Can I Start A Sentence With Also

Yes, you can start a sentence with "also." While some grammar guides and style preferences once discouraged this practice, modern English usage accepts it as perfectly grammatical and often stylistically effective. Starting a sentence with "also" can provide emphasis, connect ideas smoothly, and maintain the flow of your writing. This article will delve into the nuances of using "also" at the beginning of a sentence, providing examples, discussing its stylistic implications, and comparing it with other transitional words.

Introduction

The question of whether you can start a sentence with "also" has been a topic of debate among grammar enthusiasts for years. Traditionally, some style guides frowned upon this usage, suggesting that "also" should be placed within the sentence, typically before the verb. However, contemporary grammar and usage guides recognize that beginning a sentence with "also" is not only acceptable but can sometimes be the most effective way to connect ideas and emphasize a point.

In this article, we will explore:

• The evolution of the rule against starting sentences with "also."
• Why it is now considered acceptable in modern English.
• Examples of how to use "also" effectively at the beginning of a sentence.
• The stylistic considerations for using "also" in different contexts.
• Alternatives to "also" and when they might be more appropriate.

The Evolution of the Rule

Historically, prescriptive grammar rules aimed to impose a strict structure on the English language, often based on Latin grammar conventions. The prohibition against starting a sentence with "also" stemmed from a desire to avoid perceived ambiguity and maintain a formal tone in writing. The idea was that "also" should be closely tied to the word or phrase it modifies, which typically meant placing it within the sentence.

However, language is dynamic, and usage evolves over time. As English became more widely used in diverse contexts, from academic writing to casual conversation, the rigidity of these prescriptive rules began to relax. Modern descriptive grammar, which focuses on how language is actually used rather than how it "should" be used, acknowledges the prevalence and acceptability of starting sentences with "also."

Why It Is Now Considered Acceptable

Several factors contribute to the acceptance of starting sentences with "also":

• Clarity: Starting a sentence with "also" often provides a clear and direct way to connect it to the previous sentence or idea.
• Emphasis: Placing "also" at the beginning can emphasize the additional point being made.
• Flow: It can improve the flow of writing by creating a smooth transition between sentences.
• Common Usage: It is widely used in both spoken and written English by native speakers, including professional writers and academics.

Modern grammar authorities, such as the Merriam-Webster Dictionary and the Chicago Manual of Style, recognize that starting a sentence with "also" is grammatically correct. They advise writers to use their judgment to determine if it is the most effective way to convey their intended meaning.

Examples of Effective Use

Here are several examples demonstrating how "also" can be used effectively at the beginning of a sentence:

1. Adding Information:

   • "The company reported record profits this quarter. Also, they announced a new initiative to promote employee well-being."

2. Emphasizing a Point:

   • "He is an accomplished musician and a talented writer. Also, he is a dedicated teacher who inspires his students."

3. Connecting Ideas:

   • "The research showed a correlation between exercise and mental health. Also, it highlighted the importance of a balanced diet."

4. Providing Additional Details:

   • "The project requires significant investment in technology. Also, it will need a skilled team of engineers and designers."

5. Highlighting Consequences:

   • "The new policy will reduce costs and increase efficiency. Also, it will improve employee morale by streamlining processes."

In each of these examples, "also" effectively connects the new sentence to the preceding one, adding information, emphasizing a point, or providing additional details in a clear and concise manner.

Stylistic Considerations

While starting a sentence with "also" is grammatically acceptable, it is important to consider the stylistic implications:

• Tone: Using "also" at the beginning of a sentence can create a slightly informal tone. In highly formal writing, such as academic papers or legal documents, it may be preferable to use more formal alternatives like "in addition" or "furthermore."
• Emphasis: The placement of "also" can affect the emphasis of the sentence. Starting with "also" emphasizes the connection to the previous idea, while placing it within the sentence may emphasize the specific word or phrase it modifies.
• Repetition: Overusing "also" at the beginning of sentences can make your writing sound repetitive and monotonous. Varying your sentence structure and using different transitional words can improve the overall flow and readability.
• Clarity: Ensure that the connection between the sentences is clear. If the relationship is ambiguous, it may be better to rephrase the sentence or use a different transitional word that more clearly indicates the connection.

Alternatives to "Also"

While "also" is a useful transitional word, there are many alternatives that can be used to add variety and nuance to your writing. Here are some common alternatives and when they might be more appropriate:

1. In Addition:

   • Use: For adding information in a more formal tone.
   • Example: "The report detailed the company's financial performance. In addition, it outlined strategies for future growth."

2. Furthermore:

   • Use: To introduce an additional point that supports the previous one.
   • Example: "The project is environmentally sustainable. Furthermore, it will create jobs in the local community."

