I’ve worked with many writers over the years, and one thing I often reflect on is whether the phrase “and also” really makes writing stronger – or just unnecessarily redundant. It usually pops up in moments when people want to emphasize an addition, offering that familiar double punch of meaning. While it can feel effective, it’s important to ask: is it really necessary? A good sentence needs clarity, style, and direction. If we pile on too much, we risk muddling our message. That’s why a solid understanding of grammar is so crucial – it gives us the tools to decide whether to repeat or restrain. A clear guide helps us explore when repetition works, and when it should be ditched for sharper communication.
In my editing work, I’ve seen how this phrase can both elevate and confuse. A comprehensive view reveals that “and also” is absolutely acceptable – but only sometimes, and only with intentional use. If you’re aiming to achieve a natural flow and smooth tone, knowing when to untangle that extra layer is key. These little choices matter, especially when the debates around grammar can be more complex than they look. The language we choose to shape our sentences doesn’t just inform – it stirs thought, meaning, and emotion. Every line we write becomes a mirror of our style, and the simplest decisions – like whether to use “and also” – can echo through the rhythm and power of your prose.
Is “And Also” Grammatically Correct? Yes – But Context Is Everything
Let’s settle the main question: Yes, you can say “and also.” It’s grammatically correct.
According to Merriam-Webster: “And also” is a perfectly acceptable phrase, especially when the writer intends emphasis or rhythmic layering.
But that doesn’t mean it’s always a good idea.
So Why Does It Feel Redundant?
Because both words signal addition. When stacked, they can sound wordy or clunky, particularly in tight or formal writing.
“He works hard and also stays late.” vs. “He works hard and stays late.”
In many cases, “also” can feel like unnecessary padding.
Redundancy or Reinforcement? The Case for “And Also”
While “and also” might seem like grammatical bloat, it can actually serve a purpose when used wisely.
When Redundancy Has Value
Sometimes, repetition = reinforcement. In these cases, using both “and” and “also” adds a rhetorical or emotional punch.
Examples Where It Works:
- “She’s not just talented – she’s humble and also incredibly hardworking.”
- “They improved productivity and also reduced waste by 40%.”
In both cases, the “also” adds an emphatic lift to the sentence.
The Role of Emphasis in English Sentences
The placement of “also” in your sentence isn’t arbitrary – it can shift the tone and subtly change the focus.
mar – and the nuance – behind this commonly misunderstood phrase.
Why “And Also” Bothers Grammar Nerds (And Why It Matters to You)
The phrase “and also” often makes writers and editors wince because it feels like you’re saying the same thing twice. After all, both “and” and “also” indicate addition – so why use both?
But language isn’t just about logic – it’s also about tone, rhythm, and emphasis. That’s where the real decision-making begins.
Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Building Blocks: “And” vs. “Also”
Before diving into whether you can say “and also”, it’s vital to understand what these words do.
What Does “And” Do?
- Type: Coordinating conjunction
- Function: Connects words, phrases, or clauses of equal grammatical weight
- Example: She plays guitar and sings.
What Does “Also” Do?
- Type: Adverb
- Function: Indicates addition or inclusion, often used to add information or stress a second point
- Example: She also sings.
Key Differences
| Word | Part of Speech | Function | Position in Sentence |
| And | Conjunction | Joins equal grammatical units | Between joined elements |
| Also | Adverb | Adds or emphasizes another element | More flexible (start, middle, or end) |
They’re not the same part of speech. That’s why using them together isn’t technically wrong – but it does create a bit of a stylistic conundrum.
Where You Place “Also” Matters:
Position
Effect
Example
Beginning
Soft emphasis
Also, we need to address the budget.
Middle
Balanced addition
She also volunteers on weekends.
After “and”
Strong reinforcement
He works late and also handles reports.
Use “also” after “and” when you want to build momentum or highlight a secondary point without diminishing the first.
When You Should Avoid “And Also”
1. In Formal Writing
In essays, academic papers, or professional reports, tight, lean language is king. “And also” is usually flagged as redundant in these settings.
❌ The study focused on methodology and also participant feedback. ✅ The study focused on methodology and participant feedback.
2. In Technical Writing
Clarity and brevity matter in manuals, instructions, or scientific documentation. “And also” can clutter the message.
3. When It’s Obvious
If the sentence works perfectly with just “and” or just “also,” there’s no need to use both.
❌ The team launched the product and also gathered feedback. ✅ The team launched the product and gathered feedback.
When “And Also” Works Beautifully: Nuanced Contexts
There are times when “and also” adds a sense of pacing, emotional weight, or rhetorical flair.
1. Speechwriting & Oratory
- “We stand for freedom, and also for dignity.”
- Adds rhythm and emphasis.
2. Creative Writing
- “She was exhausted, and also strangely energized.”
