Additionally usually opens a sentence and signals that one more fact follows. In addition works in the same spot, also sits inside the clause, and moreover or furthermore belong in formal argument. Position is what limits the swap: too normally comes at the end of a clause, and to boot only works after the point has been made.
Best synonyms for additionally
Adding a point at the start of a sentence
- in addition
- moreover
- furthermore
- besides
- what's more
- on top of that
- plus
Adding an extra item within a clause
- also
- as well
- too
- to boot
Which synonym should you use?
| If you mean… | Best alternatives |
|---|---|
| A formal report adding a point | moreover, furthermore, in addition |
| An everyday email adding a detail | also, in addition |
| An extra item at the end | too, as well |
| A reason that outweighs the first | besides, what's more |
| Casual speech, piling on more | on top of that, plus |
| A playful bonus after the main point | to boot |
| An extra role or duty for someone | also, as well |
Additionally synonyms explained
1. In addition
The most flexible stand-in: it opens a sentence, sits after a comma mid-sentence, and becomes a preposition when followed by to and a noun phrase. Additionally cannot do that last job, so a noun phrase needs in addition to, not additionally to.
Best used when: You want a neutral, businesslike connector that fits reports and emails alike.
Correct: In addition, the contractor must carry liability insurance.
Incorrect: Additionally to the fee, guests pay a cleaning deposit.
Additionally is not followed by to and a noun. Use in addition to instead: In addition to the fee, guests pay a cleaning deposit.
2. Also
The plainest option, and it prefers the middle of the clause: before the main verb or after be. It can open a sentence, but in formal writing in addition or moreover reads steadier.
Best used when: You are adding a simple fact and want no ceremony.
Correct: She also coordinates the volunteer schedule.
Incorrect: She coordinates also the volunteer schedule.
Also does not go between a verb and its object. Put it before the main verb, as in the first sentence.
3. Moreover
Reserve it for a point that strengthens the case you are already making; in a loose list of facts it sounds overblown. It is heavier than in addition and sounds stiff in casual messages.
Best used when: A second reason supports the first in an essay or formal report.
The route is shorter; moreover, it avoids the toll bridge.
4. Furthermore
In a step-by-step argument, it moves the reader on to the next reason in the sequence. Compared with moreover, it stresses continuation more than extra weight.
Best used when: You are stacking numbered or sequential points in formal writing.
The study was small. Furthermore, it had no control group.
5. Besides
Brings in a reason that settles the matter, often a little dismissively. It is stronger than also and, unlike moreover, at home in conversation.
Best used when: You have given one reason and add a clincher in conversation or informal writing.
I don't want to drive tonight. Besides, the roads are icy.
6. Too
Its usual place is the end of a clause, though it can also follow the subject, set off by commas. It cannot open a sentence the way additionally does, and it is a little lighter than as well.
Best used when: You are adding one more item to a statement you just made.
The hotel has a pool, too.
7. As well
Sits at the end of a clause and sounds slightly more formal than too. Do not confuse it with as well as, which joins two items and works like and.
Best used when: You want a closing add-on that sounds tidy in professional writing.
The package includes a charger as well.
8. Plus
In relaxed speech and messages, it opens a sentence with a perk or extra advantage, almost always something favorable. It is the casual counterpart of in addition and out of place in formal reports.
Best used when: You are listing selling points in a relaxed message or conversation.
The apartment is near the train. Plus, the rent includes utilities.
9. What's more
Unlike besides, which closes an argument, what's more raises the stakes: the new point tops the previous one, with spoken emphasis. A comma usually follows it, and it suits speeches and conversational essays more than technical writing.
Best used when: The new fact is more striking than the one before it.
The tickets were cheap, and what's more, the seats were great.
10. On top of that
Piles on another item and often signals a growing burden, so it fits complaints better than neutral lists. It is looser than besides because it does not claim to settle anything.
Best used when: A second problem or favor lands on top of the first.
The flight was delayed, and on top of that, our luggage was lost.
11. To boot
Unlike additionally, it can never open a sentence: it trails the main point and adds a bonus, usually a quality or advantage. It has a playful, old-fashioned ring.
Best used when: You are praising someone and want a light flourish at the end.
He's a gifted pianist and a fine cook to boot.
FAQ
Does additionally need a comma?
When it opens a sentence, yes: put a comma after it. The same goes for moreover, furthermore and in addition.
Is besides the same as beside?
No. Beside is a preposition meaning next to, as in sitting beside someone. Besides is the connector that adds a reason, or a preposition meaning apart from.
Can I just delete additionally?
Often you can. A new sentence that adds a fact already reads as an addition, so keep a connector only when the link between the two points would otherwise be unclear.