3. Moreover:

   • Use: Similar to "furthermore," to add an important or emphatic point.
   • Example: "The candidate has extensive experience in the field. Moreover, she has a proven track record of success."

4. Additionally:

   • Use: To add another piece of information or argument.
   • Example: "The software is easy to use and highly customizable. Additionally, it comes with excellent customer support."

5. Besides:

   • Use: To introduce something extra or supplementary.
   • Example: "He enjoys playing the guitar and writing songs. Besides, he is an avid photographer."

6. Too:

   • Use: For adding something similar to what has already been mentioned.
   • Example: "She is fluent in English and Spanish. She speaks French, too."

7. As Well:

   • Use: Similar to "too," for adding something in agreement with the previous statement.
   • Example: "The hotel offers comfortable rooms and excellent service. It has a great location, as well."

8. Likewise:

   • Use: To indicate that something is true in both cases or situations.
   • Example: "The students were well-prepared for the exam. Likewise, the teachers had provided excellent instruction."

9. Similarly:

   • Use: To draw a comparison between two similar things or ideas.
   • Example: "The first experiment yielded positive results. Similarly, the second experiment confirmed the findings."

10. Moreover:

    • Use: To add information that reinforces a point.
    • Example: "The evidence suggests he was at the scene of the crime. Moreover, he had a strong motive."

Examples of Replacing "Also" with Alternatives

To illustrate how these alternatives can be used, let's revisit some of the earlier examples and replace "also" with a different transitional word:

1. Original: "The company reported record profits this quarter. Also, they announced a new initiative to promote employee well-being."

   • Alternative: "The company reported record profits this quarter. In addition, they announced a new initiative to promote employee well-being."

2. Original: "He is an accomplished musician and a talented writer. Also, he is a dedicated teacher who inspires his students."

   • Alternative: "He is an accomplished musician and a talented writer. Moreover, he is a dedicated teacher who inspires his students."

3. Original: "The research showed a correlation between exercise and mental health. Also, it highlighted the importance of a balanced diet."

   • Alternative: "The research showed a correlation between exercise and mental health. Additionally, it highlighted the importance of a balanced diet."

4. Original: "The project requires significant investment in technology. Also, it will need a skilled team of engineers and designers."

   • Alternative: "The project requires significant investment in technology. Furthermore, it will need a skilled team of engineers and designers."

5. Original: "The new policy will reduce costs and increase efficiency. Also, it will improve employee morale by streamlining processes."

   • Alternative: "The new policy will reduce costs and increase efficiency. Besides, it will improve employee morale by streamlining processes."

Practical Tips for Using "Also" and Its Alternatives

Here are some practical tips to help you effectively use "also" and its alternatives in your writing:

1. Vary Your Sentence Structure: Avoid starting too many sentences with "also" or any other transitional word. Mix up your sentence structure to keep your writing engaging and prevent monotony.
2. Consider Your Audience and Tone: Choose transitional words that are appropriate for your audience and the tone of your writing. Formal writing may require more formal alternatives to "also."
3. Ensure Clarity: Make sure the connection between sentences is clear, regardless of the transitional word you use. If the relationship is ambiguous, rephrase the sentence or choose a different word that more accurately reflects the connection.
4. Read Your Writing Aloud: Reading your writing aloud can help you identify awkward phrasing or overuse of certain words. It can also help you assess the flow and rhythm of your writing.
5. Use a Thesaurus: A thesaurus can be a valuable tool for finding alternatives to "also" and other common words. However, be sure to choose a word that accurately conveys your intended meaning and fits the context of your writing.
6. Edit and Revise: Take the time to edit and revise your writing. This is an opportunity to refine your word choice, improve your sentence structure, and ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and effective.
7. Understand Context: The context in which you're writing—academic, professional, creative—can influence whether starting a sentence with "also" is appropriate. Academic and professional settings might benefit from more formal alternatives.
8. Pay Attention to Rhythm: Sentence rhythm is crucial for readability. If starting a sentence with "also" makes the sentence sound choppy or disjointed, consider rephrasing it.
9. Balance Formality and Clarity: While maintaining a level of formality may be important, clarity should always be a priority. If using a more formal alternative to "also" makes the sentence convoluted or difficult to understand, "also" might be the better choice.
10. Practice Active Voice: Using an active voice can often eliminate the need for excessive transitional words. Sentences become more direct and easier to follow, reducing reliance on words like "also."

Conclusion

In conclusion, starting a sentence with "also" is grammatically acceptable in modern English and can be an effective way to add information, emphasize a point, or connect ideas. While it is important to consider the stylistic implications and avoid overuse, "also" can be a valuable tool for improving the flow and clarity of your writing. By understanding the nuances of its usage and exploring alternative transitional words, you can enhance your writing skills and communicate your ideas more effectively.