You can start a sentence with “also,” and it is common to do so in formal and academic writing. Starting a sentence with “also” means the same as “and” or “furthermore.” E.g., “We went to Spain. Also, we went to Italy.”
There is often debate over which words can start a sentence, and many feel that beginning with a conjunction like “and” or “or” is incorrect.
However, there is agreement that starting a sentence with “also” is acceptable. In fact, if you were ever tempted to start a sentence with “and,” it is preferable to use “also” instead, and the meaning is the same.
- He didn’t bring his jacket. Also, he didn’t tell me he would be late.
Furthermore, in formal or academic writing, you should always use “also” rather than “and,” which eliminates the chance of somebody believing it is incorrect.
- We informed all respondents of the purpose of the survey. Also, they all agreed that we could use their information.
Do you want to discover more about how you can start a sentence with the word “also” in formal and informal writing? Keep reading to learn more and discover alternatives to starting a sentence with “also.”
Can You Start a Sentence With “Also” in Formal Writing?
Using “also” at the beginning of a sentence in formal writing is perfectly correct.
People use the word “also” to start a new sentence for splitting extremely long sentences or adding additional but related information.
For example, in this sentence, if you used a conjunction such as “and” instead of the word “also,” the sentence would be too long and may be unclear.
- The survey took into account the fact that respondents were inexperienced. Also, there was a section for them to write suggestions.
In this example, starting a new sentence with “also” is better than putting all the information in one sentence.
- He has a degree in French. Also, he is well-versed in French poetry and literature.
Although the second sentence is related to the first, it is essentially a new topic and is, therefore, better in a new sentence.
The word “also” is acceptable in formal writing, but you may prefer to use a more formal equivalent. Here are some examples of words you can use to replace “also”:
- Additionally
- Besides
- Furthermore
- Likewise
Can You Start a Sentence With “Also” in Informal Writing?
You can start a sentence with the term “also” in informal writing.
Generally speaking, the word “also” is also acceptable in formal writing, but it is considered less formal than alternatives such as “furthermore” or “additionally.”
Therefore, in informal writing, you would be more likely to use “also” than any of the more formal synonyms.
- We need to leave, or we will be late. Also, I need to stop at the bank on the way.
- We should buy some milk and bread. Also, we ought to get something for dinner tonight.