How To Say Also In Shakespearean Language

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Post on Apr 08, 2025

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How to Say "Also" in Shakespearean Language: A Comprehensive Guide to Conjunctive Variety

Shakespearean English, with its rich tapestry of vocabulary and nuanced grammar, offers a plethora of ways to express the simple conjunction "also." A direct translation rarely captures the full essence of the original; instead, the appropriate choice depends heavily on context, emphasis, and the desired stylistic effect. This guide explores the diverse options available, providing examples and demonstrating how to select the most effective synonym for "also" in your own Shakespearean writing.

I. Direct Equivalents and Close Approximations:

While a direct "also" doesn't exist, several words and phrases function similarly, albeit with subtle differences in meaning and formality:

• Likewise: This is perhaps the closest direct equivalent. It implies similarity or parallelism. "He went to the market; likewise, she purchased bread."

• Furthermore: This suggests addition to a preceding point, often introducing a new argument or piece of evidence. "The King was cruel; furthermore, his reign was marked by famine."

• Moreover: Similar to "furthermore," it adds weight and significance to the preceding statement. "The play was poorly written; moreover, the actors lacked talent."

• In addition: A more formal and less poetic option, but still suitable in many contexts. "The Duke demanded tribute; in addition, he sought control of the harbor."

• Besides: This suggests something supplementary or secondary. "The jewels were stolen; besides, the royal seal was missing."

II. Expanding on the Idea with More Evocative Language:

Shakespeare's language is rarely direct; he favored descriptive phrases to enhance the impact of his writing. Here are ways to express "also" through more elaborate phrasing:

• And eke: "Eke" is an archaic word meaning "also" or "likewise." It lends a slightly older, more rustic feel to the sentence. "He loved the lady; and eke, he cherished her song."

• And withal: This phrase implies a simultaneous or accompanying action or state. "The knight drew his sword; and withal, he charged the dragon."

• To boot: This phrase means "in addition" or "as well," often suggesting a bonus or unexpected benefit. "She received gold; to boot, she gained the prince's favor."

• More than that: This phrase explicitly indicates additional information exceeding the previously stated point. "The weather was cold; more than that, it snowed relentlessly."

• Not only… but also: This construction allows for a parallel structure, emphasizing both aspects. "Not only was he brave, but also he was fiercely loyal."

III. Emphasizing the Additional Point:

Shakespeare employed various techniques to highlight the importance of the added information. Here are some examples illustrating how to emphasize an "also" clause:

• Nay, more: This phrase adds a stronger emphasis, often suggesting something even more significant than the previous point. "The King was unjust; nay, more, he was a tyrant."

• Yea, even: This emphasizes the inclusion of something unexpected or surprising. "He admired her beauty; yea, even her flaws charmed him."

• Indeed: This confirms and reinforces the preceding statement, adding weight to the subsequent information. "The journey was long; indeed, it took many weeks to complete."

• Verily: A more formal and emphatic confirmation, akin to "truly" or "indeed." "The rumors were true; verily, the prince had betrayed his kingdom."

IV. Conveying Contrast While Still Adding Information:

Sometimes, "also" can imply a contrast or unexpected addition. Here are phrases that achieve this:

• Nevertheless: This word indicates a contrasting point, but still adds to the overall meaning. "The queen was grieving; nevertheless, she maintained her composure."

• Notwithstanding: Similar to "nevertheless," it suggests a contrasting element, but maintains the additive quality. "The army was outnumbered; notwithstanding, they fought valiantly."

V. Choosing the Right Synonym for Context:

The key to effectively replacing "also" in Shakespearean English lies in understanding the nuances of each synonym and adapting it to the specific context. Consider the following examples:

• Original: "The play was funny, and also it was thought-provoking."

• Improved Options:

  • "The play was funny; moreover, it was thought-provoking." (Adds weight to the second point)
  • "The play was funny; likewise, it stimulated the mind." (Highlights the similarity between humor and thought-provoking nature)
  • "The play was funny; and withal, it prompted much discussion." (Emphasizes the simultaneous occurrence of humor and intellectual stimulation)

• Original: "He was handsome, and also rich."

• Improved Options:

  • "He was handsome; to boot, he was rich." (Implies richness as a bonus)
  • "He was handsome; yea, even his wealth was considerable." (Emphasizes the unexpected aspect of his wealth)
  • "He was handsome; furthermore, his wealth was renowned throughout the land." (Adds detail and significance to his wealth)

VI. Avoiding Overuse and Maintaining Flow:

While this guide provides a rich vocabulary of alternatives, avoid overusing these phrases. Over-reliance on archaic language can hinder readability and create an unnatural, stilted effect. Strive for a balanced approach, selecting synonyms that enhance the meaning and flow of your writing without overwhelming the reader.

VII. Practical Application: Writing a Shakespearean Sentence:

Let's take a simple sentence and rewrite it using several of the options discussed:

Original Sentence: "The king was angry, and he was also tired."

Shakespearean Alternatives:

• "The king was angered; moreover, weariness weighed heavily upon him." (Formal, emphasizes both points)
• "The king was wroth; and eke, his strength was spent." (Archaic, more poetic)
• "The king was in a foul temper; to boot, he was fatigued beyond measure." (Informal, emphasizes the added weariness as a negative)
• "The king was displeased; nay, more, he was utterly exhausted." (Emphasizes the severity of his tiredness)

This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for effectively replacing "also" in Shakespearean writing. Remember to consider the context, the desired emphasis, and the overall stylistic effect when choosing the most appropriate synonym. By mastering these techniques, you can imbue your writing with the rich and evocative language characteristic of the Elizabethan era.