookies and a cake. |
| We visited Paris and also London. | We visited Paris and London. |
By eliminating “also,” your writing becomes smoother and easier to read.
When Native Speakers Actually Use “And Also”
Even though grammar guides often warn against it, native speakers sometimes use “and also”, especially in spoken English.
Informal Speech and Emphasis
In conversations, people may say:
- “I went to the store, and also I wanted to see the new movie.”
Here, “and also” adds emphasis and gives the sentence a casual, flowing rhythm.
Spoken English vs. Written English
- Spoken English: Frequent use, sounds natural.
- Formal writing: Rarely used; considered redundant or unprofessional.
Knowing the context is key. What works in speech may not fit in a business email or academic essay.
Situations Where “And Also” Can Be Acceptable
There are exceptions where “and also” adds value.
Adding Strong Emphasis
Use “and also” when the second idea is unexpected or important:
- She not only finished the project but also impressed the entire team.
This gives weight to the second action.
Long or Complex Sentences
In sentences with multiple clauses, “and also” can help re-focus the reader:
- The company expanded into Europe, opened new offices, and also launched an online platform.
Academic and Rhetorical Contexts
In rare cases, writers may intentionally use “and also” for stylistic reasons, particularly in rhetoric or persuasive writing.
Better Alternatives to “And Also”
Instead of stacking “and” and “also,” choose more precise alternatives.
Single-Word Alternatives
- Also
- Too
- As well
- Additionally
- Moreover
- Furthermore
Phrase-Based Alternatives
- In addition
- On top of that
- Not only that
- Along with this
Comparison Table: Choosing the Right Alternative
| Context | Best Option | Tone |
| Casual speech | Too | Relaxed |
| Formal writing | Moreover | Professional |
| Emails | Additionally | Neutral |
| Storytelling | On top of that | Expressive |
Correct Placement of “Also” in Sentences
Even when using “also” alone, placement affects clarity.
Position in Simple Sentences
- Before main verbs: She also enjoys reading.
- After “be” verbs: He is also a talented musician.
Position in Complex Sentences
- With modal verbs: She can also participate in the discussion.
- With auxiliary verbs: They have also completed the report.
Common Placement Mistakes
- Incorrect: Also she likes chocolate.
- Correct: She also likes chocolate.
Proper placement ensures sentences flow naturally.
How “And Also” Affects Writing Quality
Impact on Readability
Redundant phrasing like “and also” can slow the reader down. Clear, concise sentences improve comprehension and make your writing more professional.
Professional Writing Concerns
- Editors prefer economical phrasing.
- Redundant words may hurt readability scores.
- Clean language keeps readers engaged longer.
Real-Life Examples from Different Writing Styles
Business Emails
- Redundant: We met with the client and also discussed future plans.
- Improved: We met with the client and discussed future plans.
Academic Writing
- Redundant: The study examined health factors and also considered environmental variables.
- Improved: The study examined health and environmental factors.
Blog and Content Writing
- Casual: I visited Rome and also Florence last summer.
- Improved: I visited Rome and Florence last summer.
Social Media and Messaging
- Acceptable in casual tone: I went to the concert, and also met some friends.
How to Train Yourself to Avoid “And Also”
Editing Checklist
- Does “and” already imply addition?
- Does “also” add meaningful emphasis?
- If not, remove one of them.
Practical Exercises
- Rewrite redundant sentences.
- Read aloud to catch clunky phrasing.
- Compare your version to professional examples.
Tools and Resources
- Grammarly – Detects redundancy
- Hemingway Editor – Improves readability
- ProWritingAid – Style and grammar insights
Common Myths About “And Also”
- Myth: “Native speakers use it all the time.”
Fact: Mostly in casual speech, not in formal writing. - Myth: “It’s grammatically wrong.”
Fact: It’s not wrong but often unnecessary. - Myth: “It sounds more polite.”
Fact: Politeness doesn’t require redundancy.
Frequently Confused Additive Expressions
- “And too” vs. “And also” – “Too” is simpler and cleaner.
- “As well as” vs. “And” – “As well as” often introduces secondary ideas.
- “Plus” vs. “Also” – “Plus” is informal and casual.
- “Not Only…But Also” – Correct structure emphasizes contrast: She not only studied hard but also aced the test
Advanced Grammar Insight: Coordination vs. Modification
Understanding why “and also” feels redundant comes down to grammar principles:
- Conjunctions (like “and”) coordinate ideas.
- Adverbs (like “also”) modify verbs.
- Using both when unnecessary violates the principle of linguistic efficiency, where each word should carry distinct meaning.
Practical Writing Rules You Can Apply Immediately
- Delete “also” when “and” already implies addition.
- Delete “and” when “also” emphasizes addition adequately.
- Keep both only for stylistic emphasis or complex sentences.
Quick Decision Guide
| Question | Yes | No |
| Does “and” already add meaning? | Remove “also” | Keep “also” |
| Is emphasis needed? | Consider “also” | Remove both |
Conclusion
In English, using “and also” is not always incorrect, but it requires careful consideration of context and sentence flow. While it can emphasize addition, overusing it may sound redundant or awkward. Often, simple alternatives like “and”, “also”, or “in addition” make sentences smoother and more natural.
Understanding the proper use of conjunctions and linking words enhances your writing clarity and spoken communication, helping you sound confident and grammatically accurate. By practicing these tips, you can avoid common mistakes and improve both your formal and informal English.
FAQs
1. Is it correct to say “and also” in a sentence?
Yes, it can be correct, but it depends on the context. Use it sparingly to avoid redundancy.
2. Can I use “and also” in formal writing?
It’s generally better to use alternatives like “in addition” or just “also” in formal writing.
3. What is the difference between “and” and “and also”?
“And” simply connects ideas, while “and also” adds extra emphasis or additional information.
4. Are there better alternatives to “and also”?
Yes, alternatives include “in addition”, “furthermore”, “moreover”, or simply “also”.
5. Does “and also” sound natural in spoken English?
In casual speech, it’s generally acceptable, but overuse can make your sentences sound awkward or redundant.
Isabella Marie is a skilled writer and English language expert who makes grammar learning simple, fun, and accessible for everyone. Through Grammar Schooling, she shares practical tips and clear explanations that help readers communicate with confidence. Her goal is to inspire learners to love the art of language and express themselves with clarity.