Can You Start A Sentence With As Well As

Can You Start a Sentence with "As Well As"? A Comprehensive Guide to Grammatical Correctness and Style

This article explores the often-debated question: can you start a sentence with "as well as"? The short answer is yes, but with some important caveats regarding style and clarity. While grammatically permissible, beginning a sentence with this phrase can sometimes lead to awkward phrasing or ambiguity. Let's delve into the nuances of using "as well as" to improve your writing.

Understanding the Grammar:

"As well as" is a conjunction, connecting two elements of equal grammatical rank. Traditionally, conjunctions are seen as joining words or phrases within a sentence, not initiating them. However, modern grammar is more flexible. The key is to ensure the sentence remains clear, concise, and grammatically sound. Think of it as a stylistic choice rather than a hard grammatical rule.

When Starting a Sentence with "As Well As" Works Well:

• Emphasis and Parallel Structure: Beginning a sentence with "As well as" can strategically emphasize the element following it. This is particularly effective when creating parallel structures.

  Example: "As well as contributing financially, she volunteered countless hours to the charity." Here, "As well as" highlights the volunteer work, providing a balanced presentation of her contributions.

• Smooth Transitions: Used carefully, "as well as" can provide a smooth transition between ideas, effectively linking sentences and creating a flowing narrative.

  Example: "The report detailed the financial losses. As well as this, it highlighted significant operational inefficiencies." This avoids abrupt shifts in topic.

• Avoiding Repetition: Sometimes, starting a sentence with "as well as" prevents repetition of a phrase or clause.

  Example: Instead of: "The company improved its customer service. The company also invested in new technology." You could write: "The company improved its customer service. As well as this, it invested in new technology."

When to Avoid Starting a Sentence with "As Well As":

• Awkward Phrasing: Overuse can lead to clunky sentences. If the phrase creates a sentence that feels unnatural or difficult to read, it's best to restructure it.

• Ambiguity: The placement of "as well as" can sometimes create ambiguity if the sentence structure is not carefully considered. Ensure the intended meaning is perfectly clear.

• Informal Writing: While grammatically correct, starting sentences with "as well as" might be considered less formal in certain contexts. Consider your target audience and the overall tone of your writing.

Alternative Constructions:

Often, there are more elegant ways to express the same idea. Consider these alternatives:

• In addition to...: Offers a more formal and less ambiguous phrasing.
• Also...: A simpler, more direct alternative.
• Furthermore...: Suitable for more formal writing.
• Besides...: A more informal alternative.

Conclusion:

While starting a sentence with "as well as" isn't grammatically incorrect, it's crucial to prioritize clarity and style. Use it judiciously, ensuring it enhances your writing rather than hindering it. Consider alternative constructions when the sentence feels awkward or ambiguous. Ultimately, the best approach is to prioritize effective communication and choose the phrasing that best suits your context. Remember to always proofread your work carefully to ensure grammatical accuracy and stylistic consistency.