When it comes to mastering English grammar, nuances can make a significant difference. One such subtlety involves the phrases “also has” and “has also.”
Though they may seem similar, understanding their correct usage can enhance your communication skills.
The correct usage depends on the emphasis: “also has” adds information neutrally, while “has also” emphasizes the additional detail.
This blog post will delve into these two phrases, providing you with comprehensive insights and practical examples to help you use them effectively.
Decoding the Correct Use of “Also Has” and “Has Also”
Many English learners and writers grapple with the choice between “also has” and “has also.” While both phrases aim to add information, their placement and emphasis in a sentence can subtly alter the meaning or tone.
By examining these phrases closely, you’ll gain clarity on when and how to use them to convey your message precisely.
The Fundamentals of “Has” in English Grammar
Definition and Function of “Has”
The verb “has” is the third-person singular form of “have.” It plays a crucial role in English grammar, serving both as a main verb and an auxiliary verb.
- As a Main Verb: It denotes possession or characteristics.
- Example: “She has a beautiful garden.”
- As an Auxiliary Verb: It helps form the present perfect tense, showing actions that have been completed at some point in the past but are relevant to the present.
- Example: “He has completed his assignment.”
Auxiliary vs. Main Verbs
Understanding the distinction between auxiliary and main verbs is essential for grasping the nuances of “has.”
- Main Verbs: Express primary actions or states.
- Example: “They have a new car.”
- Auxiliary Verbs: Assist in forming different tenses or voices.
- Example: “She has been working here for five years.”
Understanding the Versatility of the Verb “Has”
The verb “has” is versatile and used in various contexts. Recognizing its different functions can help you use “also has” and “has also” more effectively.
Uses in Different Contexts
- Possession and Characteristics:
- Main Verb: “He has a collection of rare books.”
- Present Perfect Tense:
- Auxiliary Verb: “She has visited Paris several times.”
Examples:
- Main Verb Example: “He has a large family.”
- Auxiliary Verb Example: “They have been traveling across Europe.”
Exploring the Phrase “Also Has” in Context
Definition and Use
The phrase “also has” is used when you want to add information to something previously mentioned. It’s typically employed to include additional details in a straightforward manner.
Examples:
- “The company offers excellent health benefits and also has flexible working hours.”
- “Her novel is not only a gripping story but also has profound philosophical themes.”
In these sentences, “also has” introduces new information that complements the main point.
Dissecting the Usage of “Has Also” With Examples
Definition and Use
“Has also” emphasizes the addition of information in a way that highlights its significance. It’s often used to underscore an important detail or to add a point of emphasis.
Examples:
- “The new software update has improved functionality and has also increased user satisfaction.”
- “He has completed his degree and has also started a successful business.”
Here, “has also” brings attention to the added details, making them stand out more.
Comparing “Also Has” and “Has Also” in Practical Situations
Tone and Emphasis
Choosing between “also has” and “has also” can subtly change the tone of your writing or speech.
- “Also Has”: Generally neutral, it smoothly integrates additional information.
- Example: “The book is informative and also has engaging illustrations.”
- “Has Also”: Adds emphasis, making the additional information more prominent.
- Example: “The book is informative and has also been praised for its engaging illustrations.”
Examples:
- Neutral Addition with “Also Has”:
- “The project includes detailed graphics and also has an interactive component.”
- Emphasized Addition with “Has Also”:
- “The project includes detailed graphics and has also won several awards for innovation.”
When to Prefer One Over the Other
Contextual Preferences
- Use “Also Has”: When adding straightforward information that doesn’t need additional emphasis.
- Example: “The hotel offers complimentary breakfast and also has a gym.”
- Use “Has Also”: When you want to highlight the additional information, giving it more weight.
- Example: “The hotel offers complimentary breakfast and has also been recognized for its excellent service.”
Examples:
- Straightforward Information:
- “The restaurant serves delicious food and also has a variety of desserts.”
- Highlighted Information:
- “The restaurant serves delicious food and has also been featured in several top food magazines.”
Subtle Differences in Tone and Meaning
Impact on Reader Perception
The choice between “also has” and “has also” can influence how readers perceive the information.
- “Also Has”: Implies a simple addition to existing information.
- Example: “The app is user-friendly and also has a built-in calendar.”
- “Has Also”: Implies a significant addition that emphasizes the importance of the new information.
- Example: “The app is user-friendly and has also received numerous awards for innovation.”
Usage Trends: “Also Has” versus “Has Also” According to Google Ngram Viewer
Analysis of Usage Trends
The Google Ngram Viewer provides insights into how frequently phrases like “also has” and “has also” are used in published books over time.
- Trends Overview:
- “Also Has”: Frequently used for straightforward additional information.
- “Has Also”: More prevalent in contexts where emphasis is required.
Findings from Google Ngram Viewer
- “Also Has”: Appears consistently across various contexts.
- “Has Also”: Shows a rising trend in usage for emphasis in recent years.
Table: Frequency Comparison
Phrase | Frequency (Google Ngram Viewer) | Context Usage |
Also Has | High | Neutral addition |
Has Also | Moderate to High | Emphasized addition |
Final Thoughts on Mastering “Also Has” and “Has Also”
Understanding when to use “also has” versus “has also” can enhance your writing and communication.
Summary of Key Points
- “Also Has”: Use it for straightforward additional information.
- “Has Also”: Employ it when you want to emphasize the additional detail.
Practical Tips
- Read Aloud: Helps to determine which phrase sounds more natural in your context.
- Consider Emphasis: Choose based on whether you need to highlight the additional information.
Encouragement to Practice
To get comfortable with these phrases, practice using them in different sentences. Write short paragraphs incorporating “also has” and “has also” to see how they affect the tone and clarity of your writing.
By applying these insights, you’ll be able to use “also has” and “has also” effectively, ensuring your writing is both precise and engaging.
As an experienced English teacher, I’m Jessica Thompson, here to make grammar and vocabulary simple and fun. Join me on TalkSpeaker as we explore the language together, one lesson at a time!