When to Use ‘in addition’ as a Linking Phrase
The linking phrase in addition is used to introduce an extra point, fact, or idea that supports or builds on what you have just said. It signals to the reader that you are adding information of equal importance, not just a minor afterthought. You should use it when you want to present another reason, example, or piece of evidence in a clear, logical sequence. It works well in formal writing, academic essays, professional emails, and structured conversations where you need to show that your argument or explanation is continuing in the same direction.
Quick Answer
Use in addition when you want to add a new, equally important point to something you have already stated. It is most suitable for formal or semi-formal contexts such as essays, reports, presentations, and professional emails. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives like also or plus often sound more natural. Place in addition at the beginning of a sentence, followed by a comma, or use it mid-sentence with commas around it.
When to Use ‘in addition’ – The Core Rule
The main purpose of in addition is to connect two ideas where the second idea strengthens or extends the first. It is not used to contrast ideas or to show cause and effect. Think of it as a signal that says, “Here is another point that matters just as much.”
Formal and Academic Writing
In essays and research papers, in addition helps you build a logical argument by layering evidence or reasons. It keeps your writing structured and professional.
Example: The study found that regular exercise improves cardiovascular health. In addition, participants reported better sleep quality and reduced stress levels.
Professional Emails and Reports
In business communication, in addition is useful when you need to list multiple benefits, requirements, or action items without sounding repetitive.
Example: We have completed the market analysis for Q3. In addition, we have prepared a draft budget for the upcoming campaign.
Conversations and Informal Contexts
While in addition is grammatically correct in speech, it can sound stiff in everyday conversation. Native speakers usually prefer also, plus, or on top of that when talking with friends or colleagues.
Example (formal speech): The new policy reduces paperwork. In addition, it speeds up approval times.
Example (natural conversation): The new policy reduces paperwork. Plus, it speeds up approval times.
Comparison: ‘in addition’ vs. Other Linking Phrases
Understanding the subtle differences between similar linking phrases will help you choose the right one for your context.
| Linking Phrase | Primary Use | Tone | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| in addition | Adding an equally important point | Formal to semi-formal | The software is user-friendly. In addition, it is affordable. |
| furthermore | Adding a point that strengthens the argument | Very formal | The policy is cost-effective. Furthermore, it aligns with our values. |
| moreover | Adding a point that is even more important | Very formal | The plan saves time. Moreover, it reduces errors significantly. |
| also | Adding a point neutrally | Neutral / informal | She speaks French. She also knows Spanish. |
| plus | Adding a point casually | Informal | We have a meeting at 10. Plus, we need to finish the report. |
Natural Examples of ‘in addition’ in Context
Seeing the phrase used in different real-life situations will help you understand its natural rhythm and placement.
Academic Essay
The Industrial Revolution transformed manufacturing processes. In addition, it led to major shifts in population distribution as people moved to urban centers for work.
Business Email
Dear Team, Please find the updated project timeline attached. In addition, I have included the revised budget estimates for your review. Best regards, Sarah.
Presentation
Our customer satisfaction scores have improved by 15% this quarter. In addition, we have seen a 10% increase in repeat purchases.
Everyday Explanation
I need to buy groceries for the week. In addition, I should pick up a birthday card for my cousin. (This is correct but sounds slightly formal; most people would say “I also need to pick up” or “Plus, I need to pick up.”)
Common Mistakes with ‘in addition’
Even advanced learners sometimes misuse this phrase. Here are the most frequent errors and how to fix them.
Mistake 1: Using ‘in addition’ to show contrast
Incorrect: The weather was terrible. In addition, we still enjoyed our hike.
Correct: The weather was terrible. However, we still enjoyed our hike.
Explanation: In addition adds a similar idea, not a contrasting one. Use however, nevertheless, or on the other hand for contrast.
Mistake 2: Overusing ‘in addition’ in a single paragraph
Incorrect: The new system is faster. In addition, it is more accurate. In addition, it costs less. In addition, it is easier to train staff.
Better: The new system is faster and more accurate. In addition, it costs less and is easier for staff training.
Explanation: Repeating in addition makes your writing sound mechanical. Vary your linking phrases or combine points.
Mistake 3: Placing ‘in addition’ incorrectly in a sentence
Incorrect: We need to order supplies. We, in addition, need to confirm the venue.
Correct: We need to order supplies. In addition, we need to confirm the venue.
