As well as – Definition & Meaning

“As well as” is a commonly used phrase in the English language that is often used to introduce an additional item or idea to a sentence. It is a versatile phrase that can be used in a variety of ways to convey different meanings and ideas. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “as well as,” its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and provide some example sentences to better understand its usage.

Definitions

“As well as” is a conjunction that is used to add an additional item or idea to a sentence. It can be used to connect two or more things that are similar or related. It is often used to indicate that something is included or in addition to something else.

Origin

The phrase “as well as” has been used in the English language since the 14th century. It is believed to have originated from the Middle English phrase “also wel als,” which meant “just as well as.” Over time, the phrase evolved to become “as well as” as we know it today.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “as well as” means “in addition to” or “along with.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “in addition to” or “and also.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “in addition to” or “and.”

Associations

“As well as” is often associated with adding additional information or items to a sentence. It can also be used to indicate that something is included or in addition to something else. It is commonly used in both spoken and written English.

Synonyms

Some synonyms for “as well as” include “in addition to,” “along with,” “and,” “also,” and “together with.”

Antonyms

There are no direct antonyms for “as well as,” but some phrases that could be used in its place include “instead of,” “excluding,” or “without.”

The same root words

The words “well” and “as” are the root words of “as well as.” “Well” means in a good or satisfactory way, while “as” is a conjunction used to indicate similarity or equality.

Example Sentences

1. “I need to pick up some groceries as well as some cleaning supplies.”
2. “She is a talented musician as well as a skilled writer.”
3. “The new project will require additional staff as well as more funding.”
4. “He is fluent in Spanish as well as French.”
5. “The restaurant serves Italian cuisine as well as seafood.”