As Well As in English: Meaning, Rules, and Examples

As Well As in English is a common conjunction used to add extra information in a sentence. This guide explains its meaning, structure, and key grammar rules with clear examples. You’ll also learn how to use it correctly and avoid common mistakes made by English learners.

I. What Does As Well As in English Mean?

The phrase As well as in English is commonly used to add extra information to a sentence. It has a similar meaning to “in addition to” or “also”, and is often used as a more formal or academic alternative to those terms.

As well as functions as a subordinating conjunction. It joins two ideas together, but unlike “and,” it typically emphasizes the first part of the sentence more strongly. The second part — introduced by "as well as" — is often additional but less important information.

Examples of meaning

• She speaks French as well as Spanish.
  → She speaks both, but the focus is more on French.
• The course includes speaking as well as writing practice.
  → Writing is added information, but speaking may be the main focus.

In these examples, “as well as” acts like “and” or “also,” but with a subtle stylistic nuance: it places slightly more emphasis on the information that comes before it.

Grammar classification

• Type of word/phrase: Subordinating conjunction (sometimes considered a preposition-like structure depending on usage)
• Usage: Formal, often used in written English, academic contexts, or professional communication

1. How to Use As Well As in English Sentences?

To use as well as correctly in English, it’s important to understand its grammatical structure, verb agreement rules, and typical sentence patterns. While it may appear similar to “and,” the two expressions function differently—especially in terms of emphasis and subject–verb agreement.

Basic sentence patterns with as well as

Position in the sentence

“As well as” is typically placed in the middle of a sentence. It can link:

• Two nouns
• Two verb-ing forms
• Two clauses (less commonly used)

The part that comes after “as well as” is viewed as additional and does not change the grammatical subject of the sentence.

Example:

• The teacher, as well as the assistants, observes the class.
  In this case, the verb “observes” agrees with “the teacher.”

Subject–verb agreement rule

One of the most frequent mistakes when using “as well as” is incorrect subject–verb agreement. Learners often mistake it for “and” and incorrectly make the verb plural.

Rule: The verb must agree with the noun or subject that comes before “as well as,” not after it.

• Incorrect: My sister as well as my brothers are coming.
• Correct: My sister as well as my brothers is coming.

Even though the idea involves more than one person, the core subject is singular.

Understanding how to use as well as in English sentences not only helps you avoid common grammar mistakes but also improves your sentence variety and fluency in both writing and speaking. 

• You can compare their usage in our guide on coordinating conjunctions.

2. As well as vs Other Similar Connectors

The phrase as well as is often confused with other connectors such as and, also, and in addition to because they all serve the function of adding information. However, their grammatical behavior, formality, and usage in sentences differ. Understanding these differences is key to writing and speaking more accurately and fluently.

Key takeaway: Use as well as when you want to highlight the priority of the first item. Be aware of subject–verb agreement and tone. In formal writing, consider choosing in addition to when appropriate, and avoid misusing also as if it were a conjunction.

• You can further improve fluency by learning common English collocations.

II. Practice Using as well as in English Grammar

Mastering the phrase as well as requires more than just knowing the rules—you need hands-on practice. Below are two focused exercises to help you use as well as correctly in context.

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks with “as well as”

Complete each sentence below using “as well as” appropriately. Pay close attention to subject–verb agreement.

1. The manager, _______ his assistant, is reviewing the report.
2. Sarah enjoys hiking _______ cycling during the summer.
3. The company produces software _______ digital learning tools.
4. _______ being skilled in programming, she is also fluent in French.
5. James, _______ his teammates, was nominated for the award.

Exercise 2: Rewrite the sentences using “as well as”

Combine the two sentences using “as well as” to make a single, grammatically correct sentence.

1. Emma speaks German. She also speaks Italian.
2. The document includes charts. It includes detailed explanations.
3. This laptop has a camera. It has a touchscreen.
4. They offer English courses. They offer French courses.
5. He plays tennis. He plays badminton, too.

Answers

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