Explanation: In addition usually works best at the beginning of a sentence or clause. Mid-sentence placement with commas is possible but less common and can sound awkward.
Mistake 4: Using ‘in addition’ with a list of more than two items
Incorrect: The course covers grammar, vocabulary, in addition pronunciation.
Correct: The course covers grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. In addition, it includes listening practice.
Explanation: In addition connects whole ideas or clauses, not items within a simple list. Use and or as well as for lists.
Better Alternatives to ‘in addition’
Depending on your tone and purpose, you may want to choose a different linking phrase. Here are some strong alternatives with guidance on when to use them.
For Formal Writing
- Furthermore – Use when you want to add a point that strongly supports your argument. It sounds more emphatic than in addition.
- Moreover – Use when the new point is even more important or persuasive than the previous one.
- Additionally – A direct synonym for in addition, often used in academic and business writing.
For Neutral or Semi-Formal Writing
- Also – The most common and versatile alternative. Works in almost any context except the most formal academic papers.
- As well – Often placed at the end of a sentence. Example: “She handles customer complaints as well.”
- Too – Informal and conversational. Example: “I’d like to come too.”
For Informal Conversation
- Plus – Very common in spoken English. Example: “He’s funny. Plus, he’s really smart.”
- On top of that – Emphasizes that the new point adds to an already significant situation. Example: “We lost our luggage. On top of that, our flight was delayed.”
- What’s more – Adds a point with a slightly dramatic tone. Example: “The hotel was cheap. What’s more, it had a great view.”
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Try these four questions to check if you can use in addition correctly. Answers are provided below.
Question 1
Which sentence uses in addition correctly?
A. The restaurant has excellent food. In addition, the service is slow.
B. The restaurant has excellent food. In addition, the service is friendly.
C. The restaurant has excellent food. In addition, we left early.
Question 2
Rewrite this sentence using in addition correctly: “The company offers health insurance and a retirement plan.”
Question 3
Is in addition appropriate for this sentence? “I need to finish my homework. In addition, I want to watch a movie.”
Question 4
Choose the best linking phrase for this formal email: “We have completed the audit. ______, we recommend implementing the new software immediately.”
A. Plus
B. In addition
C. On top of that
Answers
Answer 1: B. The second point (friendly service) supports and adds to the first point (excellent food). Option A contrasts, and option C introduces an unrelated idea.
Answer 2: “The company offers health insurance. In addition, it provides a retirement plan.” Or: “The company offers health insurance. In addition, a retirement plan is available.”
Answer 3: It is grammatically correct, but it sounds too formal for a casual plan. A better choice would be: “I need to finish my homework. Also, I want to watch a movie.” Or: “I need to finish my homework. Plus, I want to watch a movie.”
Answer 4: B. In addition is the most appropriate for a formal email. Plus and on top of that are too informal for professional correspondence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start a sentence with ‘in addition’?
Yes, starting a sentence with in addition is standard and correct. Always follow it with a comma. For example: “In addition, the report highlights several key trends.” This is the most common and natural position for this phrase.
Is ‘in addition’ the same as ‘in addition to’?
No, they are different. In addition is a linking phrase that connects two independent clauses or sentences. In addition to is a preposition that must be followed by a noun or noun phrase. Compare: “In addition, we offer free shipping.” (correct) vs. “In addition to free shipping, we offer discounts.” (correct). You cannot use them interchangeably.
Can I use ‘in addition’ in the middle of a sentence?
Yes, but it is less common. When used mid-sentence, place commas around it. Example: “The new policy, in addition, reduces paperwork.” However, this structure can feel slightly awkward. It is usually clearer to start a new sentence or clause with in addition.
Is ‘in addition’ too formal for emails?
It depends on the email. For professional emails to clients, managers, or colleagues, in addition is perfectly appropriate. For casual emails to friends or close coworkers, it may sound overly formal. In those cases, use also or plus instead.
Final Tips for Using ‘in addition’
To use in addition effectively, remember these three points. First, only use it when you are adding a point that is similar in importance and direction to your previous point. Second, reserve it for formal or semi-formal contexts where you want to sound structured and professional. Third, vary your linking phrases to keep your writing natural—do not rely on in addition for every new point. With practice, you will develop a feel for when this phrase fits perfectly and when a simpler alternative would be better.
For more guidance on using linking words effectively, explore our Linking Words by Purpose section. If you have questions about other transition phrases, visit our FAQ page or contact us directly. You can also review our Editorial Policy to understand how we create our guides.
