If you are learning English, you have likely seen the phrase as well at the end of a sentence. It simply means also or too. You use it to add another idea, person, or thing to something you have already said. For example, “I like coffee, and I like tea as well.” This guide will show you exactly how to use as well naturally in daily English sentences, emails, and conversations, with clear examples and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick Answer: How to Use “As Well”
Place as well at the end of a sentence or clause. It means “in addition” or “also.” Do not put it in the middle of a sentence like you would with “also.” Use it in both formal and informal situations, but it is slightly more common in British English than American English. In American English, people often say “too” instead.
Formal and Informal Tone
As well works in both formal and informal contexts. In a formal email, you might write: “Please include the report as well.” In a casual conversation, you can say: “I’m bringing snacks as well.” The tone is neutral and polite, making it a safe choice for learners.
Email Context
In professional emails, as well sounds natural and courteous. Example: “Thank you for your feedback. I have addressed the budget concerns as well.” It adds information without sounding abrupt.
Conversation Context
In everyday talk, as well is common. Example: “She’s coming to the party as well.” It feels friendly and clear.
Comparison: As Well vs. Also vs. Too
| Word/Phrase | Position in Sentence | Example | Formality |
|---|---|---|---|
| As well | End of sentence or clause | I enjoy reading as well. | Neutral (formal and informal) |
| Also | Before the main verb, or at the start of a sentence | I also enjoy reading. / Also, I enjoy reading. | Neutral |
| Too | End of sentence or clause | I enjoy reading too. | Informal (common in American English) |
Use as well when you want a slightly more formal or written tone, but it is still fine in conversation.
Natural Examples of “As Well” in Sentences
Here are 10 natural examples you can use in your own writing and speaking:
- She bought a new dress, and she got new shoes as well.
- We visited the museum and the park as well.
- He speaks French and Spanish as well.
- Please bring your notebook and your textbook as well.
- I finished my homework and cleaned my room as well.
- The movie was funny and touching as well.
- They invited John and his sister as well.
- You need to submit the form and the payment as well.
- She is a talented singer and a great dancer as well.
- We can meet on Monday or Tuesday as well.
Common Mistakes with “As Well”
Learners often make these errors. Avoid them to sound more natural.
Mistake 1: Putting “as well” in the middle of a sentence
Incorrect: I as well like pizza.
Correct: I like pizza as well.
Explanation: “As well” always goes at the end. Use “also” if you want to put it before the verb.
Mistake 2: Using “as well as” incorrectly
Incorrect: She sings as well as dances.
Correct: She sings and dances as well. OR She sings as well as she dances.
Explanation: “As well as” is a different phrase that means “in addition to” or is used for comparison. For example: “He is tall as well as strong.” Do not confuse it with the simple “as well” at the end.
Mistake 3: Forgetting the comma before “as well” in some cases
In formal writing, you can add a comma before “as well” when it adds extra information. Example: “I have completed the report, as well.” In informal writing, it is optional.
Better Alternatives and When to Use Them
Sometimes you might want a different word. Here are alternatives and their best uses:
- Also: Use when you want to place the word earlier in the sentence. Example: “I also enjoy hiking.”
- Too: Use in casual conversation, especially in American English. Example: “I like it too.”
- In addition: Use in very formal writing, such as business reports. Example: “In addition, we need to review the budget.”
- Furthermore: Use in academic or formal essays. Example: “Furthermore, the data supports this claim.”
Stick with as well when you want a simple, polite, and clear addition at the end of a sentence.
Mini Practice: 4 Questions with Answers
Test yourself. Rewrite each sentence using as well correctly.
- Question: She likes cats. She also likes dogs.
Answer: She likes cats, and she likes dogs as well. - Question: He can swim. He can also dive.
Answer: He can swim and dive as well. - Question: We need milk. We also need bread.
Answer: We need milk and bread as well. - Question: I finished my work. I also helped my colleague.
Answer: I finished my work and helped my colleague as well.
FAQ: Common Questions About “As Well”
1. Can I start a sentence with “as well”?
No. “As well” is not used at the beginning of a sentence. Use “also” or “in addition” instead. Example: “Also, I need to buy milk.” Not: “As well, I need to buy milk.”
2. Is “as well” formal or informal?
It is neutral. You can use it in both formal emails and casual conversations. It is slightly more formal than “too” but less formal than “in addition.”
3. What is the difference between “as well” and “as well as”?
“As well” means “also” and goes at the end of a sentence. “As well as” means “in addition to” and is followed by a noun or verb. Example: “She likes cats as well as dogs.” (She likes both.)
4. Can I use “as well” in negative sentences?
Yes, but it is less common. In negative sentences, use “either” instead. Example: “I don’t like coffee, and I don’t like tea either.” Not: “I don’t like tea as well.” However, in some informal contexts, you might hear it, but it is better to use “either” for negatives.
Final Tips for Learners
To master as well, practice adding it to the end of your sentences when you want to say “also.” Read the examples aloud. Write your own sentences about your daily life. For example: “I studied math, and I studied English as well.” Over time, it will feel natural. For more help with everyday phrases, explore our Daily English Sentences category. If you have questions about other common phrases, check our FAQ or read our Editorial Policy to understand how we create these guides.
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