- Creates contrast or nuance.
3. Marketing & Copywriting
- “Fast, effective, and also eco-friendly.”
- Adds punch and rhythmic balance.
Sometimes, the redundancy serves a stylistic purpose – especially when cadence and emphasis matter more than brevity.
Alternatives to “And Also” That Add Precision and Variety
Why use “and also” when you’ve got so many stronger alternatives?
Better Substitutes Based on Tone:
| Situation | Instead of “And Also” Use | Example |
| Formal writing | Moreover / In addition | The proposal saves money. Moreover, it increases efficiency. |
| Business tone | Furthermore / As well | The app is secure. It’s fast as well. |
| Conversational | Plus / On top of that | We’re going to the beach, plus we’re staying overnight. |
| Emphatic | Not only… but also | Not only did he arrive early, but he also brought coffee. |
Use These Expressions Instead:
- In addition
- Furthermore
- Likewise
- As well
- Too
- Not only… but also…
How to Choose: “And,” “Also,” or Both? A Decision Table
Here’s a quick decision-making guide:
| Need | Best Choice | Example |
| Join equal parts | And | She teaches and writes. |
| Add something without coordination | Also | She teaches. She also writes. |
| Emphasize added value or emotion | And also | She teaches and also inspires. |
| Add formality or logical flow | In addition / Furthermore | The service is free. In addition, it’s customizable. |
How to Revise Sentences to Avoid Redundancy Without Losing Impact
Use these simple strategies to keep your sentences strong, clear, and engaging:
1. Read Aloud
Does the sentence sound natural or bloated? If it stumbles, simplify.
2. Remove “Also” and Re-read
If the sentence still works without “also,” you may not need it.
3. Choose Stronger Alternatives
Swap “also” for a more precise connector if you’re layering ideas.
Examples from Real Writing: Fixes & Fumbles
Awkward Sentence:
He’s a manager and also oversees hiring and training.
✅ Fix:
He’s a manager who oversees hiring and training. He manages operations and oversees hiring.
Clunky Sentence:
The client approved the design and also provided feedback.
✅ Fix:
The client approved the design and provided feedback. In addition to approving the design, the client shared feedback.
Common Myths About “And Also” – Debunked
“It’s always wrong.”
❌ False. It’s grammatically correct – just not always the best style choice.
“It’s redundant 100% of the time.”
❌ Not true. It can add emphasis and rhythm.
“It’s only used by bad writers.”
❌ Again, false. Even seasoned writers use “and also” for effect. The trick is intention.
Tips for ESL Learners: Navigating “And Also” in Natural English
English learners often find “and also” confusing because it translates directly from many other languages – where redundancy is more acceptable.
Tips:
- Avoid using “and also” in every sentence.
- Read native-level writing (news, essays, fiction) to see how addition is expressed.
- Practice rephrasing: He studies and also plays sports. ✅ → He studies and plays sports. ✅ → He studies. He also plays sports.
Quick Reference Table: Do’s and Don’ts of “And Also”
| Rule | Do ✅ | Don’t ❌ |
| Use in speech or creative writing | And also, it’s beautiful. | He runs fast and also. |
| In academic/formal writing | Moreover, the results were conclusive. | And also the data shows… |
| For rhythm/emphasis | He’s smart and also kind. | He is smart and also is kind. |
| When concise is better | She cooks and cleans. | She cooks and also cleans. (if “also” adds no value) |
Final Thoughts
The phrase “and also” is grammatically correct, but using it effectively requires a keen sense of style, clarity, and context. While it’s not technically wrong, it can sound redundant or clunky if used carelessly, since both “and” and “also” serve similar purposes – to add or connect information.
Good grammar isn’t about following rigid rules – it’s about communicating effectively and elegantly. So yes, you can say “and also” – just be sure it works in your sentence the way you intend it to.
FAQs
Is “and also” grammatically correct?
Yes, “and also” is grammatically correct. However, it can be redundant since both words express addition. Use it for emphasis or rhythm, but not when clarity and conciseness are your priorities.
Can I use “and also” in formal writing?
You can, but it’s often better to choose one – either “and” or “also.” In formal writing, clarity and brevity are essential, so avoid unnecessary repetition unless used for stylistic reasons.
Is “and also” more common in speech or writing?
“And also” is more commonly used in spoken English, where emphasis and rhythm matter more. In writing, especially academic or professional, it’s usually more polished to use one connector.
What’s a better alternative to “and also”?
Depending on the context, alternatives include “and,” “as well,” “too,” or “in addition.” For example: “He speaks French and Spanish” or “He speaks French in addition to Spanish.”
Can I start a sentence with “And also”?
Yes, but it’s stylistic. Starting a sentence with “And also” adds emphasis or continuity, especially in conversational or creative writing. However, in formal contexts, it may seem informal or repetitive.
