Aswell or As Well? Which is Correct?
In English, many words and phrases are often confused due to their similar appearance or sound. One common point of confusion is between aswell and as well. While both may seem like valid words at first glance, only one is correct in standard English: as well. The incorrect form, aswell, is a frequent mistake that many people make when writing informally, but it does not exist as a single word in the English language.
In this article, we’ll clarify the difference between as well and aswell, explain why as well is the correct form, and provide examples of how to use as well in sentences. We’ll also include practice questions with answers to help reinforce your understanding.
Table of Contents
The Correct Phrase: As Well
The correct usage is as well, which is a two-word phrase that means “in addition to” or “also.” This phrase is used to add information or show that something is included in a list or group.
Definition of As Well:
- Meaning: In addition; also.
- Part of Speech: Adverbial phrase.
- Usage: Used to indicate that something is included in addition to something else, or to show that two things are true simultaneously.
Example Sentences:
- I’ll have a coffee, and a muffin as well.
- She’s coming to the party, and her brother is invited as well.
- The project was completed on time and under budget, which was a pleasant surprise as well.
- Not only did he pass the exam, but he received a scholarship as well.
- The new software is compatible with Windows and macOS as well.
In each of these examples, as well is used to add something extra to the sentence, similar to how we use the word “also.”
Why As Well Is Correct
The phrase as well is composed of two separate words: as and well. When used together, they form a phrase that means “in addition” or “also.” In formal and informal English, as well is always written as two words.
Breakdown of As Well:
- As: A conjunction or preposition used in comparisons or to indicate addition.
- Well: An adverb that means “in a good or satisfactory way.”
When these two words are combined, they form a phrase that means something is being added to an existing point or idea.
Synonyms for As Well:
- Also
- Too
- Additionally
- Moreover
- Furthermore
These synonyms can often be used interchangeably with as well depending on the context.
Why Aswell Is Incorrect
Aswell is not a valid word in standard English. The mistake likely arises because as well is often spoken quickly, leading some people to think it’s a single word. This is a common error, particularly in informal writing. However, in all forms of English, aswell is incorrect and should always be written as two words, as well.
Using aswell in place of as well is considered a spelling error and can make your writing appear informal or unprofessional.
Incorrect Example:
- She’s going to the meeting, and her assistant is coming aswell.
(Aswell is incorrect here; it should be as well.)
Correct Example:
- She’s going to the meeting, and her assistant is coming as well.
(As well is the correct form.)
Common Uses of As Well
The phrase as well is versatile and can be used in many different contexts. Let’s explore some common ways to use as well in sentences.
1. Adding Information
As well is often used to add additional information to a sentence. It functions similarly to the word “also” or “too.”
Example:
- I’ll take care of the paperwork, and I’ll send the email as well.
In this sentence, as well is used to indicate that sending the email is an additional task to taking care of the paperwork.
2. Agreeing or Supporting a Statement
As well can be used to show agreement or to reinforce a previous statement.
Example:
- Not only does she speak French fluently, but she can write in it as well.
Here, as well is used to emphasize that the person can both speak and write in French.
3. Making Comparisons
While less common, as well can sometimes be used in comparisons to show that two things are similar.
Example:
- He performs his duties as well as anyone else in the department.
In this context, as well is part of a comparison between the person and others in the department.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Writing Aswell Instead of As Well
The most common mistake people make is combining the two words as and well into a single word, aswell. The key to avoiding this mistake is to remember that as well is always written as two words.
Incorrect:
- I’ll bring the documents aswell.
Correct:
- I’ll bring the documents as well.
2. Confusing As Well with Too
While as well and too are often used interchangeably, there are instances where one may sound more natural than the other. Usually, too is placed at the end of a sentence, while as well can be more flexible in its placement.
Example:
- She’s coming to the party, too.
(This sounds more natural with too.) - She’s coming to the party as well.
(This works, but too might be preferred in casual conversation.)
3. Using As Well in Formal Writing
In formal writing, as well is often preferred over too. It sounds slightly more formal and can be a good choice when writing essays, reports, or professional emails.
How to Remember the Correct Usage
Here are some tips to help you remember that as well is the correct form:
1. Break It Down
Remember that as well is made up of two separate words: as and well. If you try to combine them into aswell, you’re making a spelling error. Think of it as adding one thing to another: first as, then well.
2. Compare It to Similar Phrases
Think of other two-word phrases in English that follow similar rules, such as:
- In addition
- As much
- As soon
Just like these phrases, as well is always written as two words.
3. Check the Dictionary
If you’re ever unsure whether to write aswell or as well, consult a dictionary. You’ll find that as well is the only correct form, while aswell is not recognized as a valid word.
Practice Questions: Aswell or As Well?
Let’s test your understanding with the following practice questions. Choose the correct form to complete each sentence.
Question 1:
Which form is correct in the following sentence?
- I’ll bring the snacks, and I’ll bring drinks _.
a) aswell
b) as well
Answer:
b) as well
Explanation: The correct form is as well, which means “in addition.”
Question 2:
Fill in the blank with the correct form:
- She accepted the job offer, and she received a raise _.
Answer:
She accepted the job offer, and she received a raise as well.
Explanation: As well is the correct form, meaning “also.”
Question 3:
True or False:
Aswell is an acceptable alternative spelling of as well.
Answer:
False
Explanation: Aswell is not a valid word. The correct form is always as well.
Question 4:
Which sentence is correct?
a) I’m going to the movies aswell.
b) I’m going to the movies as well.
Answer:
*b) I’m going to the movies as well.
Explanation: As well is the correct phrase, and aswell is incorrect.
Question 5:
Fill in the blank:
- He plays the guitar and sings _.
Answer:
He plays the guitar and sings as well.
Explanation: As well is the correct form to indicate that he does both activities.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct form is as well, a two-word phrase that means “in addition” or “also.” The incorrect spelling aswell is a frequent mistake, but it is not recognized as a valid word in English. As well is used to add information, show agreement, or make comparisons. It’s versatile and can be used in both formal and informal writing.
By remembering that as well is always two words and following the tips provided in this article, you can avoid the common mistake of writing aswell. With practice, you’ll confidently use as well in the correct context, both in writing and speech.
